Obituary of Pauline Lucille (Cleveland) Lankin

On Friday, June 13, 1930, Pauline was born in Raleigh Township, Ontario.  A lucky day for all of us!  She spent her formative years growing up and loving life on her family farm just outside of Blenheim.  She would move to London to study nursing at Victoria Hospital where she would attend Central Baptist Church and fall in love with her friend’s no longer little brother Ross Lankin and get married on Canada Day 1957.   They soon settled on Rideau Gate in London for more than 50 years.  While we grieve her passing, our hearts are full of gratitude for the beautiful, rich life she lived and the immeasurable love she gave.

Pauline was a woman of deep faith, gentle strength, and creative spirit. A founding member of West Park Baptist Church in London, she served faithfully over the years as a Sunday school teacher, choir member, and in many other roles of service. Her life was a testament of grace, kindness, and love for God, her family and her friends. Professionally, Pauline served as a nurse, caring for others with the same compassion and tenderness.

Pauline expressed her creativity through sewing, knitting, and painting—mastering acrylics, watercolors, and china painting. She was a founding member of the Brush and Palette Club in London, established in 1972, where she nurtured her love for the arts and inspired others.  At home, she was always ready for a game of Scrabble—often unbeatable—and found joy in gardening, reading nonfiction, and returning to her cherished family farm.

Pauline went home to be with her Lord on Thursday, May 29, just two weeks shy of her 95th birthday. She was the beloved wife of the late Ross L. Lankin (2013). Loving mother of David, Marianne and her husband Mike Diamond, Jonathan and his wife Ann (nee Macerollo).   Loved grandmother of Isabella Lankin, Kimberly, Holly, Brianna, and the late Stephen Diamond.  Dear sister of Joy (Don Hill) and the late Glenn (Mary) Cleveland.

Above all, Pauline will be remembered for her ever-present smile, loving heart, playful humour, and the values she instilled in those around her. Her gift of mercy and deep empathy touched many lives. We are thankful beyond words for her life and legacy, and we will carry her memory with us always.

A private family service will be held to honour and celebrate Pauline’s life.