Mary Graydon Horton

It is with profound sorrow that we share that Mary Graydon Horton passed on January 20, 2025. Mary was predeceased by her beloved husband of 76 years, Charles Robert Horton on August 11, 2022. Mary is survived by her children Curtis (Vicky), Tracey Pratt (Graham), John (Hanneke) and Shawn; granddaughters Amanda Rolleman (Peter), Crystal, Kimberley and Tasia; great grandsons Ryan and Wesley Rolleman; and several nieces and nephews.

Mom was born in Paisley, Scotland, the eldest child of John Burns Shaw and Mary Graydon (Kelly) Shaw. Mom was predeceased by her brother, John Burns Shaw, Jr in 2016 and her sister, Elizabeth (Betty) Hamilton Semple Cochran in 2005.

Mom was a young woman vacationing from her job in a milliner shop, enjoying a day at the beach in Ayr, Scotland with her girlfriends when she was approached by a brash young Canadian sailor on leave. That was the beginning of a love story that would survive over 76 years.

In 1946, along with thousands of other war brides, Mom boarded a ship bound for Pier 21 in Halifax and then a train destined for British Columbia. One can only imagine how daunting such a journey was for a lass of only 17! Upon arrival in Kamloops Mom and Dad purchased and operated a general store until Dad enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force and then they moved around the country  too many times to count  as they grew their family. Being a military wife and embracing the challenges this creates on a spouse and family is further testament to Mom’s strength and courage!

Upon Dad’s retirement from the RCAF in 1969 the family settled in Kamloops. Over the ensuing years Mom and Dad owned and operated several small businesses in Kamloops, Oliver and Penticton. Dad and Mom made their final retirement to Langley in 2004 and then enjoyed many years traveling with family. Mom especially loved her time in Maui and Florida, and returning to the old country to visit extended family.

Mom’s early love of fashion that had her working in a milliner shop as a teenager was evident throughout her life. She loved to shop and was always dressed to the nines! Mom was an avid gardener creating a beautiful oasis in their Penticton yard! Mom also loved her dogs – of which there were many over the years.

We wish to express our deepest gratitude to the staff at Chartwell Langley Gardens for the years of loving care and support they provided to Mom.

No service by request. Mom and Dad’s ashes will be returned to the beach where they met. In lieu of flowers we ask that you perform a random act of kindness for a senior.