Isobel "Sybil" Tait (Robertson) McWhirter

Isobel (Sybil) Tait McWhirter (nee Robertson)

January 6, 1930 to November 1, 2020    

It is with great sadness we announce Sybil’s passing at home in the early morning of November 1 due to complications of old age. Our dear wife, mother, grandmother and sister left us peacefully, just before sunrise. 

Sybil was born in Motherwell, Scotland on January 6, 1930 and lived in nearby Hamilton until leaving for Montreal to join her future husband, Robert. They were married on June 1, 1957. Two years later their eldest daughter, Katherine, was born and, after a brief return to Scotland, two more daughters, Joy and Helen, arrived after the family relocated to Edmonton, Alberta. Twelve winters later the McWhirters moved again, this time to Parksville which reminded both Bob and Syb of the west coast of their beloved homeland.

Together in Parksville, the couple realized their dream of owning a business and operated Belleisle Carpets for 10 years before retiring in 1990.

Sybil and Bob were early members of St. Columba Presbyterian Church. They were active organizers of many church-related activities: Friday afternoon badminton, Wednesday monthly teas for seniors, the Craft Fair, and the annual Burns Supper. Sybil loved hosting large get-togethers at their waterfront home where live Scottish music with singing and dancing were a feature for many years.

Sybil and Bob played golf and curled in Edmonton and also upon arriving on the Island. She was a huge sports fan and would often say she felt sorry for people who didn't like sports as it was often all that was watched on TV in the house.

Sybil was a devoted and loving grandmother to Callum, Isabella and Fiona and was Irene’s much-loved big sister.

The family would like to thank the Oceanside Palliative Care Team for all their help in supporting Sybil’s last days in her own home. They were all so kind and gentle and their dedication is greatly appreciated.

Sybil was a long-time volunteer canvasser for the Canadian Cancer Society. Any donations to that organization in her name would be most welcome.