Katharine M E Liston
1930-2026
Former Donor

Several High School representatives attended the recent Memorial Service for Katharine after she passed away in her 96th year. She was the widow of former pupil, Ian, who sadly died over 20 years ago.

Both were generous supporters of the High School and Katharine continued to make regular donations in recent years. A talented musician herself, an oboist with the Glasgow Orchestral Society, she enjoyed attending High School concerts and drama productions well into her nineties as well as running her own musical events at Ross Priory.

When she published her autobiography just a few years ago, her many friends in the High School community were amazed to discover she had in fact been a foundling, a baby abandoned outside Rottenrow Maternity Hospital after her birth on 22 November, 1930 and adopted by a foster family as Katharine Rudd.

Katharine came a very long way from that humble beginning, achieving strongly at university, in her work and musical life – but more than anything she dedicated herself to supporting a wide range of charities, which was duly recognised when she was installed as a Dame of the Order of St John.

A lady with natural authority, full of wit and wisdom, Katharine lived according to the Biblical dictum “it is better to give than receive.”

She was always proud to publicise her association with the High School. We in turn were proud to regard her as a great supporter and very special friend.

Tribute written by Mr Colin Mair (Former Rector, 2004-2015).