In Loving Memory
Rona June Tomlinson, lovingly known as June, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, in Victoria, BC, surrounded by her children’s love at her bedside.
Born in June 1946 in Tyvan, Saskatchewan to Albert and Louise Bixenman, June’s life was filled with love, kindness, and resilience. She grew up on a farm before moving into town, attending Fillmore High School and graduating in 1964. She later earned her diploma in secretarial administration from the Saskatchewan Technical Institute (STI) in 1966, where lifelong friendships began and where she met her first husband, Gerry Payne.
June and Gerry married in 1967 and shared many years living in Vancouver, Ottawa, and eventually settling in Victoria in 1979. Together they welcomed three children: Wendy, Tim, and Susan. After parting ways in 1991, June met Eric Tomlinson in 1993. Their loving union flourished into marriage in 2001.
June and Eric shared a vibrant life—boating, traveling, hosting meals, and spending cherished time with family and friends. Eric predeceased June in March 2025.
June enjoyed a long and dedicated career in administration, most notably at Oak Bay Lodge. She retired at age 58 after facing a serious illness, from which she bravely recovered, gifting her family 20 precious years beyond retirement.
June will be fondly remembered by her children: Wendy Johnson (Tony), Tim Payne (Carmen Payne), and Susan Payne (Fred); her dear grandchildren: Holly Johnson, Waylon Johnson, Sydney Payne, Logan Payne, and Ryder Green. She was a beacon of warmth and generosity always holding family close, befriending everyone she met, and offering joy through her cooking, baking, music, and love for hummingbirds and ladybugs.
Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, the laughter she shared, and the unwavering love she gave so freely.
A celebration of Rona June Tomlinson’s life will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC on Saturday, August 23rd, 2025, at 9:00am. We welcome anyone who knew June to come to celebrate her life.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Tomlinson/Bixenman/Payne” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
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Marilyn & Terry Myles
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Joanne Galbraith I remember June at Oak Bay Lodge .She was a wonderful caring person . She will be missed
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Maryl McCay June was a dear friend. She was especially helpful when Don was needing more care. I was glad he had Eric near him for 2 months. June was a great hostess , and we enjoyed bridge, New Years and especially garden visits during Covid19 Back yard spaced and with masks when required. I will dearly miss her. I am glad for the 24 years we had together.
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Aleisha So sorry for your loss. June was so kind to me and welcomed me in to the family when I joined the local school. I have such fond memories of trying the lovely baked foods on offer after school, amongst other memories of love and kindness. My condolences to you all, she will be sorely missed. I am glad you could cherish the time together. Journey well, beautiful hummingbird. Lots of love, Aleisha xxxx
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Niki Nichols laver So sorry for your loss. I understand the pain. God bless and prayers of love light peace during this difficult time. Love xo
Marilyn & Terry Myles
We first meet June when she was attending S.T.I. in Moose. By coincidence our jobs brought our two families to the Vancouver area where our friendship continued. You were always welcome in their home. June was God Mother to our son. She was a true life long friend and will be greatly missed.