Sydney Mary Duder (née Fisher), 1921–2025
Peacefully passed away on March 18, 2025, in Montreal, just three weeks shy of her 104th birthday.
Wife, mother, sister, teacher, mentor — and a woman of delightful idiosyncrasy — Sydney leaves behind a devoted group of admirers who will cherish her memory.
A Life of Purpose
Born in Montreal on April 5, 1921, Sydney was the eldest of six children — three girls and three boys. She attended The Study School and later McGill University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree.
She married Rudolph “Paddy” Duder, a diplomat from Newfoundland, and together they moved to Japan on a three-year posting. They had two children, Claire and Paul.
At the age of 50, Sydney returned to McGill, enrolling in the School of Social Work. She earned a Master of Social Work and later a PhD, eventually joining the faculty where she taught for 50 years, retiring at age 99.
Deep Roots in Knowlton
Sydney had strong family ties to Knowlton. Her great-uncle, The Hon. Sydney Fisher, served as MP for Brome (1896–1908) and was Minister of Agriculture under Wilfrid Laurier. A key figure in Canadian agricultural policy, Fisher built a remarkable farm on Brome Lake, now known as Alva House.
Born just days before her great-uncle’s death in 1921, Sydney was named in his memory. The farm passed to his nephew, Philip Fisher, Sydney’s father. The Fisher family has long played an active role in the Knowlton area and was also central to the development of Canadian media, having founded Southam Inc., which once owned The Gazette and many other newspapers across Canada.
A Lasting Legacy
Sydney is remembered as an example and an inspiration — dedicated to education, social work, and a life lived fully and generously.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband Paddy, her brothers Guy, John, and Gordon, and her sister Claire Kerrigan.
She is survived by her children Claire and Paul, and her youngest sister, Martha Hallward of Knowlton.
There will be no funeral.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Sydney’s memory can be made to the McGill School of Social Work at
🔗 alumni.mcgill.ca/give
(Gift code: 09517)
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