Hilda Lindsay (nee Ballard)

Predeceased by husband Irvin Lindsay (2012), eldest son Bill (2023) and siblings Gladys, Irene (Ron Webb) Frank (Gladys), Norman (Emily) and Harry (Dawn).

Hilda was born in Hastings, England to Henry Ballard and Bertha Allen. The family arrived in Quebec in 1928 onboard ship "Regina" then on to Toronto, settling into their first home where their youngest son, Harry, was born.

After finishing school, Hilda worked for Bell Telephone, Patons & Baldwins, and De Havilland Aircraft.

Hilda and Irvin met on a blind date in 1942. Hilda was skeptical about the arrangement, but when she saw the tall, handsome young man in his RCAF uniform, she was smitten. A few dates later, Hilda introduced Irvin to her father and held her breath, hoping her dad would approve. She released her breath when he said to her, "Don't lose this one." And she never did. They were married on May 29, 1944.

Hilda always longed to be involved in theatre, and loved to sing. When she was a kid, she'd gather up other neighbourhood youngsters to sing, dance, and act out scenes from plays and musicals. Fast forward to the 1960's when Hilda joined the Willowdale United Church choir. Then came the IBM Glee Club, Yorkminstrels, assorted community theatre groups, and finally Toronto Opera at U of T.

Hilda also organized two groups of entertainers: Happiness Is, and Happiness Is Juniors, who travelled to long-term care homes in Toronto to entertain residents.

When Irvin retired, Hilda was prepared for her next adventure. They moved to Thornbury (then Collingwood) where she opened her own school, "Allen School of the Performing Arts" named in honour of her mother, Bertha Allen, who was also a fan of theatre.

The school flourished under her management. Classes offered included singing, jazz and tap dancing, theatre and disco dancing. Yes, disco, complete with Danskin leotard and red high heels, she cut up the floor, inspiring her students to "Just dance!" Hilda was a wonderful teacher and her students, many of whom went on to win awards and continue on to pursue careers in theatre, loved her.

Hilda and Irvin moved to Aurora in 1995.

Hilda will be missed by her family, her special friend, Glori Gage, her long-time friend, Edna Newell, nieces and nephews.

Thank you to Elginwood LTC home in Richmond Hill for caring for Hilda, loving her, and celebrating her 100th birthday in style. We will always be thankful for their compassion and friendship.

Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.