Local ‘Indigenous Grandmother’ Agnes Pilgrim, known as 'Grandma Aggie,' dies

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. – Agnes Pilgrim, also known as Grandma Aggie, passed away.

For nearly a century, Grandma Aggie led a diverse and rich life. In her early years, she sang in a band, was a bouncer at a nightclub and even drove a logging truck. But in 1970, she decided to take a more spiritual path.

In 1985, she graduated from the then Southern Oregon State College where she began creating and supporting Native American programs.

“She has lived and taught reciprocity, the importance of giving to others in appreciation of what you’ve been given,” said Linda Schott, president of SOU.

In 2004, Grandma Aggie co-founded the International Council of Thirteen Indigenous Grandmothers, an alliance that focuses on issues like the environment and human rights.

Recognized as a “living treasure” by the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz, Grandma Aggie was the oldest living member of the Takelma people and the confederated tribes.

This past August, Granda Aggie was given Southern Oregon University’s highest honor, the President’s Medal. “Love is all there is. Do you agree with me?” she said to the crowd. “Now I’m not talking about some egotistical love, I’m just talking about being able to take in one more breath. The love of L-I-F-E – of life.” At the time, she said she knew her time was getting shorter, but her journey was far from finished.

After learning about Grandma Aggie’s passing, SOU President Linda Schott released the following statement:

“Southern Oregon University has lost a treasured alumna, the recent recipient of our university’s President’s Medal and a true friend,” President Schott said. “Grandma Aggie possessed a larger-than-life personality and wisdom to match. She took it upon herself to preserve and protect Native American culture in our region and has left the rest of us a foundation of success on which to continue her work.

“It was my honor to recognize Grandma Aggie in August by presenting to her the President’s Medal, SOU’s highest tribute for service to the university and community. Her compassion, integrity and courage will continue to affect us and to serve as yardsticks that we can measure ourselves against.”

Grandma Aggie died on November 27, 2019. She was 95 years old.