Vivian Elaine Stephen

STEPHEN-PURCELL, Vivian Elaine - Born in Saint John, N.B., October 28th, 1956 - Vivian succumbed to cancer after a heroic battle on February 14, 2010 - 28 year's to the day since her husband's first date with his "Lebanese Princess". Warm, loving, vibrant and frank, her winning smile, infectious laugh and zest for life, were inspiring. Everywhere she went she left a lasting impression. Whether fighting against racism, for Multiculturalism, or trying to influence truth in Government, we knew where Vivian stood. And, she stood for a great deal. Vivian was uncompromising in her moral beliefs and values which she practiced with quiet dignity. Her boundless energy and sense of commitment to her "cause" drew others to join in. Many admired and supported her in her efforts. She attended Edgehill School for Girls in Windsor where she made lifelong friends. As a young woman Vivian journeyed to Los Angeles to pursue her dream to be a world-class interior designer. Returning home to Saint John she opened her design business confidently clutching an American Society of Interior Design Award, an awesome achievement. She volunteered to help Polish sailors who jumped ship in Saint John Harbour in a bid for freedom. This led to a strong desire to help others. Vivian established the first Immigrant Settlement Program for Saint John. She loved teaching English as a Second Language. Vivian served as President of the Multicultural Association of Saint John. Under her guidance, it was one of the most active in the country. Serving as a Board Member both provincially and federally, of the New Brunswick Multicultural Council, she inspired its youth members to embrace their dreams. Her many efforts led to her being named Newsmaker of the Year by Saint John's media. When life took her to Halifax, she continued to embrace her Lebanese culture, becoming an active board member of the Canadian Lebanon Society. She also was elected President of the Multicultural Association of Nova Scotia, where she served with distinction. Her failing health forced her to become less active in recent years, but her courageous battle was an inspiration to all those around her. She lived as a fighter and she never let up, even to the very end. She was loved by many and will be truly missed. She is survived by her family, who loved her dearly, especially husband Bob, who adored her as a heroine. Vivian was a committed Christian and a deeply spiritual person, who embraced all faiths. God bless Vivian. Visitation will be held Friday, February 19 from 6-8 p.m. and Saturday, February 20th from 10 a.m.-12 p.m., in J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Dr., Halifax. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 20th, at 2 p.m. in St. Ignatius Church, 1288 Bedford Highway, Bedford, reception to follow in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the QEII Foundation, Palliative Care Unit # PALC. Please visit:

www.jasnowfuneralhome.com