Lady June Hillary, widow of the legendary mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary, has passed away at the age of 92. Her death on Saturday was confirmed by her daughter, Robyn Mulgrew. Lady Hillary was renowned for her extensive contributions to Nepal and the Nepalese community in New Zealand. This article delves into her impactful life, highlighting her roles and lasting legacy.
Who Was Lady June Hillary?
Lady June Hillary was an influential figure known for her dedicated work in promoting cultural understanding and supporting the Nepalese community. Her marriage to Sir Edmund Hillary, following the tragic deaths of his first wife and daughter, marked the beginning of her significant involvement in Nepalese causes. Her previous marriage to Peter Mulgrew, a close friend of Sir Edmund, further connected her to the Hillary legacy.
What Were Lady Hillary’s Contributions to the Nepalese Community?
Patron of New Zealand Nepal Society
Lady June Hillary served as the patron of the New Zealand Nepal Society. She played a crucial role in promoting cultural exchange and understanding between New Zealand and Nepal. Her efforts in this position strengthened the bonds between the two nations, ensuring that Nepal’s rich heritage and traditions were celebrated and appreciated in New Zealand.
Honorary Consul-General of Nepal to New Zealand
In her capacity as the Honorary Consul-General of Nepal to New Zealand, Lady Hillary dedicated herself to the welfare of the Nepalese community. Her role was instrumental in fostering strong diplomatic and cultural relations. Dinesh Khadka, the Honorary Consul of Nepal for Auckland, expressed his condolences on social media, praising Lady Hillary as an exceptional individual whose contributions to Nepal were immeasurable. He noted that her dedication to the welfare of the Nepalese community left a lasting impact.
How Did Lady Hillary Advocate for Cultural Understanding?
A Passionate Advocate
Lady Hillary was a passionate advocate for the Nepalese community, tirelessly promoting cultural understanding and supporting the community in various ways. Her compassion, dedication, and service legacy continue to inspire many. Her work with the New Zealand Nepal Society was highly valued, and her efforts were crucial in fostering strong ties between the two countries.
Advocacy and Support
Her unwavering commitment to the Nepalese people and her dedication to their welfare were widely recognized. Lady Hillary’s advocacy work ensured that the Nepalese community in New Zealand received the support they needed. Her passing is a significant loss to both the New Zealand and Nepalese communities.
What Was Lady Hillary’s Role in the Himalayan Trust?
Early Involvement and Leadership
Lady Hillary was deeply involved with the Himalayan Trust from its inception. Her friendship with Sir Edmund and his first wife, Louise, played a key role in her involvement. She supported Sir Edmund’s work with the trust, especially in the later years of his life. After Sir Edmund’s death in 2008, Lady Hillary acted as chairperson for a period, guiding the trust through significant projects aimed at improving the lives of people in the Himalayas.
Resignation and Contributions
In 2011, Lady Hillary stepped down from the Himalayan Trust following clashes with Sir Edmund’s surviving children, Sarah and Peter. Despite this, the trust expressed great sadness at her passing and acknowledged her significant contributions over the years. They remembered her as a wonderfully funny, caring individual with a tremendous sense of style and a deep fondness for the Himalayas and the people of Nepal.
How Did the Community React to Lady Hillary’s Passing?
Tributes and Condolences
The Nepal New Zealand Friendship Society of Canterbury expressed its deepest sorrow at the loss of Lady Hillary. They acknowledged her as a steadfast support system for her late husband and extended their condolences to her family, remembering her as an inspiring figure. Tenzing Norgay’s grandson, Tashi Tenzing, also shared his family’s condolences, expressing his sorrow and hoping for her soul to rest in eternal peace. The Tenzing family recognized Lady Hillary as a great lady whose departure is a significant loss.
Community Impact
Lady Hillary’s legacy will continue to inspire and unite people. Her contributions to the Nepalese community and her support of Sir Edmund’s work are deeply appreciated. Her efforts ensured that the Nepalese community in New Zealand thrived, and her work in promoting cultural understanding between the two countries was invaluable.
What Is Lady June Hillary’s Lasting Legacy?
Compassion and Dedication
Lady June Hillary’s legacy is one of compassion, dedication, and cultural unity. Her tireless efforts in supporting the Nepalese community and promoting cultural understanding have left an indelible mark. Her advocacy and support for the Himalayan Trust and her role in the New Zealand Nepal Society highlighted her commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Inspirational Figure
Lady Hillary’s life and work will continue to inspire many. Her contributions to the Nepalese community, her dedication to promoting cultural understanding, and her support of Sir Edmund’s legacy are deeply appreciated and will be remembered for years to come. She will be remembered as a compassionate and dedicated advocate for cultural understanding, leaving behind a legacy that unites and inspires.