Following a brief illness, Alice passed away peacefully on March 31, 2025, at the Ottawa General Hospital. She was 92.
Alice was born in Halifax and was the youngest of three daughters of Tupper and Helen Hayes. She is predeceased by her husband Gord, and her sisters Shirley (Bob) and Barb (Ron).
Alice leaves behind her children, daughters Pam (Michael), Jan (Paul), sons Keith, Mike (Toby), and her beloved grandsons Declan (Erin) and Aidan Charlton. Her devoted grandsons brought her great joy.
Her circle of friends had diminished, but Tom, Margaret, best friend Marlene, as well as her good neighbours, kept in regular touch. Her maternal nieces and nephews from afar called and communicated regularly.
Alice was fortunate to continue to live in her family home mainly because of the care of her son, Keith.
She was a devout Roman Catholic, a long-time member of the Catholic Women’s League, an active reader at Sunday masses and volunteer at church events. She was also a lifelong volunteer, most recently at the Garry J. Armstrong long-term care home, where she assisted with feeding residents. They were often younger than she was.
Mom was a fabulous baker and enjoyed the pleasure it gave others. She was a mainstay contributor of delicious pies, squares and cookies to church functions, and, for a number of years, her apple pies were featured at a local charity fundraiser. Friends missed her gift baskets of pickles, jams and best-ever chow chow when it got beyond her. She continued Christmas baking until the end.
Alice said it like she saw it. She enjoyed a glass of wine, a spirited game of cards, a hearty laugh with good friends, and the quiet times she spent as a voracious reader. She also loved to shop, and will be remembered for her high sense of fashion and always being dressed for the occasion.
The family is beyond grateful to the multidisciplinary teams of doctors and many nurses on the fifth floor of the General Hospital, who did everything they could to get mom back on her feet.
Mom was concerned about the less fortunate, and in the last few years donated regularly to helping organizations. If you are so inclined, a donation to the Ottawa Food Bank in her name would be appreciated.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Theresa Church, 95 Somerset St. West, on Saturday, April 26 at 11:00 am.
Digital Guestbook
Christine and Glenn Albert
Barbara & Keith Gibb
Alice & Gord would visit us at the cottage we purchased from them. I would make her a fruit filled glass of wine & we would talk & laugh for hours. She always looked beautiful. I cherish the memories of this beautiful woman & Gord.
Janice (Brown) Dowling
I’m sad to hear about your mother’s passing. I have fond memories of Mrs Hilchie, and of course, Mr Hilchie. They were dear friends of my parents, George and Eileen Brown. I spoke with Alice last September when my mother died. Alice was a reader at my wedding 36 years ago. My deepest condolences to your family. She was a lovely lady who touched my heart.
Betty Ward
My sincere sympathy to all the family. I knew Alice and Gord from St. Brigid's Church and Saint Theresa's Church. Two beautiful people. I shall miss them.
Miguel Planas and Denise McKenna
It is with deep sadness that we heard the news of the passing of our dear friend and neighbour Alice. Over many years we shared wonderful meals, swapped stories and enjoyed the company of Alice, Gord and the rest of the Hilchie family. Our consolation is the knowledge that both Alice and Gord are surely in God’s heaven reaping the harvest of lives well lived.
Unfortunately we are out of the country and will not be able to attend Alice’s funeral. We offer our deepest condolences to the entire Hilchie family. We will be there with you in spirit. God bless you all.
…Miguel and Denise
Our deepest sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Alice was such a lovely lady and a dear and cherished friend to my parents Gerry and Henriette Brassard for many, many years.