Patty McNeil Toronto ON Death and Obituary – The Toronto business community is in mourning following the unexpected death of Patricia “Patty” McNeil, a respected and beloved team member at Navacord. Patty passed away suddenly on April 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, kindness, and community engagement. Her untimely death at the age of 42 has created a profound void in both her professional environment and the various charitable causes she supported.
Born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, Patty McNeil was a graduate of the University of Toronto, where she earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree. From the outset of her career, Patty demonstrated a natural aptitude for building relationships and a sharp mind for strategic thinking. These traits quickly propelled her into the world of insurance, where she began her professional journey with prominent local agencies.
In 2018, Patty joined Navacord, Canada’s leading insurance brokerage, as a Senior Account Manager in their Toronto office. Over the years, she built an impressive portfolio of high-value corporate accounts, earning the respect of both clients and colleagues. Patty’s dedication and exemplary work ethic were recognized in 2022, when she was promoted to Assistant Director of Client Services. In this role, she was entrusted with overseeing a team of emerging professionals while also managing client relationships that were integral to Navacord’s continued success.
Patty was not only known for her business acumen but also for her empathetic leadership style. Her colleagues have fond memories of her ability to foster an environment where teamwork and individual growth were equally prioritized. Michael Tan, Navacord’s Regional Vice President, described Patty as “a guiding light in the office,” emphasizing her ability to simplify complex policy details and translate them into actionable, understandable advice. He also highlighted her rare combination of rigorous professionalism and genuine compassion for others.
Beyond her professional contributions, Patty was also a tireless advocate for community involvement. She volunteered extensively with local organizations, including Habitat for Humanity’s Toronto chapter. Additionally, Patty organized annual charity golf tournaments to raise funds for childhood cancer research, a cause close to her heart. She was also a member of the Women in Insurance Leadership Initiatives and served on their board, where she helped mentor and support women in the industry.
Patty’s impact on young women in the industry was profound, as she also volunteered with Girls Inc., mentoring young girls to pursue careers in finance and risk management. Her commitment to mentorship and community development exemplified her belief in lifting others up, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds.
Patty is survived by her husband, Andrew McNeil, and their two young children, Emma (8) and Lucas (5). She is also survived by her parents, Margaret and Thomas O’Connor, and her sister, Catherine O’Connor. The McNeil family has announced a private family service, followed by a public memorial luncheon at the Toronto Congress Centre on May 2, 2025, at noon. In lieu of flowers, they have requested donations be made to the SickKids Foundation, a cause that Patty supported for many years.
Patty McNeil’s sudden passing has left a deep emotional impact on her family, colleagues, and the many charitable organizations she supported. Her legacy is one of service, compassion, and integrity—values that will continue to inspire the lives of those who knew her. Her colleagues at Navacord, the young women she mentored, and the community members she helped will forever remember Patty for her warmth, her generosity, and her commitment to making the world a better place. Her contributions will endure, and her spirit will continue to inspire for years to come.