Barbara Alice “Allie” Turpin passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025, at the age of 89, at the Chinook Regional Hospital.

Born in Pincher Creek, Alberta, on August 27, 1936, Allie was the middle child of Ralph and Elsie (Stewart) Gold and sister to Iris and Stewart.

When the war broke out, and her father enlisted, the family moved from their home on Drywood Creek to New Westminster, BC, where they could be closer to their extended Gold and Booth family members. It was there that Allie grew up, shaping the compassionate and lively spirit that would define her life. She attended Richard McBride and Duke of Connaught schools, was active in St. Mary’s Anglican Church—first attending and later teaching Sunday School—and volunteered as a Candy Striper at the Royal Columbian Hospital. She immersed herself in many school groups and, in 1947, was honoured to serve as a Maid of Honour in the New Westminster May Day Suite.

While attending UBC, Allie worked for four years as a nurse’s aide at RCH. It was also at UBC that she met William “Bill” Turpin, whom she married in 1958. After graduating, Allie began her career as an elementary school teacher, discovering what would become a lifelong passion: teaching. She delighted in inspiring young minds, sharing her curiosity, and fostering confidence in her students. Her teaching roles included Aldergrove Elementary, night school programs, and the inaugural staff of Parkside Elementary.

Allie’s next great passion was her growing family. She and Bill raised their three eldest children together; after their marriage ended, she raised her two youngest children on her own. With quiet strength, determination, and boundless love, she devoted herself to ensuring her children were loved, cared for, supported, and cherished.

Allie was blessed with nine grandchildren, whom she loved and adored wholeheartedly. She treasured their visits, their stories, and the deep connections she shared with each of them.

In 1997, Allie returned to her birthplace of Pincher Creek, where she found renewed joy in her faith. She became an active member of St. John’s Anglican Church and its choir, proud to introduce visiting family members to her church community. Even after retirement, she continued teaching in Pincher Creek Community Programs, at the Minimum Security Prison, and on the Brocket Reserve.

Those who knew Allie will remember her as one of the most accepting and encouraging people one could ever meet. She championed underdogs, welcomed “strays” into her home, and made everyone feel heard, safe, and loved. Her lifelong curiosity kept her asking questions, even when the answers prompted her to rethink long-held views. She giggled easily, debated enthusiastically, and carried a spark of mischief that made her presence a joy. And if she caught you acting with that same mischief, you would be sure to be on the receiving end of a pointed finger, a playful squint, and a cheeky: “You scallywag!”

Allie is survived by her five children: Penny; Diane (Garth); Barbara (Ray); Bill (Mandy); and Helen (Jody); her nine beloved grandchildren: Duncan, Mackenzie, Dayle, Willow, Riley, Titus, Ocean, Lane, and Solstice; her siblings, Iris and Stewart; and many extended family members and friends who will forever hold her memory close.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, warmth, curiosity, faith, and quiet strength—qualities that touched countless lives and will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her.