The Richmond community has lost a respected female leader after she passed away last week.
Described as a proud librarian and a "respected" woman, Sophie McDougall passed away at the age of 94.
McDougall was a founding member of the Richmond Public Library and the Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW), which was previously known as the Richmond University Women's Club.
In 1967, McDougall and a group of "like-minded graduate women" formed the University Women's Club of Richmond, and nothing stopped her from missing a meeting until she was challenged by health issues.
"She was listened to and respected," said Gale Rocky, president of CFUW Richmond, in a media statement.
"She served a term as club president and was opinionated and active on many issues. Always a stickler for Robert's Rules and the correct way of conducting meetings; she would often rise on a 'Point of Order'."
The Richmond High alumna also had a passion for libraries after having completed her Bachelor of Library Science degree from University of Washington.
A common phrase she said to up-and-coming librarians was that "You have to be very curious and you can’t rest until you find the answer!”
Her delight in her profession and libraries saw an opportunity for a "better library system" in Richmond.
She led a group to establish the Friends of the Library in 1970 to support the development of an independent public library in Richmond and not just a branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library system.
"They were ultimately successful and the Friends of the Library continues to support Richmond Public Library to this day," reads the statement.
McDougall have been awarded a special certificate for her dedication and service for 50 years with the CFUW in 2017 and was named "CFUW Notable Woman" during the club's 100th anniversary in 2019.
