Lorna Evelyn Graham nee Thompson

OBITUARY – Lorna Evelyn Graham (Thompson) 

September 27, 1939 – October 9, 2024

After a brief illness, Mom went to her eternal rest with family by her side in peace of mind knowing she lived a good life and she was truly loved. What she gave to us in the time she shared will help us get through the time now without her. She would want everyone who knew her to remember their good times together and understand how much she loved them too.

Mom was born the youngest of seven children to Lachlan and Ellen Thompson in the Cadursis district south of Basswood. Having six older siblings gave her plenty of opportunity for play and even some mischief, but also lessons in getting along with others and how to be assertive for herself. She grew up there on the family farm always helping from the field work and gardening to raising various poultry, milking cows and working with horses, along with many other tasks. She still found extra time and even some adventures with her favorite animals, the dogs and cats, while enjoying her love of outdoors. Mom also spent her fair share of time in the kitchen baking and becoming a good cook of many delicious meals. She grew up with and understood the values of hard work, honesty, sharing with and respecting others, and the importance of family. Mom was a farm girl at heart, carrying her love of that way of living and love for her animals throughout her life.

After receiving her education from schools at McBride and Basswood as well as at home, she gained employment at different households doing both indoor and outdoor jobs where she learned valuable work and life experience. When she had some free time, she enjoyed participating in sports, dances, fairs and other social functions, visiting with her many friends and relatives and traveling when she could. Mom was very active in reading and open-minded in her thinking, learning about different subjects especially her interest in nature and history. Later in life her ability to remember names, dates, events were much-valued sources of information and sometimes brought about amusing stories with her sense of humour.

Mom’s married life began in November 1965 to Noble Graham in the Pettapiece district north of Rivers where they farmed together for many years, growing crops and keeping various livestock as well as always, a large garden. Their first children were born in August 1966 with twin daughters Evelyn and Myrtle (who died as an infant), followed in July 1968 with son Arthur. Despite her personal loss and the demands of a busy farm life, the care and well being of her family was always her top priority. Mom’s perseverance, selflessness and many sacrifices over the years ensured that we had whatever we needed, especially a wonderful role mode for how to live. Through all the ups and particularly downs of life, Mom was always our center to come back to and no matter what, we were still her children and she loved us just as we are. We were truly blessed to have her as our mother.

Mom was a very social person who made friends easily wherever she was with a warm smile and kind greeting through her genuine nature. A visit with her always meant good conversation, sharing a laugh, and enjoying the company of someone who was glad to be with you. Family, friends and community were the cornerstones of Mom’s life and she always tried to give back as much or more as she received from others. She volunteered her time and energy with numerous organizations throughout her life as well as benefiting various charities. She would often make time to get together with relatives, friends or neighbors for coffee or a good meal, or at the teas and flower shows she enjoyed attending. Road trips were another favorite, whether to fairs, car shows, auctions, family reunions or visits, or just a drive for the scenery especially with her old-time fiddle music playing. Mom enjoyed the simple yet meaningful things in life, lived it the best she could and in her own way made the lives of those around her a bit better. Even in her later years in her time at the Minnedosa PCH she was always friendly and outgoing with the other residents and staff who gave her such wonderful care. She would want everyone who knew her to keep her memory close as part of themselves as she kept everyone she knew as part of herself. Her gentle spirit will live on in the beauty of life. Mom, we will be with you again one day so ‘til then you are forever in our hearts.

Lorna is survived by and deeply missed by her children, daughter Evelyn (Pierre), son Arthur Graham, as well as all her nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents, Lachlan and Ellen Thompson, brothers Alex, Ken, Don, Dave; sisters Dorothy, Jean; husband Noble and infant daughter Myrtle.

A memorial of life officiated by Shirley Martin was held on October 25, 2024 at Basswood following her interment at the cemetery there. Anyone wanting to can make a donation in Lorna’s memory to a charity of their choice.

The family of Lorna Graham send our sincere gratitude to everyone who gave us their support during this difficult time. Thank you so much to all the staff a Minnedosa PCH for the amazing care you gave Mom.

Also, to White’s Funeral Home for your compassion and guidance through our loss. Especially thank you to Esther, Wilma and Ruby for your love and caring for us and Mom. 

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