Hilary Weston obituary remembers Hilary Weston, who passed away at 83, living a life full of elegance, kindness, and influence across both Ireland and Canada. Born Hilary Frayne in Dublin in 1942, she started as a model before marrying into the Weston family, one of the most powerful business dynasties in Canada and the UK. This obituary reflects on her inspiring journey from the fashion world to becoming a leading philanthropist who impacted thousands.
Hilary Weston’s biography and early life in Dublin
Hilary grew up in Dublin, Ireland, in a close-knit family. After her father passed away in 1960, she turned to modelling to help support her mother and younger siblings. Her elegance soon caught the eye of many, including Galen Weston, who spotted her on a Dublin billboard in 1963.
The couple married three years later in a themed celebration at the Weston family estate in Marlow, on the Thames. By then, Galen was building his retail empire in Ireland with the launch of Penneys (later known as Primark) and the luxury store Brown Thomas, where Hilary played an active role.
A Philanthropic Force in Canada
In 1971, the Westons moved to Canada, where Galen took over the Loblaws supermarket chain and eventually the George Weston Ltd empire. Hilary became a driving force behind the Weston Family Foundation and later launched the Hilary and Galen Weston Foundation, which contributed over Can $150 million to healthcare, refugee programs, cultural heritage, and environmental projects.
Her work and dedication eventually led to her appointment as the 26th Lieutenant Governor of Ontario in 1997, only the second woman to hold the position. This Hilary Weston obituary highlights how she used her platform to celebrate volunteers, promote opportunities for young people, and advance women’s leadership.

Life at Fort Belvedere and Royal Ties
Back in England, the Westons owned Fort Belvedere in Windsor Great Park, the historic residence where Edward VIII signed his abdication in 1936. The couple restored the estate with landscaped gardens, a conservatory, and polo facilities.
Over the years, they became close friends of the British royal family, with Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip attending Hilary’s 60th birthday celebration. These royal ties made the Hilary Weston obituary not just a Canadian story but also a chapter in modern royal history.
Awards, honors, and lasting influence
Hilary Weston’s decades of charity work earned her numerous honors, including the Order of Canada in 2003 and the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) in 2015. She was known for her elegance, warmth, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
She is survived by her daughter, Alannah Weston, former chair of Selfridges, and her son Galen Weston Jr., who now leads the Canadian businesses. More than just a record of her achievements, this Hilary Weston obituary is a celebration of her belief in service, style, and making a difference.