Former Playback associate editor Pamela Cuthbert passed away unexpectedly at home on March 11.

A highly respected writer and editor, Cuthbert earned a reputation for her professionalism and keen editorial skills while at Playback in the early stages of her career.

She left the magazine in 1996 to pursue a freelance writing career, and lived in Italy for a time to pursue her passion of food.

Upon her return to Canada, Cuthbert started the Toronto Slow Food Chapter in 2002 and edited the quarterly Slow Canada. She was also awarded the Fellowship of the Ontario Hostelry Institute for her contributions as a food editor and writer.

Cuthbert also spent time working as a publicist with the National Film Board, and later did freelance research and writing for the organization from 2005 to 2014. She was also the managing editor of Screen International’s TIFF Dailies from 2003 to 2006.

“Pamela was such a natural writer, and such a genuine person, that she couldn’t help but elevate the quality of whatever she did,” said Gerry Flahive,  a former producer with the NFB who worked with Cuthbert. “I could tell that the passion she had for food, especially, was borne from a deep moral and aesthetic belief that what was good, what was best about us, had to be celebrated. And that she did with talent, wit and great joy.”

Cuthbert’s friend and former associate Kelley Alexander said she first met Cuthbert in the TIFF Press Office and recalls her keen approach to work and life. “She was witty, curious, and passionate in her career and personal life. Gusto,” Alexander said. “She had a joyful soul, and a deep commitment to community.”

Cuthbert leaves behind her husband, Paul French, and their son Dylan.