It is with deep sadness that the family of Mrs. Vera Jean Grills of Didsbury, Alberta, announces her passing on Friday, July 10, 2026, at the age of 99 years. Please join Vera’s family as they celebrate her remarkable life on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Rosebud Community Hall, 1375 Township Rd 314 Didsbury, Alberta. In keeping with Vera’s love of simple things, guests are invited to pick a small handful of their favorite flowers. Together, they will be added to a shared arrangement in her memory.

l guess this is goodbye. I was born in Toronto on November 30, 1926, and I was the oldest of fifteen children, and spent most of my early years in the small village of Everton, Ontario. On March 27, 1948, I married a good man, Dick Grills. Together we raised a family, moved across the country in 1978 and worked hard to build a good life. Whether we were farming, carpet bowling, or travelling, we were happiest just being together. Over the years, I was many things: daughter, sister, aunt, mother of 7, grandmother to 14, great-grandmother to 12, and 3 more made me a great-great-grandmother – a joyous achievement. I was also a farm wife, gardener, writer, and, every now and then, a bit of a troublemaker in all the best ways. Ive had to say goodbye to many people I loved, including my husband, Dick, my sons Frank and John, and many siblings. A long list, but behind every name are memories that live on. Over nearly 100 years, I watched horses give way to tractors and telephones became pocket-sized computers. The world changed in ways I never could have imagined, but family, kindness, and hard work never went out of style. These last few years were spent at Aspen Lodge in Didsbury. l enjoyed reading, doing puzzles, and calling the other residents “youngins.” If you think of me now and then, don’t spend too much time being sad. Instead, read a good book, work in a garden, tell a story, and recall the things that made us laugh. That would suit me just fine.

– Vera

If desired, Memorial donations in Vera’s name may be made to the Heart & Stroke

Foundation at www.heartandstroke.ca. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com. Arrangements in care of Heartland Funeral Services, 1413-21 Avenue, (Didsbury) AB. 403.335.4773.

• Date : 2026-08-01
• Location : Heartland Funeral Services (Didsbury) www.heartlandfuneralservices.com 403.507.8610