Honouring the legacy of Honey and Barry Sherman

City renames beloved community park 

Today, the City of Vaughan officially renamed Wood Valley Park to Honey and Barry Memorial Park, to honour the profound philanthropic legacy of Honey and Barry Sherman. 

Mayor Steven Del Duca, Members of Council, members of the Sherman family and the United Jewish Appeal (UJA) Federation of Greater Toronto gathered to unveil the new name. The dedication reflects the Sherman family’s enduring commitment to enhancing community well-being and supporting countless philanthropic initiatives across the region. 

Honey and Barry Sherman were widely respected for their dedication to community health and social causes. This renaming acknowledges their extraordinary contributions to Vaughan and the broader region – ensuring their memory continues to inspire future generations. 

The Sherman family donated $5 million to UJA in support of the creation and development of the park, which is 3.77 hectares (9.32 acres) in size. Their contribution funded significant enhancements to the site at 2 Marc Santi Blvd., ensuring it remains a vibrant space for recreation and community gathering. The park renovations included enhancing the baseball diamond, soccer field, new and larger parking lot and stormwater servicing. 

QUOTES

“It does not go unnoticed when certain people go above and beyond to make the world a better place. Honey and Barry Sherman were two of these people. They dedicated much of their lives to helping others through their generous support of healthcare, education and community initiatives. Their legacy is one we cannot forget – that’s why I am pleased the City of Vaughan is renaming Wood Valley Park to Honey and Barry Memorial Park in their memory. This beautiful park is now reopened to the public after many renovations, so it can be loved year-round by children and adults alike for many years ahead. Thank you to the Sherman family and the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto. It is my sincere hope that the park will offer a place of remembrance, reflection and healing for the loved ones and friends of Honey and Barry Sherman.”

- Mayor Steven Del Duca

“We are lucky to live in a community where everyone supports one another and lends a helping hand. Honey and Barry Sherman led by example through the generosity they showed in their lifetime, getting involved in various charitable works that helped change many lives in Vaughan and the Greater Toronto Area. I hope everyone who visits the newly renamed Honey and Barry Memorial Park in Ward 4 will be reminded of their profound and remarkable legacy.”

- Ward 4 Councillor Chris Ainsworth

“When reflecting on Honey and Barry Sherman’s lives, it’s clear how deeply they cared about helping and supporting others. Their significant contributions to many charitable organizations that supported our residents are incredibly inspiring, and something we cannot and will not forget. It is truly fitting to see this beautiful park be renamed in their honour, so that we can mark the Shermans’ legacy in this meaningful, ever-lasting way.”

- Ward 5 Councillor Gila Martow 

“I would like to thank the City of Vaughan for renaming this park the Honey and Barry Memorial Park. Parks are more than just grass and jungle gyms – they are places that draw in community from all walks of life to join in play, social engagement, and reflection. Knowing that this park is adjacent to the new Honey and Barry Memorial Arena makes it all the more special that the City chose this fitting tribute in honour of my parents."

- Jonathan Sherman

QUICK FACTS

• The official renaming ceremony for Honey and Barry Memorial Park (2 Marc Santi Blvd.) took place on Thursday, Aug. 21.
• The renaming recognizes the Shermans’ philanthropic influence and their impact on Vaughan and beyond.
• Councillor Chris Ainsworth and Councillor Gila Martow brought forward a Member’s Resolution on May 6, 2025 to rename this park.
• The Sherman family donated $5 million to UJA in support of the re-development of the park, which is 3.77 hectares (9.32 acres) in size. Their contribution funded significant enhancements to the site at 2 Marc Santi Blvd., ensuring it remains a vibrant space for recreation and community gathering. The park renovations included enhancing the baseball diamond, soccer field , a new and larger parking lot and stormwater servicing.

LEARN MORE

• City of Vaughan’s parks webpage
• Honouring the legacy of Honey and Barry Sherman: Renaming Wood Valley Park in their memory Member’s Resolution