A Barrie mother who was reported missing to city police earlier this month but later found safe has been identified as the woman found dead in a wooded area of East Gwillimbury, according to police in York Region.
Georgina 'Gina' Baxter, 47, had been reported missing to Barrie police on March 2, when she was last seen in the Cheltenham Road area. She was located safe the following day.
However, on March 4, York Regional Police search and rescue teams were involved in a search in the area of Yonge Street and Green Lane in East Gwillimbury, just north of Newmarket. At approximately 4:50 p.m., Baxter's body was found in a wooded area, police confirmed.
"Her death is not considered suspicious at this time," York Regional Police Const. Laura Nicolle told BarrieToday, adding the investigation has been turned over to the coroner.
According to her obituary posted on the Steckley-Gooderham Funeral Homes website in Barrie, Baxter is described as the "beloved wife, soul mate and best friend" of Bob Baxter for over 28 years, as well as a "loving and devoted mother" of three boys.
Baxter had been a 20-year employee of CSR Cosmetic Solutions, located on Victoria Street, and several of her co-workers expressed their grief on the funeral home's memorial wall for Baxter.
"My most heartfelt condolences to Gina's sons, husband, mother and all of her family," wrote one woman. "I had the pleasure of working with Gina for 18 years and will never forget her divine laughter that would always fill a room. She had the most beautiful eyes of compassion. She was a dear friend, a big sister and is now an angel. Rest in paradise Gina. You are loved by so many."
Another person said Baxter was always kind and understanding.
"Gina, thanks for always giving people the benefit of the doubt and understanding," wrote another co-worker. "For all the wonderful things you’ve said about me and other people who’ve worked for you. Although I am sad to say we did not know each other outside of work, I am glad I got to know you at all. You were an awesome boss. CSR will not be the same without you."
"I will never forget the moments Gina and I had. She's a big part of where I ended up in CSR," wrote a co-worker. "She is a beautiful soul and her cherished memories will live on forever. It's sad knowing that bubbly personality won't be walking through the plant anymore. Seeing you at Christmas time and not knowing that was the last time I would hug you or talk to you breaks my heart."
Visitiation will be held Thursday, March 14 from 6-7 p.m. at Steckley-Gooderham Funerals Homes' Worsley Street chapel. A celebration of life is scheduled to follow at 7 p.m.
