Jean Helen Rouse

Born in St. Stephen, New Brunswick, Jean was never going to stay put for long. After university, she enlisted in the Army Medical Corps and set off to see the world. Her travels eventually led her to Johns Hopkins University, where she earned her postgraduate degree and became an operating room nurse.

Then she married David McAlary, and as his banking career took them from coast to coast, Jean traded the operating room for a different kind of adventure: raising four children. There was Richard, David's son, who came with the package; Pam and Philip, as planned; and Carol, who wasn't, but turned out pretty well anyway. Along the way, Jean built her own professional life, working for the RCMP among other roles, before the family eventually settled in Victoria, BC.

In Victoria, Jean returned to nursing in long-term care and later found her way to the BC Legislature, a perfect fit for someone who never tired of a good political debate. There, she met Garey and discovered what it truly means to be in love. Their twelve years together were the happiest of her life. When Garey passed, she carried that loss quietly, but she carried on because that's who she was.

Life also brought Jean an unexpected gift. As a young woman, she had made the difficult decision to place her daughter, Sharon, for adoption. Sharon was raised by a loving family, and about fifteen years ago, mother and daughter found each other again.

Jean travelled the world, read constantly, and enjoyed her drinks and cigarettes without a shred of apology. She could hold court on politics with anyone brave enough to engage, and her opinions were never in short supply. Her sense of humour was sharp and a little offbeat, and she had a rare talent for telling it like it is while still making you laugh. She made friends effortlessly and kept them fiercely.

Jean was predeceased by her brother, Victor, and her former husband, David McAlary. She is survived by her children, Sharon, Pam, Philip, Carol, Richard, and step-daughter, Sandra; nine grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and many more good friends.

Celebration of Life

Please join us to celebrate Jean at an open house on Saturday, February 7th, 2026, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at the home of her daughter, Carol, at 1218 Knockan Close, Victoria, BC.

Drop by for drinks, snacks, and stories.

In lieu of flowers, do something she'd approve of: read a good book, speak your mind, or pour yourself something nice.