Hilary Weston, an esteemed Irish-Canadian fashion mogul and the former lieutenant-governor of Ontario, has passed away at the age of 83. Known for her dedication to women's issues, volunteerism, and youth, Weston's family released a statement on Sunday, celebrating her enduring generosity and commitment to helping others.
Her son, Galen Weston Jr., who is the chairman and former president of Loblaw Companies Ltd., described his mother as "brilliant, brave, compassionate, and beautiful." He emphasized her remarkable contributions to public service, philanthropy, and her business career, stating, "Her greatest joy was the life she created for her family and friends—filled with warmth, love, and fun."
Borne in Ireland on January 12, 1942, Weston was the eldest of five children. To support her widowed mother and younger siblings, she began her career as a fashion model. In 1966, she married W. Galen Weston, who is commonly known as Galen Weston Sr., and later relocated to Toronto in the 1970s.
Weston enjoyed a successful decade working with luxury brands such as Holt Renfrew, Brown Thomas & Co., and the Selfridges Group starting in 1986. Brown Thomas praised her on social media as a "truly remarkable person," highlighting her vision and enduring support for Irish culture and enterprise, which laid the foundation for the success they enjoy today.
Her philanthropic endeavors included initiatives from the Weston Family Foundation and the Hilary and Galen Weston Foundation, which continued after her husband's death in April 2021, after 55 years of marriage. The Westons are among Canada’s wealthiest families, closely associated with the Loblaw grocery store chain. Furthermore, she co-authored two books focusing on homes and gardens.
Weston's public service career peaked when she became Ontario's lieutenant-governor in 1997, a position she held until 2002. During her tenure, she focused on celebrating the contributions made by volunteers, women, and youth. Ontario Premier Doug Ford took to social media to honor her as a "trailblazer and devoted public servant."
Edith Dumont, Ontario's current lieutenant-governor, remarked on one of Weston's key achievements: the establishment of the Lieutenant Governor’s Community Volunteer Awards, which recognize unsung heroes dedicated to serving their communities. Dumont expressed that Weston's legacy would be remembered with "deep appreciation and gratitude." Elizabeth Dowdeswell, who held the position of lieutenant-governor from 2014 to 2023, also commended Weston’s graciousness and her outstanding dedication to the province.
Honored with the Order of Canada in 2003 for her remarkable achievements and commitment to community service, Weston was the second woman to receive this prestigious award. In their family statement, her daughter, Alannah Weston Cochrane, shared that her mother embraced challenges and possessed elegance and high standards, matched only by her warmth and sense of humor. Alannah highlighted Weston's vision, work ethic, and her belief in individuals as qualities that facilitated her exemplary leadership.
Irish Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris expressed his deep sadness over Weston's passing, noting that she was a proud Irish-Canadian who served both Ireland and Canada with distinction and generosity. He extended sincere condolences to her children, Alannah and Galen, along with the entire Weston family.
This report underscores the impactful legacy left by Hilary Weston, whose life was characterized by a dedication to serving her communities and nurturing the next generation.
