Hilda Bertha Ball (née Northmore)

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Hilda Ball (née Northmore), who passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026, at Clayton Heights Care Community in Surrey, British Columbia, at the remarkable age of 102.

Hilda was born on May 30, 1924, in Thornton Heath, Surrey, England, to John J. Northmore and Katherine Emily (Fitch) Northmore. She grew up in England alongside her siblings, Bob, Bert, Mac, Katie, and Doreen, all of whom predeceased her.

It was during the Second World War that she met the love of her life, Walter Ball, a Canadian soldier. They were married in 1943, beginning a partnership built on love, resilience, and devotion. Following their marriage Hilda proudly served the Allied war effort as a member of the Canadian Women’s Army Corps (CWAC), working at Canada House in Trafalgar Square, London.

Hilda was proud to be one of Canada’s English War Brides, arriving from England in 1946 after marrying her Canadian soldier, Walter. She belonged to a remarkable generation of women whose courage and determination helped build new lives and families across Canada. At the time of her passing, she was among the very few remaining War Brides of her generation—a living link to an extraordinary chapter in Canadian history.

Together they built a home and raised a loving family. Hilda was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose kindness, quiet strength, and unwavering love for her family were evident throughout her life. She found joy in family gatherings, treasured time spent with her children and grandchildren, and took great pride in watching future generations grow.

Hilda was predeceased by her beloved husband, Walter Ball, in 1976.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Terri Lylick, Doreen Andrews (Charlie), Steve Ball (Heather), and Arlene Griffiths (Craig); her seven grandchildren; her eight great-grandchildren; and by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends whose lives she touched with her warmth, grace, and gentle spirit.

Having lived through more than a century of extraordinary world events, Hilda exemplified courage, perseverance, and compassion. From her service during wartime to the life she built in Canada, she leaves behind a legacy of strength, dedication, and unconditional love for her family.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near”