Obituary of Sheila Margaret Simpson
Sheila Margaret Simpson (née Macdonald) passed away July 12, 2026, after struggling for a few years with COPD. Sheila was born in Simcoe, Ontario, November 18, 1944. Sheila died on her own terms, in her home, surrounded by close family, and after saying goodbye to some of her closest friends. (And a lunch of lobster, scallops, and chocolate ice cream.)
Sheila graduated from University of Toronto (York) in 1965 and taught high-school physical education for 11 years before moving to St. Andrews to buy the Boutique la Baleine (The Whale Store) in 1977, which she ran for 49 years. Sheila often noted that as a “Saturday’s child” she was destined to work hard for her living, and so she did. Sheila’s dedication and hard work made the Whale Store a beloved St. Andrews landmark for visitors and locals alike. Even when she could no longer handle the stairs down to the store, she continued to run the store from her home on the second floor with the assistance of her capable manager and staff. She ran the store until she died.
An avid and accomplished downhill skier back in the day, Sheila enjoyed ski trips with family and friends. She also had a brief passion for skydiving, logging over 60 jumps (once landing on a gas station, oops!). Sheila was a passionate cook and her table hosted countless gatherings of friends, family, and newcomers. She also loved to travel and many of her favourite memories were the various trips with some of her closest friends. A lifelong reader, Sheila developed an addiction to UK murder-mysteries in the last few years, and enjoyed the NYT’s crosswords, wordle and spelling bee every morning. Sheila was also an ardent supporter of Minister’s Island and was a dedicated board member for nearly 20 years.
Sheila was predeceased by her parents Joan and James (Bim) Macdonald, brother Ian Macdonald (Terry Mais), and daughter Naomi. She is survived by her sister Mary (Muffy) Macdonald (Vic Istchenko), brother Bart Macdonald (Michelle), son Jamie Simpson (Tamo Loat), grandsons Caleb Nelson and Asher Simpson, niece Jenny Smith (Craig), nephews Luke Macdonald (Dani Deonarine), Andrew Berdahl (Mira), and Scott Berdahl (Bhreagh Dabbs).
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, Sheila requested a donation to your favourite local charity.
Condolences and donations may be made online at www.humphreysfh.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Humphreys Funeral Home.
