MORGAN
Hilda Stevenson Morgan (nee Forbes) was born April 12, 1932 in Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, Scotland and passed away peacefully in her sleep December 25, 2007, in Campbell River, BC, Canada.
With joy we celebrate Hilda’s life and sadly announce her slipping away in the small hours between this Christmas Eve and Christmas Day past.
In the village of Inverurie in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, our mother entered this world fifth in the line of ten children born to Mary (Melvin) and Gordon Forbes. At age fourteen, during WWII, Mum began her working life at a factory near Inverurie. She was—and was forever—a most competent and diligent employee. A daughter faithful and true, she gave to her mother all of her weekly earnings so as to maintain the large and flourishing Forbes family. Though life during the war years were difficult for all, Hilda, as well as her brothers and sisters, consistently contributed to the family’s welfare. In doing so, her family ties were close and loving, and continue to be so.
Our Mum was a born adventurer. In her early twenties, she embarked on her life’s journey, thanks to a modest inheritance willed to her by a generous aunt. Aboard one of Cunard’s famous ships, the “The Empress of France,” she sailed to Canada. Upon her arrival in Ottawa, she resided with her elder sister Janet. Due to Hilda’s innate honesty and integrity, she was employed by the Royal Canadian Mint.
Hilda married James Clark Morgan in 1957. They had three children, Michael James, Constance Mary, and Cindy May. Years later, the couple separated and eventually divorced. However, Hilda, still strong and forever undefeated, was determined to resume her nomadic life—this time on her own and with aplomb. In order to remain close to her immediate family, and as well to her large extended family (and many, many friends,) she relocated various times between BC, Ottawa, and Scotland.
During Hilda’s lengthy stay in Ottawa throughout the 90’s and 2000, she was initiated and subsequently became very involved in the Sons of Scotland, a fraternal association for Scottish people and their descendants that promotes and preserves Scottish culture in Canada. Hilda was a well-respected participant. At monthly meetings and at the annual Burns Supper, she acted as standard bearer, an honourable position which metaphorically represented her values and interests; she always kept a St. Andrews flag in a place of pride in her home. Moreover, she believed in carrying on a legacy that kept alive the traditions of Scottish history, literature, and music. How she loved her music! From traditional to pop, she would dance and sing along to almost any musical genre— from Abba to the Alexander Brothers. All in all, she believed that life should be lived fully, day to day, and that life should be full of fun. She made so many people laugh; as well, she wasn’t above laughing at herself. She will be missed by her peers and dear friends at the “SOS.”
Just two months ago, Hilda moved back from Scotland to live with her children and grandchildren on Vancouver Island. She moved permanently to Campbell River, and was so happy to be united with her daughters and grandchildren. At this point in her life, she literally lived to bring her family closer together. In the short time she spent here in Campbell River, she brightened the lives of her family with her laughter and beautiful smile. She was just getting to know her grandchildren, and was a wonderful support to her daughter Cindy. She began to attend the Ocean Crest Salvation Army church; her enthusiasm at the Christmas Kettle Campaign and as a greeter at the church will never be forgotten—she was truly a joyous woman!!
Left to carry on her spirit are her children Michael, Connie, and Cindy. Her grandchildren, whom she adored and lived for, mourn her now and will forever. James, Travis, Amanda, Samantha, Melissa, Sarah, Emma, and Alexander will forever keep Hilda (“Gramma”) in their hearts and memories.
Hilda is also survived by her siblings in Scotland: Nan, Gladys, Jean, Pat, and Ronnie. She was predeceased by her infant sister and brother, Helen and Duncan, as well as by her elder sister Janet, her elder brother Gordon, and his sons Gordon, Maurice, and Ronald. As well, Hilda leaves behind many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews. In Ottawa, Jenny, Sheila, Janice, Johnny, and Ruthie will miss Hilda beyond words; she was in her way the heart of the family after the passing of their mother Janet. Also in Ontario, Hilda will be fondly remembered in Cambridge by another niece named Sheila, Sheila Stark. Sheila and her children will undoubtedly remember their Auntie Hilda who loved to sing, dance, and generally have a good time. Scottish nieces and nephews Alison, Donald, Roderick, Lyn—and any children of the above—will always cherish memories of their Aunt Hilda. Many more grand-nieces and nephews, and a great number of friends all around the world grieve for Hilda, a woman at times fiercely determined—but oh so kind-hearted.
A Memorial Service will take place at the Salvation Army Ocean Crest Church, 291 McLean Street, Campbell River, BC, on Friday January 4, 2008 at 11:00 AM. A Reception will follow in Fellowship Hall.
Sutton’s Campbell River
Funeral Home
In Care of Arrangements
(250) 287-4812