Lily Philpott

We are saddened to announce the passing of our mother and grandmother, Lily Philpott of Central Butte, SK on Sunday, October 12th, 2014.  She was predeceased by her son, Glen; husband, Albin; grandson, David; and her husband of 53 years, Edgar.  Lily is survived by her children: Vionne (Reg), Florence (Bob), Rosalie (Ken) and Bill (Winnie); grandchildren: Shara (Jason), Kent (Chantel), Curtis (Julia), Konrad (Crystal), Nicole (Jeremy), Keith (Celeste), Deanna (Chase), Amy and Jon; 12 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Hattie Gane; as well as a large extended family.  Lily was born on March 5th, 1924 at Halvorgate, SK.  She was the youngest daughter of Fredrick and Gertrude Gane.  Lily completed her Grade 12 by correspondence and went on to Normal School to become a teacher.  While teaching at Mona School south of Riverhurst, she met Albin Anderson and they were married in 1944.  Their son, Glen, was born the next year but sadly passed away in 1949.  In the following years, Vionne and then Florence were born.  Soon after Florence was born, Albin became sick with heart problems and in 1957, Lily was left a widow with two young children.  During these difficult years, Lily was forever grateful for the support and help from her family.  “Family is more precious than gold.”  In 1958, she married Edgar Philpott.  Edgar always said he got three for the price of a $5.00 marriage license.  Soon after her marriage to Edgar, Rosalie was born, followed by Bill.  Lily’s life changed drastically as she was pulled into Edgar’s life as a purebred cattle breeder.  Lily was a very shy, reserved young woman who was suddenly put in a position of having strangers dropping in unannounced and of course convinced to stay for lunch.  Lily’s life revolved around unselfish love and support.  Her role as an anchor for Edgar in whatever endeavour he took on and a supportive, loving mother for her four children kept her fulfilled.  She loved to host family gatherings and was an excellent cook.  She played an active role in the community as a 4-H leader, a member of the C.B. Ag Society, active UCW member and in later years, the Central Butte Seniors Club.  In 1980, Edgar and Lily moved to Central Butte.  They became involved in collecting art and opened an art gallery in their basement.  Lily and Edgar had always loved card games and they began playing in bridge tournaments around the province.  They were passionate about their card games and made many new friends through cards.  As Lily’s health deteriorated, she and Edgar moved to Iver Main.  In 2010, she moved into Central Butte Regency Manor where she resided until her passing.  Mom’s family was the most important thing in her life.  Her quiet strength and positive attitude toward life is an inspiration to us all.  She never spoke an unkind word about anyone and always found a bright spot in any situation.  The legacy she has left our family is “Life is too short to quarrel – moments too precious to waste.”  The Funeral Service will be held on Monday, October 20th, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. in Central Butte United Church, Central Butte, SK.  Pastor Doug Neufeld will officiate and interment will take place at Central Butte Cemetery.  As an expression of sympathy, donations in Lily’s name may be made to the Regency Manor Auxiliary for Resident Activities, P.O. Box 361, Central Butte, SK S0H 0T0.  Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane.  Calvin Gammel, Funeral Director 306-693-4550