Obituary of Linda Louise Finlay

Linda Finlay (Hourigan)

May 10, 1948 – April 9, 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Linda Finlay (Hourigan) on April 9th, 2025, at
the age of 76. After a long and courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis, Linda passed away
peacefully on her own terms, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Oshawa on May 10, 1948, Linda moved to Guelph with her family at the age of three,
where she lived a beautiful and full life. She was predeceased by her beloved parents, John
(Jack) Arthur Hourigan and Marjorie Irene (Cato) Hourigan.
Linda was the cherished mother of Melissa Finlay-Taylor (Casey Taylor) and Bradley Finlay, and
an incredible and devoted Nana to Ella and Kai, of whom she was endlessly proud. She was the
former wife of James Finlay.
Linda will be deeply missed and forever loved by her sisters Dianne (Ivan) Kristensen, Joan
(Harry) Van Dam, Maureen (Rick) Harrington, and her brother Paul (Marg) Hourigan. She was a
loving aunt, dear sister-in-law, cousin, and a treasured friend to so many.
She worked for over 35 years at Imperial Tobacco and built many lasting friendships during her
time there. A lifelong lover of music, Linda was very talented! Linda began singing and playing
guitar in a folk group at Mary Phelan School Church. She later found her musical home in
barbershop choruses and performed on stages around the world. After retirement, she learned
to play the ukulele and sang in a quartet. Music and singing were the highlight of her life, she
was a Dancing Queen till the end.
Linda had a deep love for animals and a heart full of compassion. She was Melissa’s best friend
and biggest supporter, especially during the years of riding and competing in horse
shows—memories they both cherished and laughed about often.
Her cup was always half full. Linda was one of the kindest, most caring souls, with a smile that
could light up a room and a spirit that saw the best in everyone. She is now at peace, singing
from above, and will be forever remembered and missed.
The family wishes to express their deepest thanks to the staff and PSWs at Stone Lodge
Retirement Residence for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Linda. A special thank
you to Carol and Heidi for their gentle love and care. We are also incredibly grateful to Dr.
Ruddock and Brombal Funeral Home for their support and kindness during Linda’s final days.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Brombal Funeral Home, 1 Delhi Street, Guelph on
Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Maid Family Support Society
(www.maidfamilysupport.ca) or Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (cpff.ca), in honour of
Linda’s generous spirit and love of life.