Jean Elizabeth Roy

ROY (Rafuse), Jean Elizabeth passed away peacefully on March 31 at Parkland on the Gardens, Halifax, her home for the past two years. Born March 12, 1923 in Bridgewater, NS, Jean was a daughter of the late Norman J and Bernice (Awalt) Rafuse, a prominent business family.

Jean attended the School for Girls at Mount Allison University, Sackville NB. She continued her education at Mt. A. Following a period of secretarial work in Montreal she married Douglas L Roy M.D. in 1946. They moved back to Halifax when Doug completed his medical studies at McGill University, and raised four children.

Jean was active in the community. She was president of the Infant’s Foundation, volunteered at the IWK, where she helped start the ‘Gift Horse’ gift shop and worked at the annual Kermess. She was active at Saint Andrew’s United Church where she served as secretary of the library, did pastoral care visitation to isolated church members, and volunteered at the annual Christmas Tea and Sale. Jean participated with a group of women in one of the longest standing Investment clubs in Canada, “Les Girls”.

One of Jean’s great passions was the Art world. She volunteered at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia and derived great joy from travelling on their tours to many parts of the world. On her return she shared the excitement of the cultures she visited. Jean also was an active member of The Antiquarian Club of Halifax. She annually researched and presented on a great variety of topics. She also participated in the Dalhousie Reading and Book Club. Jean loved classical music especially the Opera. She enjoyed nature, swimming in the ocean, sailing with family and friends, and identifying wild flowers and birds. Jean was a good friend to many and enjoyed learning from their experiences.

She is survived by her sons Peter (Jean), Red Deer, AB, Paul (Stella), Bedford, John (Tracey), Halifax, and daughter Barbara (Scott Aikman), Wolfville; brother Edward (Ned) Rafuse, Renfrew, ON; grandchildren, Adam (Sarah Atkinson), Graham (Janet), Michael, Emily, Alexander Roy and Andrew (Kelly), Peter, Brian (Carolynn Fielder), and Alan Aikman; six great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Douglas L Roy, and brother, Robert N Rafuse.

A memorial service will be held 2 pm, Tuesday, April 7 at St. Andrew’s United Church, Robie Street, Halifax with a reception to follow in the church hall. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the IWK Health Centre, Nova Scotia Art Gallery or the charity of your choice.