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Hazel McCallion

Hazel McCallion was a Canadian politician best known as the long-serving mayor of Mississauga, Ontario, from 1978 to 2014.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Hazel McCallion was a Canadian politician best known as the long-serving mayor of Mississauga, Ontario, from 1978 to 2014. Nicknamed "Hurricane Hazel," she became one of Canada’s longest-serving mayors and helped oversee Mississauga’s growth from a smaller suburban community into a major city. She died in 2023 at the age of 101.

Early life

Hazel McCallion was born Hazel Journeaux on February 14, 1921, in Port Daniel, Quebec. Sources identify her as a Canadian politician and businesswoman before her long municipal career.

Mayor of Mississauga

McCallion was first elected mayor of Mississauga in 1978 and held the office until her retirement in 2014. Her 12 consecutive terms made her the city’s longest-serving mayor.

Public legacy

McCallion became known for strong leadership and for guiding Mississauga’s growth into one of Canada’s largest cities. Her tenure made her a prominent figure in Ontario municipal politics.

Honours and recognition

McCallion received national and provincial honours, including the Order of Canada and the Order of Ontario. She remained widely recognized in Canadian public life after leaving office.

Key facts

  • McCallion served as mayor of Mississauga for 36 years, from 1978 to 2014.
  • She was first elected in November 1978 and won 12 consecutive terms as mayor.
  • She was Mississauga’s longest-serving mayor and one of Canada’s longest-serving mayors.
  • She was known by the nickname "Hurricane Hazel" for her forceful political style.
  • She was appointed to the Order of Canada in 2005 and the Order of Ontario in 2021.
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Canadian context

McCallion is a notable Canadian municipal political figure, especially for readers interested in Ontario politics, Mississauga’s development, and women in Canadian public life.

Frequently asked questions

Who was Hazel McCallion?
She was a Canadian politician best known as the longtime mayor of Mississauga, Ontario, from 1978 to 2014.
Why was she called "Hurricane Hazel"?
The nickname referred to her forceful, confident political style and long dominance in Mississauga municipal politics.
How long was Hazel McCallion mayor of Mississauga?
She served for 36 years, winning 12 consecutive terms as mayor.
When did Hazel McCallion die?
She died on January 29, 2023, at the age of 101.
What honours did Hazel McCallion receive?
She was appointed to the Order of Canada and the Order of Ontario.
What is Hazel McCallion’s significance in Canadian politics?
She was one of Canada’s longest-serving mayors and a prominent female figure in municipal politics.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hazel_McCallion
    Supports: Full name, birth and death dates, and long tenure as mayor of Mississauga.
  2. City of Mississauga — https://www.mississauga.ca/hazel-mccallion-in-memory/life-and-legacy/
    Supports: First election in 1978, 12 consecutive terms, and record as longest-serving mayor.
  3. The Canadian Encyclopedia — https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/hazel-mccallion
    Supports: Biography, nickname, impact on Mississauga, honours, and death.
  4. City of Brampton — https://www.brampton.ca/EN/City-Hall/Protocol-Office/Brampton-Remembers/Pages/Remembering-Hazel-McCallion.aspx
    Supports: Service as Mississauga mayor, retirement, nickname, and later advisory roles.
  5. CBC News — https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/hazel-mccallion-dead-at-101-1.6730009
    Supports: Death at age 101 and significance as longtime mayor.