Jessie Nell Blair

Peacefully, but unexpectedly, after 91 years of a life well-lived and well-loved, Jessie Nell Blair passed on September 7, 2019, sitting on the sofa, in her house and neighbourhood she had enjoyed for 57 years.

Jessie was predeceased by loving husband John, parents Harry and Mary, and brother Stan. She leaves to cherish her memory, beloved daughter Judith Blair, granddaughter Jaime Rosin, and son-in-law Daryl Rosin. Jessie will be sadly missed by her brother/neighbour Henry and sister-in-law Karen, many nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, and many friends and neighbours, whose lives were touched by her kindness, loyalty, goodness and great attitude.

Jessie was born in Winnipeg and attended Mulvey and Gordon Bell. She excelled as a student, athlete, and the lead in her high school musicals. Jessie nourished her passion for music in her adult life by singing in her church choir and Winnipeg Philharmonic choir.

After graduating, she joined the accounts department at The Bay, where she met John. They married May 12, 1951 and had many happy years together, in Winnipeg and Saskatoon. Jessie was a happy stay-at-home mom devoted to Judy. She and other moms of the neighbourhood became life-long friends, many remaining in the special neighbourhood.

In the late 60’s Jessie rejoined the workforce. She spent many enjoyable years in the accounting department of the MLCC, where her intelligence, professionalism, and attention to detail shone.

After the birth of Jaime, she became “Grammy,” and with John (Grandad), devotedly cared for Jaime. They proudly attended all of Jaime’s volleyball and softball games, and her musicals and plays, including the Winnipeg Fringe Festival this summer.

Jessie and John enjoyed travelling to Europe, Britain, Mexico, Canada, the US and the Caribbean. They loved the company of family and friends, house parties and bridge. Jessie was a member of many bridge clubs, and continued to play weekly with her friends and family (whom she patiently taught). She continued to be an avid reader, cross-word puzzler, Jeopardy fan and life-long learner.

Jessie was a woman of quiet, simple and abiding faith. She attended Fort Garry United Church with her dear neighbourhood “angels.” Jessie knew that God was always with her, and at the end, she was at absolute peace and content. She was just “Goin’ Home.”

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 17 at 1:30 p.m. at Fort Garry United Church, 800 Point Road at Lyon. Interment will follow at Thomson “In the Park” Cemetery.

Those who wish, may donate in Jessie’s name to Fort Garry United Church, Siloam Mission or The Salvation Army.