Obituary of Jean Theresa Gabriel (Cannon)
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our mother, Jean Gabriel (Cannon) which occurred peacefully on Saturday, March 13, 2021, at Rocmaura Nursing Home. Born March 5, 1932, in Saint John, NB. She was a daughter of the late Eric and Mary Ellen (Martel) Cannon.
Jean was predeceased 4 months to the day, by her loving husband of 67 years, Joseph Gabriel.
Jean prided herself on being the older sister and caretaker of her family. She was the last Cannon Girl, as she was predeceased by her sisters: Baby Mary Ellen, Catherine Watson, Mary Butler, Doris Williston, Rita Cosman and one brother, Ernest Cannon. She was predeceased by many close brothers and sisters-in-laws.
Jean was survived by her son, Neil Gabriel of Fredericton; daughter, Kathy Gabriel of Sussex; two grandchildren, Jennifer Hachey (Cunningham) of Upperton and Joey Cunningham of Saint John. She was “Sittie” to 5 precious great-grandchildren, Alex, Ian, Emily, Noah, and Michael. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews who considered her much more than their “Aunt”. She was Mama Jean to Anne Michaud and is survived by many “friends” that she considered “family”!
Jean was a very dedicated volunteer at Rocmaura Nursing Home for over 25 years. She was very active in The Holy Trinity CWL and St. Joseph’s Hospital Auxiliary. She canvassed faithfully for The Heart and Stroke Foundation. She worked at Stephen’s Drug Store and Selick’s Drug Store.
Jean was happiest surrounded by her family and friends. Once she met you, you quickly became “family”! She will be missed by many!
Jean was famous for her fudge, fruit cake, boiled frosting, and apple pie. There was no occasion that mom didn’t make fudge to bring with her!
She gifted her crocheted butterflies to family and friends across Canada and the US.
There will be a special memory board for people to bring a butterfly from home to leave for her, as we help her fly “home” on the wings of her kindness!
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, March 16, 2021, from 1:00-3:00 pm, with a Funeral Liturgy to immediately follow at 3:00 pm. Interment will take place at a later date. For those who wish, remembrances in Jean’s memory can be made to the Cathedral Restoration Project, Rocmaura Nursing Home, or the Alzheimer Society of NB. Online condolences may be placed at www.BrenansFH.com
