Jessie Winnifred Shearer

April 6th, 1932 - May 22nd, 2020

 

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jessie Winnifred Shearer (nee Pyott), this May 22nd.

 

Jessie was born on April 6th, 1932 in the Castleavery District. The second child of Robert (Bob) and Minnie Pyott, she attended school at Castleavery, Dropmore and Tummel. Jessie attended Little’s Business College in Dauphin, then worked for a lawyer and insurance broker in Roblin. Jessie married Murray Shearer on June 20th, 1959 at the Knox United Church in Roblin. They farmed in the Dropmore District until May of 1968 when they moved to Swan River with their three young children. During Jessie’s life she belonged to various groups including Castleavery Ladies Club, Big Woody Women's Institute, St. Andrews United Church Women, and danced with the Swan Valley Hoedowners Square and Round Dance Club. Her time was spent not only farming but also included working at Bilowus Stationary, doing Home Care, teaching Sunday school, and helping in the kitchen at Swan Valley Hospital.

 

Jessie is survived by her husband Murray; daughter Kathryn Victoria BC; son Grant (Deborah) Grande Prairie AB; son David (Sandra) Winnipeg MB; and grandchildren Paul, Richmond BC and Loïc, Winnipeg MB, plus many nieces and nephews (some who remember her as Auntie Babe).

She is predeceased by her sister Marjorie and brothers Robert (Bobby) and James(Jimmy).

 

Jessie was full of life and laughter, she made things fun. Her smile and hug always at the ready. Board games, card games, dancing and singing - especially in the kitchen - are all wonderful memories. She was a lady who loved learning. The Encyclopedia Britannica was her household library. Gardening was a special retreat. Happy hours were spent perusing seed catalogues and putting ideas in motion in her abundant flower and vegetable gardens. With the organizations Mum gave her time to or just working on the farm, she was enthusiastic and generous no matter what the task. She always made time for friends, coffee and biscuits or stay for supper - people were important to her.Mum was more than a beautiful woman with a signature laugh, she was the heart of our family. Her love stitches us together, her family quilt that has been born and raised, patched and mended but still beautiful and holding strong.In keeping with Jessie’s wishes a private family burial ceremony was held on May 26th at the Birchwood Cemetery in Swan River. Due to current distancing regulations, a Celebration of Life for Jessie will be announced at a later date. If friends so desire, memorial donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.