Obituary of Lillian (Lil) Mary HOLTON (nee Ashton)

September 8, 1924 – Calgary, Alberta
January 6, 2020 – Calgary, Alberta

Lillian (Lil) Mary Holton passed away peacefully in her home on Monday, January 6, 2020. She loved puttering in her garden and shovelling snow in the moonlight. At age 95, she remained strong-willed and staunchly independent. Lil’s passing occurred where, when, and how she planned her life to end. 

Lil is survived by her daughter, Donna; son, Gordon (Kristin Morrison); her granddaughter Caitlin (Scott MacDonald); and her great-grandchildren, Euan, Philippa, and Clementine. Her nephew Ed Johnson was a particular comfort to her in later life, and she relished her many lunches and time spent with him. Lil enjoyed the opportunity to say goodbye to her many nieces and nephews before she died. Lil had strong bonds to her neighbours and appreciated all the help and friendship they gave her. Lil was predeceased by her husband, Bobbie Holton (2003), and her granddaughter, Sara Sylvia Holton (2018).

As per Lil’s request, there will be no funeral, memorial service, or flowers. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, 15 Colonel Baker Place N.E., Calgary, AB T2E 4Z3 Telephone: (403) 261-7219, www.cnib.ca, or to the charity of the donor’s choice. Lil took a great deal of pleasure in the simple beauty nature offered: the sway of tall grasses in the wind, the black and white flicker of magpies flying by, the wild crocuses in the spring, and – especially – the glow of the moon. Let these be her memorial. 

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Lil’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.