Vera Dorothy Gillingham

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Vera Dorothy Gillingham

(nee ATKINSON)

Our beloved Mom, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother, Vera Dorothy Gillingham of Belmont, Manitoba passed peacefully on Friday, December 26, 2025.

Vera was born April 30, 1935. Her 90 years brought her a long line of people who will forever cherish her memory.

Her children: Simon (Shelley), Mary, Andrew (Vicki), John (Eunmi) and Matthew (Tanis) Grandchildren: Corey (Liisa), Dirk (Jody), Devon (Marlo) and Dallas (Vic) [Simon], Lynnea (Dallas) and Shauna (Nick) [Andrew], Iris (Gabriel), Olivia and Sophia [John], Kelcey, Mitch, Alyssa and Ethan [Matthew] Great-Grandchildren: Cole, Kyle, Haze, Kalem, Kinsey, Hunter, Isla, Wyatt and Chase Nephews and Nieces in England: Barry, Susan, Graham and Rosemary.

Vera was predeceased by her parents Bert and Mary Atkinson, her sister Janet, brother-in-law Maurice Green and partners John and Jim.

Born and raised in England, she grew up during the Second World War. It was during these difficult years that Vera’s courageous and independent nature was forged.

At just 18 years of age Vera enlisted in the British Army Reserve. At age 20 she married (John Gillingham) and just two years later, along with Simon and Mary, boarded the Cunard Line passenger ship bound for Canada.

Vera’s young family initially lived in Quebec followed by a move to the prairies and eventually ending up in Glenboro. It was here that Vera raised her children along with many foster children over the years. She always made sure all were loved and cared for, despite working full time shifts as a Health Care Aide. She continued to progress in her career, taking Operating Room Technician courses and retired in 1995 as Department Head of Housekeeping at Glenboro Hospital.

Vera loved music and passed this passion and talent down to her children and grandchildren. As a self-taught multi-instrumentalist, she began with the violin. For many years, she played saxophone, accordion, and the organ in local community bands. Her artistic talents were also on display in the lovely paintings she created.

Vera’s adventurous spirit had her take flying lessons, run for town council, and make multiple trips back to England and one to Australia. Her kind and loving nature was evident by the many cats, dogs, and horses she nurtured.

We will all miss your endearing greeting, “Hi Lovey.” You will continue in our memories and will forever be in our hearts.

A Celebration of a life well-lived will take place in the summer. Further details will be shared with family and friends.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at the Baldur Health Centre for their care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers and in memory of Vera, donations can be made to the Children’s Wish Foundation, 350 St. Mary Avenue Winnipeg, MB, R3C 3J2.

Online condolences can be sent to the Gillingham family by visiting Vera’s profile page at www.willmorchapel.com.

Jamieson’s Funeral Services of Glenboro-Holland in care of arrangements.

As published in Brandon Sun on Jan 03, 2026