Barbara Bobby Jean Jean McLeod Jennings

If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Barbara Jean Jennings. She was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to her because she was such a sociable and amiable person, someone who was always making certain that those around her had whatever they needed. Bobby Jean was a talkative person who was tactful at all times but typically said what she meant.

       She was the daughter of Kenzie and Phyllis McLeod. Bobby Jean was raised in Arrow Lakes area, her fondest memories were of her childhood in Edgewood and the times that she spent with her Grandfather. During her childhood she learned to be reliable and respectful. Bobby Jean was an obedient child who wanted to win the favor of others. She found it easy to show sympathy and to perform kind acts for others. These admirable qualities would become a part of Bobby Jean's personality throughout her life.

       Bobby Jean was a peace-maker with an ability to resolve all sorts of family conflicts. In fact, Bobby Jean worked conscientiously to keep those typical family spats at bay. Bobby Jean was raised with one sibling, a younger sister, Inez. Bobby Jean and Inez had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another.

      As someone who reveled in the sheer joy of her experiences, Bobby Jean was always enthusiastic about new adventures. Although she had an exacting nature, Bobby Jean was always tactful. One thing Bobby Jean will certainly be remembered for is that, when she got up in the mornings, she was ready and raring to go. As a young girl, Bobby Jean had a number of interests and was an active child.

      For Bobby Jean, the school routines were never a problem although she generally preferred variety to structure. She seemed to be able to start a project and work right through to its completion. And she was able to do it quickly and efficiently. Bobby Jean was also adept at details. Bobby Jean was very observant and was generally quick at picking up new things. She enjoyed school and was very bright, when she was young she wanted to be a doctor but had to go to work at a young age to help support her family, this left little time for the school work that she enjoyed.

      Bobby Jean was a faithful and loving person. Some would even call her sentimental and a romantic at heart. Her kindness and consideration radiated an aura of warmth to those around her. Bobby Jean cared for what others thought and carried that into her marriage. Compassionate and devoted, Bobby Jean worked hard to make "Her Johnny" happy.

      Harmony was important to Bobby Jean and she made every effort to maintain it with her family. Bobby Jean was blessed with four children, three sons; David, Michael, and Kenzie and one daughter Inez Kim. She was also blessed with six grandchildren; Dionne, Darcie, Kaiden, Kenzie, Clare Marie, and Adrian. Bobby Jean was always conscious of the feelings others had. She was reasonable and understanding. As a result, Bobby Jean was quick to solve disputes and did so without much fuss. Her secret of success in this area was simple: Bobby Jean would listen before she would act.

      Taking her work seriously came naturally to Bobby Jean she was a good team player; someone who was born to cooperate with others. She was what some would call a “people person” and it was demonstrated in her good communication skills. Bobby Jean was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits were situations that Bobby Jean handled well. She could understand the details without getting lost in the broad “big picture.” Her primary occupation was cashier. She was employed by the Blue Bird Cab Company and at Mr Pepper's grocery store. She brought harmony and laughter to her work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for her colleagues.

      A methodical woman, Bobby Jean enjoyed spending time working on her various hobbies. She had no problem following all of the steps and instructions on a given project and was proud of the fact that she could have something to show for her efforts. Her favorite pursuits were reading, gardening, and needlework.

     Because she was outgoing and worked well with others, Bobby Jean was an active member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. She wouldn’t shy away from taking the lead on committees or events, Bobby held every office within the Eagles, many more than once! During her term as President the Ladies Auxilary raised and donated more money to local charities than had been donated in the past. Bobby's biggest honour was being chosen Provincial Mother, she travelled all over British Columbia visiting as many clubs as she could, always carrying out her duties with dignity and grace. Her quick wit and creative mind were put to the test on many occasions during her years as an Eagle member; creating campaign slogans for those Eagle members nominated to a Provincial office, designing drill routines for the Drill Team, and orchestrating most of the practical jokes that were instigated during the annual FOE convention. It was through her association with the Fraternal Order of Eagles that she developed many rich and rewarding friendships over the years.

      Since it was easy for Bobby Jean to meet and get to know new people, she quickly made friends. Once she met those new friends, she loved sharing stories and talking about the good old days. In retirement, she found new pleasure in "vanning" with John, they would load up the camper van and take off on new adventures or head out to see the grandchildren. Even in retirement, Bobby Jean stayed in touch with her family and friends; Christmas would find her delivering puddings to neighbours and every so often a family member would receive a phone call to let them know that she cared and was interested in their well being.

       Bobby Jean is survived by her children; David, Michael (Bonnie), Inez Kim (Roy), Kenzie (Sandi) and her grandchildren; Dionne, Darcie, Kaiden, Kenzie, Clare Marie, and Adrian. Services were held at First Memorial Funeral Chapel. Bobby was laid to rest with her beloved John in First Memorial Cemetery.

      Bobby Jean was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. And whenever she said something, she meant it. Bobby Jean was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. She was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. She was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember her for most is the fact that she was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life she touched will miss Barbara Jean Jennings.

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December 22, 1930 - October 12, 2012

Jennings, Barbara Jean (Bobby Jean) passed away peacefully on October 12, 2012 at the age of 81. Bobby Jean was born on December 22, 1930 in Rossland, BC; she was predeceased by her husband John in 2004 and her sister Inez Baker in 2012. She will be lovingly remembered by her children, David, Michael (Bonnie), Inez Kim (Roy), Kenzie (Sandi), and grandchildren, Dionne, Darcie, Kaiden, Kenzie, Clare Marie and Adrian. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff, Mom's extended family, at the Gorge Hospital for their outstanding care.

Please join us for a celebration of her life on Saturday October 27, 2012 at 2:00pm at First Memorial Funeral Services 4725 Falaise Dr. For those who wish to leave messages of condolence please visit www.mem.com and search for; Jennings, Barbara Jean.