Obituary of Margaret "Audrey" Laxton

In her 100th year, Audrey, passed away very peacefully at Regina Gardens Long-Term Care Home on January 8, 2026.

She was born in Hamilton, Ontario to Fred and Carrie Eaton (nee Stokes) on September 20, 1926. Predeceased by her husband, Arnie (1999); sisters, Betty White and Bunny Lord; and best friend, Joyce Laxton. Audrey is survived by her daughter, Barbara Gadsby (Bob): her son, Jim; sister-in-law, Lois Hutchinson; and many nieces and nephews.

An adventurous woman, Audrey enlisted in the army on her 18th birthday and spent the next year assisting in the World War II effort. While stationed in Halifax, she married Arnie, her beloved husband of 54 years.

Once her children were settled in school, Audrey went to work as a medical secretary and office manager. She would go on to help write curricula for these positions at Mohawk College.

After retirement, Audrey travelled extensively, first with her husband, then later with her children and many friends.

For Audrey, the move to Long-Term Care in 2023 was a new adventure to embrace. At Regina Gardens, she continued to show a keen interest in her environment and in the well-being of her fellow residents.

Audrey was a strong, independent woman, a loyal friend and a loving wife and mother. She will be missed greatly by her children and their memories of her are now precious treasures. When she was still able to write her thoughts, Audrey left the following message: “And thanks to my family, I had a beautiful life.”

The family would like to express our sincere gratitude to Dr. Mercado and the staff of Regina Gardens Long-Term Care Home for the loving care, support and compassion they shared with Audrey during her stay.

Cremation has already taken place, and interment will happen at a later date. A Memorial Service, followed by a celebration of Audrey’s journey through life, will be held at the Church of the Nativity, 1831 King Street East, Hamilton on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Operation Smile, the Church of the Nativity, or your favourite charity.