November 7, 1940 - August 24, 2014
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a great lady; our mum, nana, sister and friend, Rita Williams.
Mum was born in Hayes, Middlesex in 1940 and was the eldest of four sisters.
She emmigrated to Canada in 1975 with her young family and although she would remain here for her entire life, her heart belonged to England.
Rita was a warrior, environmentalist, humanitarian and an overall tremendous person.
She worked tirelessly to help preserve wildlife, wetlands, bird sanctuaries and the heritage of the countryside. When she wasn't running her fantastic hiker's group in Gibsons, she could be found protesting the BC Ferries, marching to protect "Gospel Rock" or just enjoying the outdoors either bird watching or working in her garden.
Mum was an avid reader, knitter, singer and Scottish country dancer and we know that everyone's lives that Rita touched are better for it, as she was one remarkable person.
She was predeceased by her beloved Michael and leaves behind her mother Iris, sisters Julie (Ken), Jeanette and Valerie, children, Joanne (Kevin), Paul (Heidi) and Helen, her much loved grandchildren; Nicole, Sam, Jesse, Kristian, Zoe and Rowan along with her co-parent Adrienne and many dear friends on the Sunshine Coast, Vancouver and the UK.
A celebration of her life will be held at Harmony Hall in Gibsons, Saturday, November 8 from 2:30pm-4:30pm.
Flowers gratefully declined but a donation may be made in her name to the BC Cancer agency or the David Suzuki Foundation.
May she hike in peace.