A longtime East Vancouver bookstore has closed temporarily after owner Lea Watson passed.
Watson, the owner of Canterbury Tales Bookstore, passed away on May 23, 2025, according to a post from the store, weeks away from her 75th birthday. She'd owned and run Canterbury for decades, first on West 4th Avenue in Kitsilano, before opening at 2010 Commercial Dr. (taking over the space from Bibliophile Bookshop).
The Kitsilano location closed in 2012, and the Commercial Drive location remained Canterbury's only location since.
"To our Canterbury Tales community, it is with great sadness that we recognize the passing of the store's owner, Lea Watson," reads a statement on the store's website. "Second to her family, her store and her customers were her greatest joys."
In light of her death, the store has temporarily closed down.
"We appreciate your patience as we grieve, reflect, and figure out the best path forward," reads the statement.
Many people have posted messages on social media and in real life to Watson. A sign posted on Canterbury's front door has turned into a community memorial, with many thanking Watson for her stories, store, and time.
"A Commercial Drive staple and legend. Rest in Peace," reads one.
"My shelves are filled with books from your store," reads another. "Thank you! You will be missed."
"Thank you, Lea," read several.
Dozens more messages have been posted on Facebook and Instagram.
