Gladrel O’Neil Johnson, born in Mayfield, Manchester, Jamaica, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2023 in Ottawa at the age of 98. His strength throughout his life and in his last days serve as a source of inspiration to all those around him.
O’Neil received his post secondary education at Mico (Teachers) Training College in Kingston, Jamaica. He later graduated with honours from McGill University and Sir George Williams University in Montreal, Quebec. He had a distinguished 35+ year career as a high school English teacher in Quebec, Canada and in Bungoma, Kenya with the Canadian International Development Agency. He was a natural teacher who touched the lives of countless students over his career. He was an avid reader, fervent gardener, cricket enthusiast, zealous cribbage player, and charismatic entertainer at all gatherings with friends and family. In his later years, he enjoyed reading his Bible, basking in the sun, and spending time with his family.
O’Neil was predeceased by the love of his life of over 30 years, wife Felicia D’Souza (2014). His greatest joys were his children, grandchildren, and great-grands. He will be missed by his 6 children, Dawn (late Laurence), late Geoffrey, Gail (Biagio), Kaye, Trevor (Alicia) and Marcia (Kinte); and 7 grandchildren, Layla, Jason, Summer Rose, Nylah, Kyara, Anaya, and Zayne; and 2 great grandchildren, Isaiah and Julius. He is also survived by his sister Audrey Waite (Winston). O’Neil was blessed with a circle of the most wonderful friends and family members with whom he shared countless laughs and experiences.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to the truly incredible health and palliative care professionals at the Montfort and Elizabeth Bruyère hospitals for their exceptional care. They would also like to express their deepest gratitude to friends and family members for their love and support.
O’Neil’s memory will live on through the countless lives he touched during his lifetime and he will be deeply missed.
Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life ceremony in Beechwood's Sacred Space on Sunday, June 25th, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa) followed by a Reception from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Digital Guestbook
Laura
Kim Wheeler-Rinaldo
God bless you up in heaven Mr. Johnson and thank you for making learning so interesting and fun. I was one of your fortunate students from the 70's. Sincere condolences...
Heather Morrison
What a great man! I have found memories of laughing with Mr Johnson ... I remember writing a fully alliterated story just for him! Peace be with him.
Dael Foster
I heard of Mr. Johnson's passing with deep regret. He was one of my teachers at Rosemere High School in the 1970's and introduced me to the beauty that is Shakespeare. With his loving recitations from Hamlet and Macbeth, he drew me (a theatre geek) into that most marvelous of realms. I am forever grateful for his devotion to his students, for his love of literature, for his humour and grace. I have thought of him often over the years, as I've read those towering works, and as I've attended many performances of the Bard's work, and thanked him over and over for spreading that love. And in my more whimsical moments, I remember his turquoise VW Beetle, and smile. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. He is remembered very fondly here.
Isabelle dubois
You used to call me miss dress up. You were an amazing teacher that stuck with me. You’ll be sorely missed.
Lona Beck
I had the pleasure of being taught by Mr. Johnson at Rosemere High School. He was an amazing teacher and individual. He will be remembered.
Jennifer Adamson
I still remember Mr Johnson as one of the best English teachers I ever had. Even though some 50 years have passed, he still holds a place in my heart. My condolences to the family.
Michelle Francis
Sending my deepest condolences to the family and my blessings. Hugs and love to you all during this difficult time.
Kabahenda Kiggundu
To Gail and siblings:
I am very sorry for your loss. Take comfort in knowing that he had a long life. May he rest in eternal peace.
Koreen Fahey
Our amazing English teacher- I still recall the RHS creative writing class paper and his fabulous notes- he inspired, had a great laugh and made a difference. Peace to all his family and friends.
Mr. Johnson taught me to love Math in Rosemere High School and I went from a D student to a B+ student.
RIP. You made a tremendous impact on so many!