Memories of Gladys McLatchy 1909-2007
by Russell Tilt
(First published in the RHN Bulletin, March 2007 edition)
I was shocked, but not surprised to hear of the passing of the Naturalists’ good friend and strong supporter, Gladys McLatchy.
Gladys joined the Richmond Hill Naturalists in 1974 and continued to be a member for 28 years. I recall my first contact with her was when she and her parents operated a store called “Fabric Fair” at 8 Yonge Street South, where they carried a complete line of materials for dressmaking. My wife Doris and daughter Susan visited her store often in the early 1950’s when we became close friends. Her father was a founder and promoter of the Curtain Club.
Gladys lived at the corner of Yonge Street and Major MacKenzie Drive until about 2 ye ars ago, but left after a long continuous battle with the Town and the Department of Highways who wanted to take over her property when the two roads were being widened.
Gladys was also a very active member of the Horticultural Society since the early 1940s. She held every office and sat on every committee in the Society. She was also a member of numerous organizations of the Town where she held responsible positions.
As a member of the Naturalists and the Horticultural Society she played an important role in persuading the Town Council to establish the Mill Pond Park, the Lois Hancey Park and the Pioneer Park. I was honoured to plant the first barrel of flowers in front of Gladys’ home as part of the establishment of the Town parks.
Gladys also served as an advisor to the Naturalists in the 1970s and 1980s, but never received any recognition for this. For 15 years she was a generous supporter of the Richmond Hill Naturalists’ annual Birdathon.
Her main interest was horticulture. She loved working in her garden, which was always one of the best and most interesting in Richmond Hill. She was also interested in wild plants and always had some in her garden. Gladys was always strong and firm in her opinions and never hesitated to make them known. She was an accomplished leader.
Gladys, we are proud to have known you and are grateful for all that you have done.