Mighton Funeral Home LTD.
Funerals, Cremations & Life Celebrations
40 Years of Trusted Care
Ayton, Durham, Elmwood, Chesley and surrounding areas since 1984.
With profound love and deep sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Florence “Flo” (Queenie) Dearing (Adams), who made her brief journey to be with Bill, as their daughters held her hands at the Hanover and District Hospital on March 18th.
Flo (Queenie), 91 years old, was a devoted Spouse, Mom, Nana, sister, and friend whose life was rooted in love, strength, and generosity. She was the heart of our family—a steady, caring presence who gave endlessly of herself and made everyone around her feel heard.
Daughters Julia Dearing-Vollett (Peter) of Toronto and Alison Dearing Lahn of Niagara Region, grandchildren Joshua Lahn, Adam Vollett, Aiden Lahn and Nicole Vollett will treasure the memories of her, and will miss her stories, guidance and especially her laughter.
Queenie is remembered with love by her siblings David (Heather) Adams, George (Mary) Adams, John (Debbie) Adams, Ernie Adams and Kathy (Bernie) Barbeau as well as her many nieces, nephews and their families.
Queenie was predeceased by her much loved and missed husband William "Bill" Dearing, Parents Robert and Rose (Crocker) Adams, brothers and sisters-in-law Bob and Lois Adams, Gord and Nancy Adams, Fred and Lynn Adams, Roy and Helen Adams and Nadine Adams, niece Carol, nephew Robert, and great-niece Desiree. We take comfort in imagining her reunited with them.
Born in Parry Sound, Flo (Queenie) moved to Toronto to work with Bell Canada as an Operator then Supervisor for two decades. Flo (Queenie) met Bill at a YMCA Dance and began a love story that saw them wed in 1958 and truly never ended. Flo (Queenie) moved to Hanover, as Bill started his teaching career in 1971. Unable to transfer her career, Flo (Queenie) was a full time Mom and a part-time entrepreneur with Avon and Tupperware. "Mrs. Dearing" also provided extraordinary care to many children. Always wanting to stay busy, Flo (Queenie) worked at Mac's Milk followed by Zellers where she worked in the Men's Department for several years before embracing new adventures alongside Bill in their retirement.
Flo (Queenie) was active in Hanover, volunteering for Big Brothers / Big Sisters for 25 years and was a life-time member of the Hanover and District Hospital Auxiliary. Flo (Queenie) was devoted to supporting the Anglican Church in each community, more recently welcomed by Trinity Anglican Church in Durham after the closing of St. James in Hanover.
Flo (Queenie) had a deep love of gardening and was well known for the care and pride she poured into it. There was always space for one more flowering plant. Previously active with skating, cross-country skiing, swimming and aqua fit, recently Flo (Queenie) enjoyed going on jaunts with friends and family, a cuppa tea with a dessert on the side, old shows, reading, long telephone chats and most of all, precious time with her grandchildren.
Visitation will be held at Mighton Funeral Home, Hanover, on Sunday, March 22, 2026 from 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm.
A Memorial Service will be held at Trinity Anglican Church in Durham, Ontario on Monday, March 23, 2026 at 11:00 am. Family and friends are then invited to gather, share memories, and honor a life so beautifully lived. Cremation has taken place and private family internment will be held at a later date in Parry Sound where she and Bill will be laid to rest at Foley Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, it was Flo's (Queenie) wish that donations be made to Operation Smile Canada. Her daughters’ welcome written stories of memories of their mom which can be provided to Mighton Funeral Home (www.mightonfuneralhome.ca)
Mom will be remembered for her kindness, honesty, independence and the way she showed up for the people she loved—always offering a helping hand - always present. We are thankful to all those who lent a hand to Mom these last few years. Though our hearts are breaking, we find peace in knowing she achieved her goal of living at home and that she is dancing with Bill once again. Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever with us.
Deepest sympathy to the entire family. I got to know Flo when I was a nurse at the village senior community looking after Mr Dearing her husband. I have to tell you as I'm sure you know what an absolutely lovely person she was. It was beautiful watching her and her husband how much love and caring was between them. Now they will be able to continue their fairytale love and be with each other again. I'm sure you family will be at a loss as I'm positive she was a wonderful mother, grandmother and she will be watching over all of you with her loving angle wing protecting you.
- Gail BumsteadJulia and Allison, so sorry to hear about the passing of your Mom. She was a lovely person and being re united with your Dad should bring you comfort! She was a tremendous presence at St. James.
Take care, Jo-Anne
Julia, Peter & family….our condolences to you at this sad time of losing your mother. Flo was a lovely lady. Always pleasant talking to her and so uplifting.
She had a long well deserved life.
Condolences to Julie, Alison and your families on the passing of your lovely mother.
I last saw Flo and was able to sit and chat with her at the memorial service for Julie Derksen at Mighton's. She was dressed and coiffed as stylishly as always and was very happy to chat about you girls and the grandkids. She has always been very proud of you and your families and she would catch me up on your lives whenever we bumped into each other. We reminisced about Bill of course. She was a lucky woman to have had a long loving marriage with her first love.
I was frankly astonished that day to see how well Flo was doing at her age both mentally and physically. I am sad to think I won't bump into her again in town. It must be a painful loss for you but please take comfort in knowing how well regarded and loved both your parents were.
Julia & Alison...
When I opened The Ladybug Shoppe on 10th St.in Hanover in 1973,your Mom&Dad & you 2 wee girls were among my 1st customers.Your Dad would pop in for a "special little something" for 1 or all of "his girls !"Your Mom would drop in to say Hi (always with a big smile) & then usually on a Sat.with you 2 along to "explore" my new line toys,books & Christmas & Easter delights! Great memories for me ! In 1981,I moved to Charlottetown,PEI to open The Duchess of Kent Inn B&B (now in my 44th year).The Dearing connection continued.Several years ago,Julia & Peter surprised me with a lovely "catch-up" visit (& pix) & then 2 years ago (Sept.2024)my "Alison" connection happened.Two Ont.sisters came to stay with me.Turns out Sandra(Sandy)B.from Thorold works/worked with you at Brock U.in admin.& I got caught up with Hanover happenings ...the B&B world is a small one indeed!
I'll always remember your Dad's soft smile & your Mom's love of dance & her wonderful laugh...came with such joy & straight from her heart ! More great memories for me !!
Sending caring thoughts & prayers to you both & to your families.
Sharyn Dalrymple
aka" Ladybug or Duchess"
Deepest condolences to Julia and Allison and their families.
Aunt Flo will be greatly missed❤️
To Julia and Alison and your families:
Dave and I send our sincere condolences on the passing of your Mom. Your Mom was a classy and kind person who always had time to speak to us.
We always admired the love your Mom and Dad showed to each other. They were the ideal couple.
She will certainly be missed by her many friends and acquaintances from our community. Cherish the memories.
Sincerely, Dave & Lorna
Deepest sympathy on the loss of your Mom. Flo would welcome "catching up chats" if you happen to come across her She always took the time and never rushed a conversation. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Dear Alison and Julia.
Loved talking with your mom. She was always upbeat and positive. R.I.P. Flo. Hugs and prayers families
Julia, Alison and families. It was a sad day when your Uncle John called me saying that your Mom had passed away. Queenie the person to be there for every family member and friend, she was so loved and respected. I was a bridesmaid in your parents wedding. Our deepest Sympathy to you both and your families as Queenie often spoke of all. May you find comfort and peace in the coming days. Memories are precious. My thoughts are with you.
Veryl and Ken Todd. Parry Sound.
Julie, Allison and your families. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are very sorry that we will not be able to attend the visitation or the funeral as Bob is in the hospital and I am having health issues. Queenie was a wonderful person and will be really missed.
- Barbara and Bob BarrnesWords cannot express the sadness I felt at the news of Flos passing. Bill and Flo were genuine friends and what good laughs we shared over the years. They were second parents to Aaron who has fond memories of Blue Jay games and other outings to the beach.
Girls hold on to your memories with each other at this difficult time.
Gale, Aaron, Brock and families
What a wonderful person was Queenie. We will miss her so very much Always enjoyed her visits to Parry Sound and many dinners at Trappers..Thinking of all of you at this time. Andy and Bonnie and family
- bonnie nezirevic(Jacklin)I am so sorry to hear of Queenie's passing and know your hearts are broken now. May all the beautiful memories you spoke of in her tribute comfort you. Dennis and I remember
her wonderful laugh and warmth.
Laurel (Veater) McHale
Queenie was loving and kind person. I lived far away but she always made the effort to call me every once in awhile. Spoke to her a few months ago and was always happy to her voice and her words of wisdom. She will greatly missed. My condolences to Alison and Julie and the family. Love always Ellen Ogle
- ellen ogleQueenie had such a warm and welcoming soul. Anytime we had a chance to meet up at a family event or to visit with her in her home, she had a way of making those around her feel special. We are very saddened to hear of her passing but happy that she is with Bill again. We know how much she missed him. Love you Queenie and condolences to family and friends.
From Ted and Carol Castle
So sorry for your loss. Your obituary is a lovely tribute to your Mom. You really captured who your Mom was to.all of us. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Love Mo and Jim
- Maureen FarquharsonSorry for your loss.
(I worked with Flo at Zellers)
Sorry to hear about Queenie. Please accept our condolences.
- David, Barbara and the Bricknell FamilyI am holding you all close in my heart.
Aunt Flo"our dear Aunt Queenie"carried such a beautiful presence. I feel so grateful to have known her. She was a quiet mentor in grace, showing through her way of being how to move through life with kindness, strength, and dignity.
Sending love, comfort, and gentle moments of peace to all of you.
She will always be remembered with love. 🤍
I am holding you all close in my heart.
Aunt Flo"our dear Aunt Queenie"carried such a beautiful presence. I feel so grateful to have known her. She was a quiet mentor in grace, showing through her way of being how to move through life with kindness, strength, and dignity.
Sending love, comfort, and gentle moments of peace to all of you.
She will always be remembered with love. 🤍
I am holding you all close in my heart.
Aunt Flo"our dear Aunt Queenie"carried such a beautiful presence. I feel so grateful to have known her. She was a quiet mentor in grace, showing through her way of being how to move through life with kindness, strength, and dignity.
Sending love, comfort, and gentle moments of peace to all of you.
She will always be remembered with love. 🤍
Alison and Julie, sincerest sympathy on the loss of your dear Mom. May your many happy memories of time spent together flood your mind, even in the midst of grief. My thoughts are with you.
- Heather BenderJulia and Alison, we are so saddened by the news of your mother's passing. Flo was a very special lady with a heart of gold who loved and cherished her family. May you find comfort knowing she is reunited with your dad. By keeping her memory alive through stories and anecdotes she will always be close to your heart. Our heartfelt condolences.
- Lori Ann and Stephen EadieCondolences to Flo's family in your time of loss. Cherish your memories.
- Elizabeth ElvidgeMy deepest condolences to Allison, Julia, and families. Your parents were two of the most kind, loving and genuine people one could ever wish to know. I had the true privilege of teaching with Bill until his retirement and getting to know Flo through our tech department get-togethers over the years. I take comfort in knowing they are at last together again. As your dear Mum showed us every day, in life there is love and there is loss -- but love is always stronger. God bless.
- Gail PletschMy sincerest condolences to Quennies family/ families.
God be with you .
Condolences to Julia,Alison and families.
Our family has known Flo and Bill 55 years ever since they rented their first housemext to ours. My first memory was when I rescued Flo's laundry that was hung out on the line. Bill, Flo and Julia (Alison hadn't arrived yet) went off for the day, at some point the beautiful sunny day changed to rain so I realized that her washing would be soaked. Well I made a mad dash over to get it off the line and leave it for her in the back porch! We all remember Flo and Bill with so many memories one being the endless "cuppas " while visiting. " God gave us a memory so we could remember roses in December. "Anon. So appropriate as Flo loved her garden, especially her roses.
The Craig's Kathryn, John, Suyin Keith and Janai
My condolences to all that loved Queenie. Queenie and my mom, Berniece Woodroffe, were such great friends growing up in Parry Sound. I know that they spent many a day skiing at Limberlost Lodge in Huntsville. Both Queenie and Bill were the kindest most loving people you could ever meet. May your memories of your mom and dad bing you comfort during this difficult time. Hugs to all.
- Karen-Ann Johnson SandovalDear Allison and Julia
Both your parents were such lovely people. Even after Bull passed, Flo and I would have great chats she was so interested, caring, and friendly.
All the best to both of you; you will be missing them but they are also still living in the two of you.
❤️ Paul
A very nice lady ..I remember her at Zellers ..such a very friendly person..Her husband Bill taught me at J.D.S.S. school..He was an ausome teacher ..Prayers to all friends and family ... Wayne scheifele
- Wayne scheifeleThinking of you both at this difficult time.
- Mary Anne MorrisonI am holding you all close in my heart.
Aunt Flo, "our dear Aunt Queenie", carried such a beautiful presence. I feel so grateful to have known her. She was a quiet mentor in grace, showing through her way of being how to move through life with kindness, strength, and dignity.
Sending love, comfort, and gentle moments of peace to all of you.
She will always be remembered with love. 🤍
Julia, Allison and families. My sympathy for the loss of your beautiful Mother, Flo. I grew up not far from your family home, in Pinewood Park, and was fortunate enough to have many lovely conversations with her.
Treasure all your wonderful memories.
RIP Queenie
Dear Alison and Julia
Your Mother did achieve her goal of staying in her own home with courage and determination. I admire her for that.!
I would manage to have a couple of visit per summer in her back yard. She was always interested in others and I was just checking on her well being. She praised her neighbours who helped her with shopping and she sang the praises of her two girls! You will miss her terribly but will have many warm memories of your family times! Deepest sympathy! TELF and VERA STRUTHERS. 🥲🥲
So sorry to hear of Flows passing. Bet her and Bill are wooping it up with my Mom and Dad. my heart felt condolences
- Randy GauntSending sincere and heart felt condolences on the passing of Flo...hold on to the precious memories of a life well lived.
- Fred ParsonsSo sorry for your loss. She was a loving grandmother and mother to you all. My deepest sympathy
My deepest condolences to the Family. I had the opportunity to work with Flo for a few years at Zellers. I always enjoyed her company whenever I got to sit with her on a break or passing through the men's department to throw in a quick conversation while shopping! Flo was always caring and a good listener. She would give you a sincere smile and had a gentleness about her. She will be missed by many. God Bless and keep dancing!
- Sharon HermanJulia & Alison, we regret to hear about the loss of your Mother "Flo". She was a warm, kind and genuine person; also one of our first neighbours in Hanover. Rudy and Bill were also on staff together at JDSS. Our sincere sympathy to the whole family. Peace to you.
- Rudy and Reta derksen
