Edith Grace McCuaig (nee Lipsey)
February 20, 1926 - October 16, 2017
Edith Grace McCuaig (nee Lipsey) of Rossland, B.C. passed away following stroke complications on October 16, 2017.
She was born on February 20, 1926 in Zealandia, Saskatchewan to parents, Robert and Sarah Lipsey.
She is survived by one sister, Beverley Webb of Lloydminster, Alberta , one sister-in-law Helen Lipsey of North Battleford, Saskatchewan and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by brothers Bill, Winse, Guy, and sister, Beryl Dunn.
She was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by her five children: Blair (Janice), Penny (Richard), Blaine (Corri), Guyle (Maggie) and Fairleth (Peter) ; nine grandchildren: Bobby (Jennifer), Alanna (Tyler), Dayna (Kelly), Devin, Amanda, Pierce, Natasha, Sarah, Troy; two step- granddaughters: Alexandra, Raya; and one great-grandchild, Cameron. She was predeceased by one infant son, Robert.
She was predeceased by husband, Robert McCuaig (b. 1913 - d. 1972). They were married from 1945 until his untimely death. She was also recently predeceased by her partner of 32 years, Harvey McKay (b. 1921- d. 2013).
She was a remarkable woman who first taught as a public school teacher in a one-room school house in Saskatchewan. After being widowed young, she raised 5 children with several careers in Rossland, as the Community Librarian, private kindergarten owner and teacher, Insurance Agent, and Notary Public.
She was actively involved in leadership roles in community organizations notably the Deborah Rebekah Lodge where she received their highest honour, Soroptimists, Eastern Star, Phythian Sisters, Royal Canadian Legion and was a member of the Hospital board and Auxiliary. She was president of the Parent-teacher association for many years. She co-ordinated the popular "Over 65" Christmas party for a decade.
She was a talented musician who shared her gift as a pianist willingly. She served as the musician for all of the organizations that she belonged to including being the organist for the Anglican and United Churches. She was in demand as a pianist for community events and played in many dance bands (Mills Combo) and in later life the Rebekah Rhythms (Granny Band).
Always athletic, in her youth, she enjoyed playing softball and horseback riding while in her later years, she was an enthusiastic cross country skier and golfer.
In her retirement, she enjoyed her frequent trips and cruises with Harvey to Hawaii, Mexico and the Caribbean.
She was a woman who possessed great intellect, quick wit, humour, determination to overcome adversity and an indefatigable spirit.
She was always willing to help a person in need and do a good deed - "It never hurts to smile and say hello".
The family would like to thank the staff at Rosewood Village, Trail, B.C. for their kindness and attentive care of our mother during this difficult time.
As requested, there will be no funeral service but a celebration of life followed by interment of remains is planned for the spring of 2018.
Details will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, kindly donate to your charity of choice.