It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Stephanie Ahearn Carlson. She died quietly and peacefully in her home in Qualicum Beach, B.C. She was surrounded by the love of her daughters and dear friends, who are all so grateful to have spent time with her before she left.
She is survived by her ‘darling girlies’ Vanessa, Jessie (Ben Yardley), Nancy (Will Jones) and her adored grandchildren; Lily Watters, Lucy, Lila, and Townes Yardley; Cooper and Woodrow Jones, as well as her partner of several happy decades Doug Gordon. She is mourned by her countless friends and extended family members, especially her dear sister Louie.
Stephanie was born to Jean and Gordon Southam on February 12th, 1945. The third of seven children, she grew up in a large and happy home surrounded by invaluable antiques, an enviable art collection, countless cocktail parties and black-tie dinners. The happiest times in her youth were spent at the barn, where she excelled as an accomplished equestrian, winning so many trophies and ribbons that she needed a separate stall to store them all.
A true BC girl, she spent her summers at Qualicum Beach, a tradition that was started before she was born. She and her siblings would join their grandparents in their summer home on Judges Row. When she married Bruce Carlson, and had 4 girls herself, she would lean over the balcony of ‘the house on the hill’ every night at 5 o’clock and yell “girliiies, dinner time” so loudly that they would run up from the beach and sit down to a perfectly prepared dinner, always including fresh vegetables from the garden.
It goes without saying that all who knew and loved Stephanie would, at some point, comment on her beauty and humour. Even at her sickest moments she would have her girls in uncontrollable laughter with her razor-sharp wit and timing.
She was kind and generous, she gave so much back to the community and causes she cared about. A value she learned from her own family, and one she has passed down to her daughters. In 2015, she was given the Governor-General’s Caring Canadian Award for her work with British Columbia Children’s Hospital and Foundation, along with many other accolades both civically and provincially. She leaves behind a legacy of philanthropy and community service. She left an indelible mark on the communities and organizations that she lived in and served.
A celebration of Mum’s life will be held at Christ Church Cathedral, 690 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, at 3:00 pm on Thursday April 4th, 2024. Doug and her girls invite everyone to join them at a reception immediately following the service.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
43 Responses
Reading this beautiful tribute to Stephanie, I hear so much of her lovely, hilarious daughters and grandchildren. While I never had the joy of meeting her, I feel so blessed that my kids and I get to enjoy the wonderful legacy she has left in the incredible family she created. Sending all our love the Jessie and the entire family.
My thoughts are with Nancy and all of Stephanie’s family, friends and community as they collectively grieve the loss of such a loving, wonderful, vibrant soul. I knew Stephanie most as a teenager and young adult. She was always a warm, supportive and encouraging presence. I am so sorry for everyone’s loss.
I will remember her always with fondness and with love. I hope her girls and partner and community are finding comfort being together and honouring her beautiful legacy.
I owe Stephenie a lot; she hired me for her lovely girls. Lots of fun memories. I am so sad for the young ladies she left behind, but feel very honoured to have known a lovely person.
Stephanie was a kind-hearted generous and always humorous woman who brightened many lives with her presence, including mine in many occasions. My heart goes out to all of you.
Great memories of Steph over my 70 years. Our parents were great lifelong friends as well. She was
always fun to be with. She shall be missed, that’s for sure. Condolences to partner Doug and all family and friends .
So long but not good-bye Steph.
Hugs
Bobby Brown
My sincerest condolences.
My thoughts and heart are with you.
Vanessa, Nancy and Jamie, I am so sorry for your loss, And to Doug, Jessie and Louie, my sincere condolences. She loved you all so much.
I saw Stephanie several times a week for many years. Her smile, spirit, nature and company was special. She was sincere and real.
I have really missed her in the recent past, but thoughts of her always brought a smile. Always will.
I miss you dear Stephanie.
Stephanie was my friend years ago when we were much younger and finding our way through growing up. She was a bring spark in my life. I send condolences to her daughters and Doug as losing Stephanie leaves a big hole.
Barb
Much love to you girls, I simply adored your Mum.
Beautiful tribute to your beautiful mom. Daniel, Sofia and I will miss her so much. Sending so much love to all her girls and grandkids.