Mrs. Brenda Ada Taylor

It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce the passing of Brenda Ada Taylor (nee Campbell) on October 21, 2024. She is survived by her husband Alan, children Charlene, Cindy and Rod, grandchildren Ryan and Erica, great grandchildren Colton and Blake, siblings Liz, Lorna and Lorne and nieces and nephews. Born on December 4, 1938, she was the daughter of Sam and Brenda Campbell and predeceased by siblings Andy, Susan, Percy, Selina, Marina, Rita and Marie.

Brenda was a member of the Heiltsuk Nation and was well known for her work in the Indigenous community. She was a leader whose experiences and accomplishments have had a profound impact on those around her. She was a Native Home School Co-ordinator for the Vancouver School Board. She initiated the Native Indian Youth Advisory Society and was a founder of the Native Youth Program of the University of British Columbia’s Museum of Anthropology. She has raised funds and developed many programs to further Indigenous education.

She was a great believer that students are our future leaders. She helped organize numerous educational conferences geared towards Indigenous youth and educators. The conferences played a vital role in promoting culture and dialogue among the participants.

Brenda’s accomplishments earned the respect and recognition of her family, community, peers and colleagues. She was a member of the Canadian Human Rights Commission and received a Confederation medal on Canada’s 125th birthday. She was included in various newspaper articles and book publications including “Portraits, Canadian Women in Focus” and “Chronicles of Pride – A Journey of Discovery”. She was also nominated by the Native Brotherhood for the YWCA’s Humanitarian award in 1990.

Brenda was an energetic, outspoken and caring person. She was a woman of vision whose hard work, perseverance and dedication benefited many. We will always love and miss this amazing woman. She was a warrior, a fighter, a protector and our rock. Love you forever.

This is a poem written by Brenda's husband, Alan Taylor.

My Brenda

Over sixty years went past – all in the blink of an eye,

For time waits for no one – no matter how hard we try.

During all these years – your keen dedication I could see,

Oh how deftly you managed – just putting up with me.

Brenda you had many likes, and also so many wishes,

Among your dislikes – including doing all the dishes.

Though your bingo and slots rated up there with me,

Colton and Blake always remained your top priority.

Bugs and dogs – always among your aversions and fears,

Still remained your top dislikes - during all these years.

You supported family, friends and even artists I insist,

Both Louis Armstrong and Elvis topped the artists’ list.

I find myself looking, looking – longingly into the sky,

Looking for you, my Brenda – with a tear in my eye.

Looking for Brenda my woman, my soulmate, my wife,

The one who always loved me, giving meaning to life.

Over 60 years of hit and miss – 60 years of total bliss,

To you up there in heaven, I blow you this little kiss.

My Brenda I miss you, more than one could be guessing,

I send you my heart and my soul, and also God’s blessing.

Have you ever wondered what made our marriage happy?

Laughing, crying, wrangling – and the odd little nappy.

To you my Brenda, I have this little message to send,

I wish to thank you, my love – for being my best friend.

Alan Taylor, November 2024