Veronica "Vicky"

Maguire

Veronica (Vicky) Maguire (née Brandon) passed away peacefully on November 2, 2026, in her home. She will be remembered by family, friends and the many people who came to know her through her work in Ottawa’s restaurants and pubs, and later through Unique Accessories in Carlingwood Mall.

Born in Ayr, Scotland, on May 25, 1945, Veronica moved to the south of England soon after. She grew up in Bishop’s Stortford and Bournemouth with her mother Elizabeth (May), father William (Bill), and older sister Patricia (Pat). Although five years apart in age and separated by an ocean, Veronica and Pat (Don Mackenzie, Bournemouth, England) remained close throughout their lives.

In Bournemouth, Veronica met the love of her life, Brian. They married on November 6, 1964, and shared 57 years of marriage until his passing in 2021. Veronica was welcomed into the Maguire family and shared many happy memories over the years with Graham (Maureen), Eileen (Jeff), David (Gill), Maureen (Malcolm), and later, many nieces and nephews.

After the adventure of living in Singapore twice while Brian was stationed with the Royal Navy, they welcomed their only son, Michael, in 1970. The young family moved to Ottawa in 1972 to seek new opportunities and join Brian’s brother Graham in Canada. Graham, Maureen, and their children Kathleen (Matt) and Patrick remained an important part of “Auntie” Veronica’s life to the end.

In Ottawa, Veronica worked for many years as a barmaid and waitress at local institutions including the City Tavern and Huggies pub. Known as “Vicky” to her friends and customers, she formed many lasting friendships.

Vicky and Brian later became entrepreneurs, opening Unique Accessories in Carlingwood Mall. This second career became her calling. Known to many as the “Hat Lady,” Vicky helped dress Ottawa’s ladies for garden parties, formals and weddings, finding just the right hat, fascinator or finishing touch. Her incredible eye for style made the store a destination for customers seeking something special. She also appeared on CTV in Ottawa and was featured in the local press. The store brought her great joy, as did the many customers who appreciated her advice and returned over the years. Unique Accessories closed in 2021 after 15 years in the mall.

Beyond work, Veronica and Brian enjoyed many friendships, including their “church family.” Peter and Jan, and Jim and Debbie, shared countless happy times with them, playing poker for pennies and wading the beaches in Maine. Their kindness and support through tougher times gave Veronica strength.

In 2021, Veronica and Brian retired to Villagia in the Glebe. Sadly, Brian passed away shortly after their arrival. New friends, particularly Maureen and Lucille, brought happiness to Veronica’s final years. Living close to Michael, his wife Cherill, and grandsons Will and Ben, she enjoyed many family gatherings and watched the boys grow into young men who made her proud.

Veronica - Vicky, Mum, Grandma, Sister, Auntie and Friend - will be deeply missed. She is looking forward to seeing Brian again.

At Veronica’s request, there will be no funeral or service.