Obituary of Edna May Gilbert

Surrounded by family and enshrouded in love, our darling Edna, Mama Bear, Gma, and Great Gma passed peacefully from our world on a sunny Friday, May 12, 2023. From her own bed in Kimberley, BC, her spirit parted to the whir of a hummingbird that visited her each day outside her window, bidding its own farewell to our beloved.

 

In her last days, Edna was able to reach out to many of her family and friends to share final thoughts and send her love, letting them know how grateful she was to have had them in her life and that she’d see them again when their time came. She regretted not reaching everyone on her list but she simply ran out of time. Please know that she loved and cared for all of you.

 

Even through her pain and shortness of breath, she focussed on others; their challenges, their aches and pains…never speaking of her own. She always gave graciously of herself, putting others first and genuinely listening what people had to say. There are few so self-less and compassionate. Her authenticity defined her.

 

One cannot put to words how much she will be missed; morning coffee chats, discussions on the state of the world, the environment, and the nature of humankind. She was the wisest person one could hope to meet, and all who knew her are grateful to have been part of her life story.

She was Denny’s “Darling” for over 59 years, holding his hand through all the challenges they faced together, the greatest being the loss of their daughter Chandra in 2006. Their collective strength got them through the loss of their child and further bonded them to each other. Ever faithful, Denny was by Edna’s side, holding her hand and comforting her as she passed, their hearts and spirits forever entwined.

 

Edna is survived by her husband Dennis and son Scott and a loving family of nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchild…with another on the way, and many, many very dear friends. 

 

Edna’s wishes were that any tribute be minimal and without extravagance. A date for a celebration of her life will be selected in the near future. For anyone wishing to come by her Kimberley home, “Chandra-la”, please let Dennis or Scott know and they’ll happily arrange for a visit. Edna wanted the door to her house to remain open to all, and we will abide by that wish the best we can.

 

Edna asked that any donations you wish to make go toward the betterment of our world; a charity for children, support to an environmental cause, or simply to plant a tree, or trees, in her memory.

 

We wish you all peace as you reflect on the life of such an inspiring spirit; one who set a positive example to us all. She will truly be missed.

Peace be your journey. Farewell.