We mourn the loss of Becky (Rebecca) Till, who inspired all of us with her unbreakable spirit and heartwarming smile. She lived a full life after spending her first 11 years in a nursing home. Adopted by Linda and King Till, Becky was accepted, loved and valued as a person of worth. Becky shared her love with others.
For details on the visitation and funeral service, to send condolences or to post a memory or photo click this link: www.roadhouseandrose.com/book-of-memories/3393404/Till-Rebecca/service-details.php
In 1985 when the Tills attempted to enroll Becky in a school in Sharon, the York Region Board of Education categorically refused to accept any responsibility for educating her at all. Read the attached article about the Tills’ fight for justice before the Ontario Human Rights Commission. At the same time, we were fighting the York Region Board of Education for a regular classroom placement in the neighbourhood school for our daughter Jaclyn Rowett. This became a Charter of Rights court challenge. I remember a student support rally for Becky & Jaclyn at a Toronto area community college. As we entered the hall, there was a loud, enthusiastic welcome. We told our stories amidst tears and cheers. This rally & support from others helped us through a difficult, at times lonely fight for justice.
Years later in 2010 we saw Becky perform with an interpretive dance group at Cambridge City Hall. As she danced, Becky’s delight & joy could be seen in her beaming smile. Becky looked so free, present and included. We took many pictures. This is how I will remember her.
At our group’s 25th anniversary celebration in Toronto in 2010, young parents got a chance to meet Becky and Linda. They were inspired by what the Tills (Becky) & the Eatons (Emily) went through and how it opened doors for their children for a better quality education.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Till family, relatives and friends at this time of loss.
Ian Rowett on behalf of Integration Action for Inclusion.
