Hilary Weston, a well-known Irish Canadian leader, businesswoman, and former lieutenant-governor of Ontario, has passed away at the age of 83. She is remembered for her deep love for people, her work for the community, and her strong support for women, youth, and volunteers.
Her family said in a statement on Sunday that she lived a life full of kindness and care for others. Her son, Galen Weston Jr., said, “Our mother gave her life to helping others and building a happy family. She was smart, strong, kind, and full of love.”
Hilary Weston was born on January 12, 1942, in Ireland. She was the oldest of five children. After her father passed away, she became a fashion model to help support her mother and younger siblings. In 1966, she married Galen Weston Sr., and they moved to Toronto, Canada, in the 1970s.
In Canada, Hilary worked in the fashion business. She spent 10 years with Holt Renfrew, Brown Thomas, and Selfridges Group, which are all well-known clothing and department stores. Later, she also became a writer and co-wrote two books about homes and gardens.
In 1997, she was chosen to be lieutenant-governor of Ontario. This is a special role where a person represents the Queen in the province. She worked in this position until 2002, during which she supported volunteers, young people, and women's rights. She was only the second woman to be appointed to this role.
In 2005, Hilary Weston was given the Order of Canada. This is one of the country’s highest honors, given to people who do great work for their communities and for Canada. She received this award for her hard work and commitment to helping others.
Hilary and her husband Galen Weston Sr. also supported many charity works. They started the Weston Family Foundation and the Hilary and Galen Weston Foundation. These foundations support many causes such as health, education, and youth development.
After her husband died in 2021, Hilary continued her charity work with her children. The Weston family is also known for their strong connection to Loblaw, one of the largest grocery store chains in Canada. They are among the wealthiest families in the country.
Hilary’s daughter, Alannah Weston Cochrane, said her mother was elegant and kind but also strong and hardworking. “She had big dreams and worked hard to make them real. She believed in people and helped them grow,” she said.
Irish Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris said he was “deeply saddened” by her passing. He said Hilary Weston was a proud Irish Canadian and had done a lot to build strong ties between Ireland and Canada.
In her life, Hilary Weston wore many hats — as a model, businesswoman, writer, leader, and caring mother. She showed the world how one person can make a big difference through kindness, courage, and hard work.
She met many world leaders, including Prince Charles (now King Charles III), and made a lasting impression on people wherever she went. Whether she was writing a book, helping a young student, or leading a public role, she did it with grace and care.
Hilary Weston’s life is a story of service, strength, and love. She leaves behind a legacy that will inspire many generations to come.
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