Findley was remembered not just as a fine writer but also as a fine man: his kindness and generosity were mentioned repeatedly in tributes to him.

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Cited was his willingness to give time to causes important to him. He and Whitehead were two of the first to volunteer at Casey House, an AIDS hospice in Toronto. Findley was also deeply concerned about the environment and animals.

Encouraging writers, especially those just starting out, was a task that Findley joyfully undertook. He made a point of answering all the letters that he received from them. In addition to offering advice, he sometimes lent financial assistance and help in finding a publisher. His nurturing even extended to traveling to book launches by his protégés. In recognition of his contributions in this area the J. W. McConnell Family Foundation established the Timothy Findley Award for New Canadian Plays. The inaugural prize was given in April 2004.

Findley received numerous accolades during his lifetime, including many Canadian literary awards, the Order of Canada (1986), and the Order of Ontario (1991). He was also named Chevalier de l'ordre des arts et des lettres in France (1997). One tribute that would surely have pleased him was the action taken by his beloved Stratford: when news of his death reached the town, flags were lowered to half-staff in his honor.

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