It is with sadness the City of Richmond has learned of the passing of former long-time City Councillor and School Trustee Linda McPhail.

First elected to Richmond City Council in 2011, McPhail served three terms before announcing she would not be seeking re-election in 2022. Prior to that, she sat as a School Trustee with the Richmond Board of Education from 2002 to 2011, serving as Chair for seven years.

“Linda was a passionate volunteer who served her community in many ways,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “She was always dedicated to engaging citizens and was committed to making Richmond a strong and vibrant community that people would be proud to call home.”

While on Council, McPhail spent time as Chair of both the Community Safety and Planning committees, and was a member of the City’s Finance, General Purposes, Public Works and Transportation, and Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services committees. She also took on roles as Council Liaison to several advisory committees, organizations and community associations including the Richmond Intercultural Advisory Committee, West Richmond Community Association and Richmond Public Library.

McPhail served on the UBCM Executive as one of two regional representatives, as well as the Metro Vancouver Regional District Regional Culture committee, and as the Mayor's alternate to the TransLink Mayors’ Council.

Outside of her elected roles, McPhail was an active member of the community and a passionate volunteer. She was on the boards of the Seafair Minor Hockey Association and Richmond Arenas Community Association, volunteered for the 2009 BC Seniors Games in Richmond, and was a member of the local Hospital Auxiliary for over 20 years. 

“Linda was known and much loved for her warmth and compassion, and her commitment to respect and represent the people of Richmond in a professional and inclusive manner,” Mayor Brodie added. “She always described herself as a ’proud resident’ who called Richmond home for over six decades, raising three children with her husband Terry. City Council, on behalf of the City of Richmond, extends its deepest sympathy and condolences to Linda’s family.” 

As a sign of recognition and respect, City Hall will lower flags to half-mast on the day of her memorial service, which will be held on Saturday, September 7 at 11:00am at the Richmond Funeral Home, 8420 Cambie Road.