LIBBY, Rachel Irene Libby

It is with great sadness that the family of Rachel Irene Libby announces her peaceful passing at Kelowna General Hospital on Friday, December 19, 2025, in her 96th year, following a brief illness.

Irene was born on September 12, 1929, in Toronto, Ontario. At the age of 3, she made a remarkable journey by boat with her sister, Florence, travelling to Ireland to live with her grandparents. Irene was raised in Tandragee, where she spent her childhood before returning to Toronto at the age of 19. Those years in Ireland remained an important part of her story and helped shape her resilience, independence, and quiet strength.

After returning to Canada, Irene met the love of her life, Harry Libby, in 1948. They were married in 1950 and shared 64 years of marriage before Harry’s passing on February 15, 2015. Together, they built a home in Stouffville, Ontario, where they raised their three children, Colleen, Catherine, and Harvey.

Later in life, Irene and Harry sold their Stouffville home and settled in Aurora, Ontario, where Irene spent many happy years surrounded by friends and family. In 2021, she moved to Kelowna, British Columbia, to be closer to her daughters, grandkids, and great-grandkids.

Irene was famously known for her apple pie and shortbread, recipes that became family traditions and were shared generously in the Aurora community. Her greatest joy in life was her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was also a devoted fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Blue Jays, cheering them on faithfully through every season.

Irene was predeceased by her beloved husband, Harry Libby. She is lovingly remembered by her children Colleen Hildebrant (Ken), Catherine Burnham (David), and Harvey Libby (Laura); her seven grandchildren Ryan, Sean, Erin (Kip), Kaitlyn (Joshua), Amanda (Kolton), Connor, and Samantha; and her six great-grandchildren Freya, Athena, Alphie, Riley, Addie, and Huxley.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Kelowna General Hospital, in Irene’s memory.

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