August 10, 1928 - September 10, 2018
Florence Ruby Gilbert, age 90, formerly of Kelowna BC, peacefully passed away on the morning of September 10, 2018 in the company of her loving husband and son. Florence was born August 10, 1928 in Edinburgh, Scotland, and moved to Canada in 1956. She shared two sons (Paul Gilbert and Sean Gilbert) with her husband, John Gilbert, whom she has been married to for over 58 years since their wedding in June 1960. Florence worked as a Court Administrator before working her way up to become the Executive Director of Court Services for the province of British Columbia. She also spent ten years as the Chairman (but she preferred the title "Chairperson") of the Cranbrook School Board. She enjoyed a long and illustrious career before retiring in 1993; she had many fond memories of the people she met over the years and their excellence in serving our Justice System.
Florence was kind, gentle and passionate person. She loved to read (especially mystery novels), watch the news, discuss politics, listen to music, attend church, and she especially enjoyed travelling with her husband. Florence advocated for feminism and believed that everyone should take care of their physical health by staying as active as possible. She was proud of her Scottish heritage, and was fondly known as the "Scottish Lass from Edinburgh". Florence encouraged, inspired and supported her children and grandchildren throughout their educational endeavors and personal achievements.
Florence will be lovingly remembered by her husband, John Gilbert, her son, Paul Gilbert, her grandchildren (Dal, Graeme, Anya, Stuart, Kassia, Cameron, Liam and Nehara), and her great-grandchildren (Wesley, Lewis, and Claire). Florence was predeceased by her son, Sean Gilbert.
We would like to express our thanks to the staff at Brookhaven Extended Care Home in Westbank, Kelowna.
A memorial for Florence will be held on a future date.
Condolences may be sent to her family at 1642 Griffiths Pl., West Kelowna BC, V1Z 2T7.