William George Davey

 William George Davey, in his 92nd year, passed quietly on September 23, 2022 at the Uxbridge Cottage Hospital.  William was predeceased by his wife, June.  Beloved father of Laura (the late Theo) and the late Jason, cherished grandfather of Erin and Brent, dear brother of Daphne, William is also fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his brothers Bert and Jim.

As the youngest child of Bertie and Ethel, Will grew up in Toronto with his sister Daphne and brothers Bert and Jim.  He enjoyed playing basketball and baseball, and developed a passion for music that flourished throughout his life.  In his teens, he and brother Bert played in a band with some neighbourhood friends, but in 1949, William joined the Eddie Stroud Big Band which took him, among other places, to Bala where he met the love of his life, Junie.

Married in 1953, they spent 64 devoted years together until June’s passing in 2018.  William and June lived a true partnership in every aspect of their life together.  In their early years they opened a little camera shop which grew into the successful business of Coral Studios. William developed his photography skills and was accredited with a Master of photography for his portraits.  With June by his side, they produced many acclaimed exhibits such as Famous Canadians, Jazz Musicians and the groundbreaking Distinguished Women exhibit.  His photography chronicled innumerable family histories over his 35-year career.

William felt that his art and music connected him to people.  He could often be found playing saxophone or piano or composing and arranging music.  It brought him great joy to share his passion while conducting and playing in the Kawartha Big Band in Lindsay, arranging and playing music for Uxperience, and along with his daughter, Laura, playing in the band Hot Air.

As well as being an accomplished artist and musician, William was also a handyman, renovating each of the family homes in Scarborough, Pickering, Uxbridge and Unionville before finally purchasing their farm in Little Britain where Will raised cows, made music, and enjoyed retirement with Junie. 

William began a second career in the late 70’s trading stocks on Bay Street and eventually becoming a stockbroker. He loved to play the markets and continued to trade stocks on his iPad even after moving into the retirement home. It was there that he met Julie with whom he shared laughter and joy. We are very grateful for her care and affection for Will.