Simone TAYLOR
Simone Taylor, a celebrated folk singer and former member of the renowned Canadian folk group The Travellers, passed away on June 11, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on October 22, 1932, in Port Colborne, Ontario, to Jack Cook and Lucienne Carriere, Simone developed a passion for music at a young age, learning labour songs from her father. She took pride in her French Canadian and Russian roots, often performing songs in both languages. Simone worked as a secretary with Mine Mill and corresponded with the New Mexico zinc mine strikers. As a member of The Travellers, she performed at major events, including Expo '67 and a cross-country tour celebrating Canada's centennial year. The group was known for their feature song, 'This Land is Your Land,' and championed many causes, promoting peace, brotherhood, and the importance of working people through song. Simone shared the stage with legendary performers, such as Harry Belafonte, Pete Seeger, and Gordon Lightfoot, and performed on popular CBC television shows. After retiring, she raised three daughters and became an advocate for environmental causes.