Beatrice (Buckley) Parlby

Alix

1903-1989

Description

Life and Work

In 1974, Bea Parlby published Pioneers and Progress, bringing together 40 years of research on the experience of the early settlers in Alix and district.

The daughter-in-law of Irene Parlby, Bea graduated from the University of Alberta, majoring in Agriculture and in the following year obtained her teacher's certificate. She continued the family's concern for farm and rural life as president of the Alix local of the United Farm Women of Alberta (UFWA). She taught school and acted as a Guide leader, maintaining a camp at the Parlby farm for youth groups. Beatrice retired from teaching in 1970.

Bea loved to sing and entertain, she and her husband Humphrey took part in many drama productions. After her husband's death, she continued to live on the farm and died in 1989, while tending her flowers.

"She loved teaching. She was good at it. Her students were taught to explore, question, acquire knowledge and solve problems... they came to appreciate drama, art and music. We remember the lilt of her Irish laughter and appreciated her comradeship. She cared deeply for her family, her friends and her community, wherever she found them throughout the world. " - Geoff, Gerry and Susan Parlby

Memoirs

Through The Eyes of Her Children

"Mum" had a deep and abiding faith that sustained her throughout her life. Her honesty, integrity, tolerance for others and sense of responsibility were standards which we all looked up to. She cared deeply for her family, her friends, and her communities, wherever she found them throughout the world. She always enjoyed a social gathering, especially at Dartmoor.

She loved teaching. She was good at it. She was helpful, understanding and patient. Her students, including her own children, were taught to explore, question, acquire knowledge and solve problems. They were encouraged to love and appreciate drama, art and music.

Throughout her life she managed change and adversity. She managed them well.

We remember the lilt of her Irish laughter and her love of humour. We appreciated her comradeship. She was a special friend to Susan.

She loved and embraced life and nature. She challenged us to embrace it too. She was an inspiration to all of us.

-Geoff, Gerry and Susan


Associated Member Museum: Alix Wagon Wheel Museum