Dorothy Helen Thayer (née Henwood)

With deep love and fond remembrance, the family of Dorothy Helen Thayer announces her peaceful passing, surrounded by family, on July 27, 2025, at the age of 94.

Born on November 1st, 1930, in Hamilton, Ontario, Dorothy was the eldest of two children born to Leslie Garnet and Hazel Olive Henwood.  After graduating from McMaster University, Dorothy began her teaching career at Haliburton County District High School in 1953. In 1954, she married fellow teacher George Harold "Bud" Thayer, pausing to raise a family before returning to teach students at both Archie Stouffer and JD Hodgson elementary schools.

Leaving Presbyterian roots behind her, Dorothy joined her husband in attending St. George's Anglican Church, which she made her lifelong home of worship.  Dorothy's strong Christian beliefs were lived out through her kindness, generosity, and the endless patience she showed in loving, raising, and giving wings to her five children. Known for her warmth and wit, Dorothy travelled the world but always returned to Haliburton, a community where she was deeply rooted and served with joy. She devoted time to the St. George's prayer shawl ministry, volunteered at 4Cs, and hosted Bible studies and creative devotions.

Over the years, Dorothy delighted in time spent with family and friends. She loved playing bridge, and was a passionate quilter, sewer and connoisseuse of fabrics. Her ferocious Scrabble game was legendary. Her home was open to all, whether friends, family, or visitors from abroad. 

Dorothy was predeceased by her husband, Bud Thayer; her brother Don Henwood (Lyn); and her sister-in-law Doris Greer (Fred). She is survived by her children: George (Judy); John (Lorraine); Marilyn (Bob); Mark (Barb); Kirk (Nancy), and her nephews: Joe, Tim, Jim, and Dave, their spouses and children. She is also remembered by her grandchildren: Justin (Anna); Laura (Terral); Stephen; Ben (Julie); Daniel; Emily (Keith); Becky; David; Sam; Sarah (Kirk); Carter; Carson; and many cherished great-grandchildren.

Visitation & Funeral Service

Friends and family are invited to call at the HALIBURTON COMMUNITY FUNERAL HOME, 13523 Hwy. #118 Haliburton, ON K0M 1S0 (705) 457-9209 for a visitation celebrating Dorothy’s life from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm & 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm on Friday, August 1, 2025. A Funeral Service will be held at ST. GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH, 617 Mountain St, Haliburton, ON K0M 1S0, on Saturday, August 2nd at 10:30 am, the service will also be livestreamed.  As an expression of sympathy, donations in Dorothy’s memory can be made to the Haliburton 4C’s, St. George’s Anglican Church, or a charity of your choice.