Hometown St.Thomas November 2026

A Century of Remembrance, A Legacy of Caring

Saint Thomas Cemetery Company Owns and Operates St. Thomas Cemetery and South Park Cemetery

RING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH BETTER HEARING! Book an appointment NOW to hear how new HEARING AIDS can help! For some, a visit begins with a game of cards or a conversation over lunch. Over time, those simple connections can become friendships, volunteer opportunities and a chance to contribute to something far larger than themselves. Those gatherings also help sustain its community contributions. Money raised through meat draws, lunches and other activities supports Making people feel welcome is an important part of that effort. The branch offers darts, pool tables, weekly euchre and monthly fun euchre, while trivia and open mic nights are announced through its Facebook page. Here in St. Thomas, Valerie says the branch began in 1926, initially meeting on Talbot Street before moving to its current building in the 1940s. More recently, the branch sold the building to the food bank and continues operating in the lower level, an arrangement that has helped it carry on serving the community. Anniversary celebrations have included a July barbecue with complimentary hot dogs, chips and cake for members, along with a roast beef anniversary dinner at the end of October for members and guests, with local dignitaries invited. Valerie joined in 2009 after her husband became involved. Her father also served in the military, giving the Legion’s purpose a personal connection. Today, she wants residents to know that a military background is not required to participate. “The new Legion is open to everybody,” she says. “Anybody can come in at any time. They’re all welcome.” The national centenary offer of free membership for new mem- bers during 2026 has helped bring approximately 150 newcomers to Branch 41, which now has roughly 260 members. Valerie hopes those new faces will continue visiting, get involved and renew their memberships next year. For 100 years, the St. Thomas Legion Branch 41 has turned remem- brance into action. From supporting veterans and their families to helping local students, sports teams and community organizations, its work reaches well beyond the annual appearance of poppies on our coats. As both the local branch and The Royal Canadian Legion celebrate their centenary in 2026, Branch 41 President, Valerie Clark is looking back with pride and ahead with optimism. “For the last 100 years, the Legion has had a strong presence in almost every community across the country,” says Valerie. “Our branch in St. Thomas has been an active member of our community.” The national organization grew from a desire to unite the veterans’ associations established after the First World War. In November, 1925, representatives gathered in Winnipeg to form the Canadian Legion of the British Empire Service League. Its incorporation by a special Act of Parliament on July 17, 1926, established the official anniversary celebrated today. In 1960, Queen Elizabeth II granted the organization its ‘Royal’ designation.

67 West Ave, St. Thomas 519-631-2038 stthomascemetery.com

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"MAY THEIR REMEMBRANCE BE AS LASTING AS THE LAND THEY HONOURED" Daniel Webster

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519-773-3838 Aylmer 17KingSt. (Behind CIBC) 519-637-5925 St.Thomas 66 West Ave. (By the Memorial Arena)

888-815-2306 West Lorne 146 Munroe St. (Behind Health Centre)

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Page 30 Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026

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