Bridget Hirst

Bridget Hirst, aged 95, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2025, in San Rafael, California.

Born on September 14, 1930, in South Mimms, England, to Charles and Margaret Carlton, Bridget’s early years were shaped by her education at various English boarding schools beginning at the age of seven. She quickly distinguished herself in English, poetry, and drama — subjects that would remain close to her heart throughout her life. Her passion for the arts led her to study at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. Though she ultimately decided against an acting career, her creative spirit found new expression when she enrolled at the Paris Academy to study pattern cutting and dress design. There, she also mastered the art of walking in high heels and gracefully entering and exiting a sports car — skills she later described with characteristic humor as “useless but great fun.”

Bridget began her professional career as a pattern cutter at Horrockses before moving on to work as a designer at C&A in Manchester. One of her favorite tasks involved reviewing daily newspapers for photographs of Princess Margaret and recreating the royal’s outfits for ready-to-wear collections.

In 1956, Bridget married Michael Hirst and later settled in Cuckfield, Sussex, where she owned and managed a nursery school for 10 years. After their divorce in 1976, she moved to Hove, Sussex. She loved living by the sea, but in 2014, as her health began to decline, Bridget relocated to California to be closer to her family. She first moved into Drakes Terrace in San Rafael and spent the last five years of her life at Three Home Village, also in San Rafael.

Bridget was a devoted mother and grandmother. She is survived by her son David and his wife Jill from Sai Kung, Hong Kong; her daughter Caroline Bland and son-in-law Christopher from Tiburon, California; her much-loved granddaughter Helena Bland from London; and her sister Patricia Plimmer from New Zealand.

A woman of many talents and interests, Bridget was an avid reader with a deep appreciation for theater. She made many of her own clothes until her eyesight began to fail. She was also known for her extremely complex knitting patterns, creating pieces for friends and family, as well as her enjoyment of tapestry work. A passionate traveler with an adventurous spirit, she often spoke of her only regret: never making it to the Amazon or into space.

Despite facing health challenges later in life, Bridget remained upbeat and full of humor. She was a steadfast source of support for others during difficult times and cherished the many friendships she cultivated throughout her life. Her sense of humor, warmth, and curiosity left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Bridget was a wonderful mother and granny, a loyal friend to many, and someone who brought light into many lives. She will be missed every day by those fortunate enough to have known her.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Three Home Village and By the Bay Hospice for their compassionate care during Bridget’s final months. A prayer service will be held at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Belvedere, and a Celebration of Life will be held in England later this year.