Nov 15, 1935 - Jan 3, 2018
On Wednesday, January 3rd, supported by her loving family and caregivers, 82-year-old Jean Mary Small passed away peacefully at the Elk Valley Hospital.
Jean was born November 15, 1935 in St. Helens, Lancashire, England. Before her 20th birthday Jean had met and married her soulmate, Roy Small, and settled into the role of wife and motherhood with ease. Over an 11-year period, Jean and Roy welcomed 5 children into their family, raising them in a loving home filled with unconditional love and lots of laughter.
When Kaiser Resources offered employment and opportunity, the Small family, along with many others, made the life changing decision to leave England and relocate to Canada. In July of 1974 they arrived in Sparwood, and by November of that year had settled in Fernie where they quickly carved out their new life - never regretting their choice to come to Canada.
Jean loved to travel! Together the couple shared adventures all over the world including Mexico (10 times!), Aruba, the Caribbean and the Pacific. She also loved to walk and could go for hours .... often with Roy doing his best to keep up! Jean was a gentle, kind-hearted woman who had a special way with children and animals; they seemed to be able to sense her warm, loving spirit. She was a natural born caregiver with a reassuring smile who made those around her feel comfortable and safe. "Nanny" always had time for her precious grandchildren and great grandchildren .... they brought absolute joy into her life!
Rest in Peace Jean. You will be forever missed!
Jean is survived by her husband of 62 years, Roy Small and their children: Janet (Tony) Zielinski, Philip (Maria) Small, Jackie Small (Keith Lobin), David Small (Michelle Perez), and Pauline (Duane) Zuffa, 12 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, and her sister Louisa (Michael) Leeman.
She was predeceased by her parents John and Ruth Talbot, and her brother John.
Funeral Mass was celebrated at the Holy Family Catholic Church on Saturday, January 6th with Father David John, Celebrant. Burial followed at St. Margaret's Cemetery.
Memorial tributes may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, www.cancer.ca.
Memories & condolences shared at www.cherishedmemoriesfs.com.
Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.
Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.