Send this page to someone via email

Diane Ford, 85, passed away Sunday evening in her west Toronto home surrounded by family and loved ones, says a statement from Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s office.

She is predeceased by her son Rob Ford — the former mayor of Toronto — and her husband Doug Ford Sr.

“Mrs. Ford was an active member of her community who supported numerous charitable causes,” the statement said.

“But most of all, she was the rock for her family, especially her 10 grandchildren.”

#NEW: @globalnewsto has learned Diane Ford was battling cancer. She passed away at home. She was 85 years old. #onpoli — Travis Dhanraj (@Travisdhanraj) January 6, 2020

Story continues below advertisement

The statement went on to thank her caregivers for “their compassionate care.” She had been ill for the past few months, battling cancer.

“The Ford family is extremely grateful for the outpouring of support from members of the community in recent weeks,” the statement said.

Her son Rob Ford died in 2016 at the age of 46 after an 18-month battle with a rare yet aggressive form of cancer.

READ MORE: Premier Doug Ford thanks Andrew Scheer for service as federal Tory leader steps down

In 2018, Doug Ford launched his campaign for premier from his mother’s home, which has also been the setting of the long-running annual Ford Fest barbecue.

Various politicians extended their condolences to the family following Diane Ford’s death, including Ontario’s Opposition Leader Andrea Horwath.

0:54 Ontario Election: Doug Ford arrives at his mother’s house after casting ballot Ontario Election: Doug Ford arrives at his mother’s house after casting ballot

“The Ford family is in our hearts and our minds as they grieve this deep loss,” the NDP leader said in a written statement. “I hope the family finds strength in each other, and comfort in community, and may warm memories of Mrs. Ford help the Ford family through this difficult time.”

Story continues below advertisement

Former Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne also offered her sympathies to the premier on Twitter.

READ MORE: Ford Fest expected to bring in thousands with Doug Ford as premier

“I know your mother Diane was close and important to you and will be dearly missed by you and your family,” she wrote.

Condolences to Premier Ford @fordnation at this time of sadness. I know your mother Diane was close and important to you and will be dearly missed by you and your family. — Kathleen Wynne (@Kathleen_Wynne) January 6, 2020

Federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh also wrote: “The loss of a mother and grandmother, loved one and friend, is heartbreaking. I want to extend my sympathy on behalf of all New Democrats to the Ford family as they grieve the loss of Diane Ford.”

Story continues below advertisement

The loss of a mother and grandmother, loved one and friend, is heartbreaking. I want to extend my sympathy on behalf of all New Democrats to the Ford family as they grieve the loss of Diane Ford. — Jagmeet Singh (@theJagmeetSingh) January 6, 2020

Toronto Mayor John Tory, who won the seat over Doug Ford in the 2014 municipal election, extended his condolences on behalf of the city.

“Throughout the 25 years I have known her, Mrs. Diane Ford was so obviously the matriarch of the Ford family and that is why I know they will miss her so much,” he said.

— With files by The Canadian Press