Tribute

We are saddened to announce the passing of our wonderful Jeanne: a wife, mother, nana, sister, aunt and friend. She passed away peacefully on January 5th, surrounded by her loving family.

Jeanne was the heart of her family. As a wife, she was a best friend, sharing a life built on love, laughter, and unwavering support. As a mother, she was nurturing, strong, and endlessly proud of her children. Her greatest joy came in her role as Nana. As her grandchildren’s biggest fan, she cheered them on at hockey games, swim meets, and as they began their careers. She was known for her infectious cackle of laughter, particularly when gathered with her siblings.  Family meant everything to Jeanne. Dinners, holiday gatherings, and especially Christmas were sacred to her; moments filled with food, faith, laughter, and togetherness. She had a way of making everyone feel welcome and cared for, whether around the kitchen table, camping, baking, or sharing a favourite card game where she was playfully accused of cheating “just like Granny”. Her cooking was famous, particularly her talent for overcooking meat which somehow only added to the charm of her meals and is lovingly remembered by all who gathered at her table.

Her Christian faith and church family were central to her life. A devoted and deeply respected member of Kimberley Fellowship Baptist Church, she served faithfully in many leadership roles, including Deacon, Chairperson of the Local Missions Committee, and Chairperson of the Finance Committee, offering thoughtful guidance on ministry and financial decisions. She was instrumental in sustaining church programs, led Bible studies, and was always ready to welcome newcomers with warmth and kindness. Passionate about helping others, she played a key role in supporting missionary work and community outreach, including the preparation of 65 food hampers this past Christmas.  Knowledgeable about the church’s history and a true friend to all, she was well loved for her generosity, compassion, and commitment to serving others.

Jeanne is survived by her husband of over 5 decades, Barry, her four boys, Mark (Elaine), Adrian (Danielle), Christopher (Angela), and Brian (Christine), her siblings Rosanne, Donna (Erik), and Dan (Terry) and grandchildren Delaney, Cole, Charlotte, Sara, Rylee, Kye, and Kaylie. She was predeceased by her parents, Olive and Roland Dufresne.

A celebration of Jeanne’s life will be held on Saturday, January 24th at 11:30 AM at the Kimberley Fellowship Baptist Church (395 Marsden Street). In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to KFBC- Local Missions, in her memory.

She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered by all who were lucky enough to sit at her table, laugh in her kitchen, or be wrapped in her love.