Bridget Mcilwraith

Bridie was born on 10 September in Muirhead, Scotland, the eldest of seven. Her early years were marked by illness, convent schooling, and World War II.

A bright, wartime student, Bridie won scholarships that took her to nursing school in Glasgow. There, while boarding with the family of her good friend Jan, she met her future husband, Jan’s brother, John. They were married in 1950, and went on to have three children: Gordon (†), Susan and Fraser.

In 1957, thanks to Bridie’s nursing degree, the family was able to immigrate to Canada. In 1967 their fourth child, David, was adopted. Bridie gave up nursing to pursue her true love, educating pre-school children. She did this with commitment not only in the classroom, but politically, becoming president of the BC Preschool Teachers Association from 1976 to 1980. These were the early days of preschool care in BC, and she made a major contribution to early childhood education curriculum and the licensing criteria for daycare centres.

Bridie retired in 1989 and happily took up many of her passions; opera, theatre, discussion and book clubs, travel and friends. She remained in her home in Vancouver until the ripe age of 95, moving to Campbell River to be closer to family just before Covid struck. She spent the last five years of her life in Yucalta Lodge, where she received the best possible care and compassion anyone could have hoped for.

Bridie had numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, something that brought her much joy throughout the years.

In lieu of a service, Bridie will be fondly remembered in our hearts.