Pauline Isabel Graham (nee Baillie) passed away on March 4, 2024, at the age of 97.
Isabel was born on July 29th, 1926, in Merritt, BC, to Melville and Pauline Baillie. She is predeceased by her husband, Lawrence (Laurie) Graham and her son Gerald (Gerry) Graham
She is survived by her daughters Marilyn Silvey and Carol Graham, son Dan (June) Graham, grandchildren Eric (Tina) Silvey, Steven (Shantell) Silvey, Jessica (Troy) Ellis , Carson (Josephine) Graham, and great-grandchildren Makayla, Johnny, Lily, Tommy, James, Matthew and Emma.
Isabel grew up in what is now known as the Baillie House in Merritt. The house is designated as a heritage house and has become a tourist attraction and information centre. Her father and her brother were blacksmiths in the community for many years.
Isabel has family ties to the Steffens and Guichon families, pioneers in the Nicola Valley. Many family members are still living in the area.
Her husband Laurie and his family lived on the Douglas Lake Ranch, and that is where he and Isabel began their married life in 1945. They later moved to Merritt where Laurie eventually owned and operated Laurie’s Auto Service.
Isabel moved to Victoria, BC, after Laurie’s passing.
She lived a long life, surviving her parents and siblings. She lived through times of great change in the world and certainly did so on her own terms. She will be missed.
We wish to thank the Kiwanis Pavilion for their wonderful care of Isabel in her final years.
A private memorial gathering will be celebrated by the family in October. In lieu of flowers please donate to the charity of your choice, with our thanks.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Doug Palylyk
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David Purser My condolences to Carol, Marilyn, and Dan on the passing of your mother. I have fond memories of talking with her in Merritt and Victoria. She was very sensitive, sincere and soft-spoken. May she rest in peace.
So many of my most treasured memories are of your mom and dad. They were very special people. I always will remember and smile when I think back on all the great times that our family had when we would come up for a visit. Your mom and dad always were always so much fun to visit. I can remember sitting at the kitchen table talking about where we were going fishing. Your mom always made sure that we had a good lunch to take with us. That old car of your dad’s took us on many a great fishing adventure. Your mom and dad are truly missed. I always felt that I was a part of your family. My parents thought the world of your parents. l was very sad to hear of your mom’s passing. I will always remember your mom for her kind and always welcoming personality. She was a special person and I will always hold onto the many special memories I have of your mom and dad.