Aldyth May Swainson

SWAINSON, Aldyth May Aldyth May Swainson passed away peacefully in her sleep at home on Tuesday, September 20, 2022. Predeceased by her husband Neil, Aldyth is survived by sons John (Linda), Neil (Anna), Andrew (Laura) and Donald (Tracy) as well as 8 grandchildren (Alexa, Ian, Erica, Harry, Rachel, Luca, Katherine and Alexander) and 6 great-grandchildren (Lucas, Charlie, Vivien, Audrey, Emilia and Isla). Born on December 4, 1923 in Golden, BC, Aldyth was the first in her family to go to university (UBC), and went on to do graduate studies at the Sorbonne in Paris. She started her teaching career in Prince George before coming to Victoria, where she met and married Neil in 1953. Over the years she was an active French teacher, as well as a wife and mother. A member of First Metropolitan United Church, she also served on the board of Norfolk House School, and was for many years a member of PEO. She did it all with great dignity, humour and tireless energy. A lifelong francophile, she loved teaching and speaking French, her main regret in life being that little of her skills with languages rubbed off on her children. Great thanks go out to all the caregivers, friends and family members who helped her stay in her home as she aged. While she was physically frail in her later years, Mom never lost her keen intellect, her love of books and reading and her love of her family. She will be deeply missed. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallgardens.com