Diane Ford, mother of Doug and the late Rob Ford, dies at age 85

Diane Ford, the mother of Ontario Premier Doug Ford and the late Toronto mayor Rob Ford, has died at the age of 85.

The premier’s office said she died in her Etobicoke home with her family by her side after a battle with cancer.

“Mrs. Ford was an active member of her community who supported numerous charitable causes,” spokeswoman Ivana Yelich said in a written statement. “But most of all, she was the rock for her family, especially her 10 grandchildren.”

Yelich said the family was grateful for the outpouring of love and support in recent weeks.

Statement from the Premier’s Office on the passing of Mrs. Diane Ford. pic.twitter.com/eZQ07GAcAf

— Ivana Yelich (@yelich_ivana) January 5, 2020

Ford’s death has prompted a flood of condolences from politicians, including Prime Minister Just Trudeau.

.@fordnation,

I’m sorry to hear about the passing of your mother. Sophie & I are keeping you & your family in our thoughts tonight.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) January 6, 2020

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.

On behalf of all Toronto residents, I am extending condolences to the Ford family tonight as they mourn her passing.

— John Tory (@JohnTory) January 6, 2020

Sending condolences to Premier @fordnation and the Ford family on the passing of his mother, Diane Ford.

— Walter Sendzik (@WSendzik) January 6, 2020