Over 20 recipients have been named in the 2025 Mayor's Honour List.
Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley released the 44th edition of the list ahead of the new year as a tribute to the "unsung heroes" whose efforts have made a difference in the community.
The Mayor's Honour List was established in 1981 by the late Marceil Saddy (there was no list in 1988). A formal reception for this year's recipients will be held in early 2026.
George Hayes is being recognized for his legacy of warmth and reliability in keeping residents informed and entertained. The former morning show host of Blackburn Media's 99.9 The FOX and operations manager of the Sarnia branch retired in November.
Avid volunteer Becky Wellington-Horner has dedicated countless hours to planning Sarnia's Canada Day celebrations for 50 years. Wellington-Horner has also played a major role in helping to organize other community events, such as the YMCA/CHOK International Bridge Race, the city’s 100th anniversary celebrations, the World Under-17 Hockey Tournament, and the Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.
Pathways Health Centre for Children celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, marking a "legacy of innovation and compassion." Mayor Bradley said the organization continues to transform the lives of children and youth with physical, developmental, and communication needs, empowering them to reach their full potential.
Lt. David Anderson is being highlighted for his leadership with local cadets over the past four decades and for introducing programs that build strong foundations for different types of careers. He joined the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves in 1982 and has since received honours such as the King’s Coronation Medal in 2024, the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012, and the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award in 1983.
Long-time coach Tom Hennessey is known for mentoring youth in the community and offering a positive outlet through the sport of boxing. The president of Bluewater Boxing Club was also recently named president of Boxing Canada. However, the mayor said Hennessey's influence reaches beyond the ring, instilling a sense of belonging in youth from all backgrounds.
Patrick (posthumously) and Val Gladwish have been named honourees for their generosity -- provided through the Pat and Val Gladwish Foundation -- in funding a new splash pad at Kenwick Park in Bright’s Grove. Construction began in the fall and is hoped to be completed in the spring of 2026.
Bob and Nancy Bork are being recognized for their "quiet acts of kindness" in supporting several initiatives, charities, and events. The local business owners (H. Moore & Son Windows and Doors) have provided donations and sponsorships to organizations such as the Inn of the Good Shepherd, the Alzheimer Society, and Habitat for Humanity. The two have also been involved in Rotary Club initiatives.
Sarnia's Special Olympics curling team, the Super Rockers, are being highlighted for their dedication, teamwork, and community spirit. "Their commitment to promoting fitness, fun, and opportunity for individuals with disabilities is truly commendable," said Bradley. The team hosted its first Funspiel in February.
Stephanie Dunlop is being praised for her infectious energy, leadership, and selfless service seen through her commitment to French Immersion education and local sports. She currently serves as president of the Sarnia Pacers Minor Lacrosse Association.
John and Kyle Mellor are being featured for their involvement and continued success of a popular youth hockey tournament. John’s involvement with Sarnia Silver Stick began in 1993, and he served as tournament director for several years. His son, Kyle, later stepped into the role and has been "instrumental" in leading the Sarnia boys' International Silver Stick tournament.
Jack Struck is being recognized for his steadfast commitment to the Sarnia Kinsmen Club. For over 50 years, he has helped with community events such as the annual Santa Claus Parade, Canada Day Parade, Ribfest, and the Spring into Summer Arts and Craft Show.
Jayne Little continuously gives back to the community through local initiatives. She has volunteered for several organizations, including Brownies, Girl Guides, Pathfinders, the Sarnia Concert Association, and Literacy Lambton. She is also the current president of the Malcolm Cameron Chapter of the I.O.D.E., and vice president of the I.O.D.E. South-Western Ontario Region.
Elsie Corrigan has been helping to keep people fed in the community for decades by serving hot lunches at the Inn of the Good Shepherd with Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church and delivering for Meals on Wheels. She has also volunteered at St. Vincent de Paul food bank for the past eight years, and has been a member of the Catholic Women’s League for 75 years.
Joanna Edwards is being hailed as a true ambassador for positivity and community pride. Her efforts to pick up litter and tend to community spaces have made her known in the downtown area. She previously represented the city as a Special Olympics athlete.
Alan Day's philanthropic efforts are being celebrated. The Alan Day Charity Open golf tournament, founded in 2014, has raised $518,500 for St. Joseph’s Hospice.
Gary and Holly Delavigne are being recognized for their community contributions through the sport of squash. They introduced the sport at local high schools, organized tournaments, and created a scholarship for players. The pair also co-founded the Gary Waite Squash Tour, which raised over $215,000 for Bluewater Health and St. Joseph’s Hospice.
John McLean is being recognized posthumously for his commitment to helping others. He spent over 30 years as a volunteer for the Sarnia Organ Donor Awareness (SODA) Golf Tournament and played a major role in bringing "Jazz in the Village" to Sarnia. During his ALS battle, he participated in clinical trials to advance research.
Dale Patterson and Bob Pierce are being applauded for their work in supporting families during their most difficult moments. The mayor said the two went beyond their professional responsibilities at McKenzie & Blundy Funeral Home, creating a standard of care rooted in empathy and respect.
Diane Robb has been a passionate volunteer in Sarnia for over 30 years. The mayor said she played an instrumental role during the early days of the local PRIDE movement and has spent the past decade working alongside the Alzheimer Society of Sarnia-Lambton. Inspired by her mother's journey with dementia, Robb has helped the organization with events, promotions, and awareness initiatives as a volunteer and board member.
Holly Wenning is being applauded for creating a theatre program, Stars 21-Plus, for adults with developmental disabilities who have aged out of youth services. She created the program in 2023 after noticing a gap in services. She now meets regularly with a cast of 18 young adults.
PJ Wilson has dedicated time and resources to reunite lost pets with their families by founding Sarnia-Lambton Pet Safe/Secure. Wilson also raises money for the humane society and supports local families in need during the holiday season.
