Toronto Mourns the Loss of Councillor Jaye Robinson: A Tribute to a Distinguished Public Servant

The city of Toronto is somber today as it mourns the unexpected passing of Councillor Jaye Robinson, a dedicated public servant who represented the Ward of Don Valley West for nearly 14 years. Her office announced that Robinson, aged 61, peacefully passed away in the company of her family, leaving behind a legacy of service and commitment to the community.

Throughout her tenure, Jaye Robinson held various key leadership roles at City Hall, including chairing the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee. She was known as a strong voice on city council, a tireless advocate for her constituents, and a respected mentor to her colleagues.

The news of Robinson’s passing has deeply touched the hearts of many prominent figures in Toronto, including Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, former mayors Rob Ford and John Tory, and her fellow councillors. Flags in Toronto will be flown at half-mast, and condolence books at North York City Council and City Hall will be opened in her memory.

Councillor Jaye Robinson’s work extended beyond traditional council duties, as she played a crucial role in spearheading initiatives such as Nuit Blanche, Summerlicious, and Winterlicious. Her leadership was also pivotal in steering Toronto’s preparations for hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2026.

Before joining politics, Robinson served the city for over two decades in economic development and also held positions at the Art Gallery of Ontario and in initiatives like Vision Zero. Her passing has left a void in the halls of City Hall and in the hearts of Toronto residents who appreciated her unwavering commitment to the city’s growth and progress.

Among the many voices expressing condolences are former Mayor John Tory, who hailed Robinson as a principled representative with a resilient spirit. Other councillors and public figures, including Joshua Matlow, Paul Ainslie, and Doug Ford, also shared their heartfelt messages, underlining Robinson’s impact on the community she served.