PADGHAM, Isabella (Wright)
Isabella Padgham, 94, of Chilliwack BC passed away on Monday, June 20, 2016 at the Chilliwack General Hospital. She was a loving wife to Sidney Padgham who predeceased her (1989). Isabella is survived by her children; Dennis Padgham (Carolyn), Shirley Gregory (Terry), and Don Padgham; her dear sister Fanny Padgham and Margaret Corbett; five grandchildren; and, eight great grandchildren.
Isabella was born on June 18, 1922 in Scotland to William and Fanny Wright. The Wright family immigrated to Canada when Isabella was four years old. The family settled in Copeau, Saskatchewan. Isabella enjoyed living on the prairies and had many treasured memories of her childhood growing up on the farm. She often recalled fondly riding her horse to school. in 1940, Isabella married Sidney Padgham. Shortly afterwards they moved to Chilliwack. Isabella dedicated her life to her family, The Salvation Army Community Church, and her many friends. She was always the first to volunteer for any event. She would enthusiastically plan family gatherings and as soon as the event was over she was eager to plan another one. She had a special talent for planning creative celebrations. Her love of the outdoors spread to everyone she knew. She was always eager to have a picnic regardless of the weather. Well into her nineties Isabella continued to go to the Salvation Army Camp Sunrise. She was an enthusiastic participant in every aspect of the camp programme. Isabella devoted her life to God. Every year without fail she would volunteer for the Salvation Army Christmas kettles. Through her service to God, Isabella met many people. Many would stop to chat with her and Isabella relished telling her family about her chance encounters. How she loved life! No matter what happened in her day, Isabella would always say "God is good." How we will miss Isabella! Everyone who knew her acknowledges that she was so strong, so resilient, and so eager to share her life with others. In her memory, her family will continue on with the traditional family picnic.
A celebration of Isabella Padgham's life will be held a the Chilliwack Salvation Army Community Church on Saturday, 25 June at 11:00 am. A tea will follow the service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Salvation Army Camp Sunrise. The family would like to thank the Chilliwack Army Community for all their work in coordinating and hosting the celebration of Isabella Padgham's life. They would also like to thank the many relatives and friends who visited Isabella and provided her with their prayers, love, support, and comfort. "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted" Matthew 5:4