THOMAS ASHLEY CHESTER

The Honourable Thomas Ashley Chester (August 23, 1946 - March 6, 2026) It is with overwhelming sadness that we announce the passing of The Honourable Thomas Ashley Chester, who died on March 6, 2026, of pneumonia. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Ashley lived a life defined by intellectual exploration, curiosity, and an abiding commitment to social justice and the well-being of others. Ashley was raised in the Charleswood community of Winnipeg, where his father was the Golf Professional at the Charleswood Golf Club and his mother served as editor of a chain of weekly newspapers. Throughout his school years, he worked at the club Pro Shop and as a groundskeeper. He could hit a beautiful long ball, though he never took the game quite seriously enough to pursue it with discipline; a reflection of his ability to take life lightly and with perspective. He attended the University of Manitoba, where his interest in political science flourished and led him to active involvement in campus politics. A skilled debater and writer, he relished the intellectual exercise of a good argument; capable of contending multiple points of view, he yet remained remarkably tolerant of, and curious about, the views of others. After university, Ashley spent two decades in Toronto, working extensively in the development of non-profit and cooperative housing; work that reflected his lifelong commitment to fairness, community, and social purpose. In 1998, he moved to British Columbia to join the team at BC Housing, where he continued contributing to housing initiatives that benefited communities across the province. Ashley served with good humour and generosity as Vice-Regal Consort of British Columbia from 2018 to 2025, alongside his wife, The Honourable Janet Austin, 30th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia. Whether attending community celebrations, supporting charitable initiatives, or welcoming guests to Government House, Ashley was known for his genuine interest in people and his curiosity about their histories, experiences and perspectives. He enjoyed his role enormously. A voracious reader, Ashley possessed broad and enduring interests in history, economics, politics, literature, and culture. Intelligent and erudite, he was widely appreciated for his sharp wit, thoughtful conversation, and unfailing ability to envision creative opportunities to advance economic equality and improve social conditions. He found pleasure and purpose in helping others to pursue these goals and built deep friendships that he cherished throughout his life. Ashley also served as the loyal companion to MacDuff Austin-Chester, the charming and self-confident West Highland White Terrier who ruled Government House with unquestioned authority; together, they played a key role in welcoming visitors to Government House and the grounds. Ashley was predeceased by his parents, Margot and Tommy Chester; and his sister, Charlotte Laviolette (Sid). He is lovingly remembered by his wife, The Honourable Janet Austin; his sister, Carole Chester; his niece, Dayna Laviolette; his nephew, Travis Laviolette; Lyn Wright and Kate Hemblen; and the many friends whose lives he touched with his wit and keen intelligence. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Ashley's memory may be made to YWCA BC or Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland; organizations whose commitment to strengthening communities reflect values he deeply admired and shared.