DIGBY, Janet Hope Digby

No one can predict when the end will arrive. Unexpectedly and tragically, Janet Hope Digby was taken from her family and friends on July 8th, 2025, three months shy of her seventieth birthday and at the beginning of a new and exciting chapter in her life; a house full of design possibilities, years of travelling and learning about the world and its structures with her husband Pat, and spending time with her dearest daughter, Sarah, and granddaughter, Wren.

Janet was born and spent her early years in Brantford, Ontario, and attended boarding school in Toronto. After studying English at McGill University and architecture at Architectural Association in London, England, and the University of British Columbia (where she met her husband Pat), Janet’s professional life as an architect, urban designer, and planner found her working for the cities of Vancouver and Richmond. She also headed her own firm in Kelowna.

It’s no wonder that Janet found her niche in the design world. She was the first student in high school to sport earth shoes, replacing the stiff and properly black Oxfords. Always, Janet was a step or two ahead of her less fashion-aware friends.
It’s not to say that Janet didn’t have an adventurous spirit: wading in a Montreal fountain on a hot summer’s day minus few cover garments; working on a farm in France; swimming and skiing, sporting incredible tans when it was acceptable; fishing with Pat and taking up golf.

Janet was devoted to those she loved, her family and lifelong friends. She was there for her mother and brother Jeffrey toward the end of their lives.

Janet leaves her husband, Pat McCusker; daughter Sarah McCusker and granddaughter Wren; and brothers Peter (Senta) and Graham (Julie). She was predeceased by her mother Mary Hope Digby; father Dr. James Digby; and brother Jeffrey (Lolita).

Her laughter, insight, artistry, and empathy will be missed.