Alice Massey

Who was Alice Massey?

Alice Parkin Massey was a Canadian philanthropist and the wife of Vincent Massey, who became Governor General of Canada shortly after Alice Massey's death.

Born in Fredericton, New Brunswick, she was the daughter of George and Annie Parkin. She was educated in Canada, England and Switzerland. In 1914, she was appointed head of the women's students hostel at the University of Toronto. She married Vincent Massey the following year.

During Vincent Massey's term as High Commissioner for Canada in the United Kingdom, Alice became involved in organizations to assist Canadian service personnel in England during World War II, including a medical hospice for injured Canadian servicemen, the Canadian Officers' Club and the Beaver Club. Alice Massey also served as a member of the St. John Ambulance Briagde throughout World War II, and would maintain her connection with St. John Ambulance until her death.

Alice and Vincent Massey had two children, Lionel and Hart. Due to Alice's death, Lionel Massey's wife Lilias served as Chatelaine of Rideau Hall.