Linda McCarthy Obituary

Linda Lee McCarthy (née Brockington) May 19, 1946-October 28, 2024. Beloved mother of Vanessa McCarthy (John Peters Mersereau) and Janette Drew; cherished grandmother of Morgan (Meghen) Drew and Mitchell Drew. Born in Leaside to Horace William Brockington and Phyllis Jane Coleman; sister of Bob (Yoli), Bill (Liz), and Mary Anne (John Welsh); much loved aunt; treasured niece and cousin of the 'Buffalo Gawleys'; friend and respected colleague to many.

Linda attended Leaside High School and the University of Waterloo. In the late 1960s, she began her long career in the computer business, designing and implementing mainframe computer systems for Mintex and Colgate Palmolive, among others. In the late 1970s, she opened her own consulting firm and later co-founded International Software Products (1987-2000). She finished her career as a proud and passionate employee of the City of Toronto, first as consultant to the Committee of Adjustment for Ward 16 Don Valley East (2007-2015) and then as planning, development, and committee of adjustment assistant for City Councillor Mike Colle, Ward 8 Eglinton-Lawrence (2018-2024).

Linda was a committed feminist and leader. For many years, she volunteered with the Girl Guides of Canada, serving as the District Commissioner of Leaside for seven years (1983-1990), and was a long-time member of the National Action Committee on the Status of Women (1971-2000). She was also passionate about local politics, serving as vice president of the Lytton Park Residents' Organization (2015-2018). Finally, she was an active member of the Malo Tones choir and the Singing to Breathe group.

A funeral will be held at Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles - Newbigging Chapel (1403 Bayview Avenue, Toronto) on Monday, November 25th at 2:00 p.m. (arrival any time between 1 and 2 pm). A private family reception will follow. Condolences may be forwarded through http://www.humphreymiles.com. Linda believed that education was the key to independence and equity for girls and women. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made in her memory to the Canadian Federation of University Women's Charitable Trust, which grants awards and fellowships to female-identified people pursuing graduate-level educations: https://www.canadahelps.org.