Gloria Irene (Prosser) Tillapaugh

Gloria Irene Tillapaugh (Prosser), passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on May 7, 2026, with her daughters lovingly by her side. Born in Shenstone, Albert County, New Brunswick, on November 3, 1939, Gloria carried the spirit of home with her wherever life took her.

Gloria spent her early years in Shenstone before moving west in her early twenties. After a short time in Alberta, she and her husband David settled in Powell River, British Columbia, where they raised their family and built a life filled with love, laughter, and open doors.

To so many, Gloria’s home became much more than just a house. It was a gathering place, a safe haven, and a second home to many of her daughters’ friends. There was always room around her table, always a listening ear, and always the comfort of knowing that if someone needed help, Gloria would be there without hesitation. Her kindness was genuine and freely given, and many people found comfort and support under her roof over the years.

Her love for children extended far beyond her own family. Gloria devoted time to leading Brownie groups and working with Cadets, and she found great joy in encouraging and caring for young people throughout her life.

Later, after the girls had grown, Gloria and David moved to Chilliwack to be closer to their daughters, grandchildren, and the family she treasured so deeply.

Gloria loved people. She had a wonderful sense of humour, loved sharing a funny story, and could always find a reason to laugh. Her generosity was simply part of who she was. The saying "she would give you the shirt off her back" truly described Gloria. If she had something and someone else needed it, it was theirs without a second thought. If you mentioned loving one of her meals, she would either make it for you or send you home with the ingredients and instructions so you could make it yourself. Whether helping someone at her door or quietly slipping money into a donation box, Gloria gave from the heart and never expected anything in return.

She loved the outdoors and spent many happy years camping, fishing, and enjoying nature with David and the family. Gardening brought her endless joy, and every spring she looked forward to getting outside and "digging in the dirt," as she liked to say. Her flower beds were a reflection of the care and attention she poured into everything she loved.

Although Gloria spent most of her life on the west coast, Albert County and Shenstone always remained home in her heart. She spoke of it often, cherished every return visit, and carried those roots with her throughout her life.

Family was the centre of Gloria’s world. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren brought her endless pride and happiness. Whether near or far, she loved each of them deeply and treasured every moment spent together.

True to herself right to the end, Gloria made her final journey on her own terms, peacefully at home, surrounded by many of the people she loved most, with "Take Me Home, Country Roads," softly playing in the background.

Gloria was predeceased by her beloved husband, David Tillapaugh; her parents, Bernard and Hazel Prosser; her brother, Fred Prosser; her son, Rod Prosser; and her grandson, Jessie Thomson.

She leaves behind her loving children, Tracey (Lewis Knowlton), Trudy Hall (Joe Hall), Kim McKenzie, and Earlene Thomson, along with her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her sister, Joyce Hopper; brothers, Tom Prosser and Bradley Prosser; sister-in-law, Anne Prosser; daughter-in-law, Susan Prosser; sister-in-law, Janet (Allen) Nielsen; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss her greatly.

And in true Gloria fashion, with humour even in her final days, she told her family with a laugh, "If you’re looking for a sign from me, look to the skies for a bolt of lightning, that’ll be me."

Honouring Gloria's own wishes there will be no visitation or funeral service.

For those who wish donations to the Shenstone Cemetery or charity of the donor's choice in her memory would be appreciated by the family.