Mary Margaret "Jessie" (Smith) Roussie

Jessie was born on May 12, 1931 near Chatham, NB. She was the daughter of the late George Smith of Chatham, NB.

Jessie is survived by her children Colleen (Gordon) of Toronto, Ont., Stephen (Ann Marie) of AB, Brian (Barbara) of Toronto, Ont. and David (Kathy) of FL. She was predeceased by her husband, Nelson James Roussie (Gus) who died in 2016 and by her two sons, Eric and Randy (Cindy) and her sister Betty (Tom). Jessie is cherished by her seven grandchildren, Kaleigh (Chris) and Alexander Zimmerman, Annik Roussie (Luc), Raven Roussie, Eric Roussie and Joel and Justin (Cindy) Roussie.

Jessie was a loving wife, mother, mother-in-law and grandmother and will be greatly missed. She was a beautiful vibrant woman. Jessie and her husband married when they were very young and had six children together. Her family was her greatest joy and she took pride in them. She enjoyed nothing more than spending time with family and celebrating special occasions.

Jessie had an enterprising spirit, an independent character and a strong sense of self-reliance. She taught school as a supply teacher for a number of years. She strongly believed in the benefits of education and pushed each of her children to obtain a university education. She gave them opportunities and encouraged them to be intelligent, responsible, adventuresome and resourceful persons.

She loved the north shore of NB, both the beauty of it and the outdoors life it offered. While living in Campbellton, she spent many hours on the Restigouche River with her husband at their place and in their canoe, enjoying nature, the scenery and the quietness. Jessie and her husband moved to Bathurst after living in Campbellton for decades. She loved her life in these communities where she made many great friends. When she moved to Bathurst, she loved her home on the river, the wildlife and the splendour of Mother Earth.

She had a strong religious belief which was with her throughout her life. As a result, she lived her life with strong values. She was sharp, smart and thoughtful. She enjoyed travelling, particularly with her family. Jessie was an avid curler and cross country skier. She was a fabulous cook and loved to cook for her family. She was a devoted gardener throughout her life – her homes were surrounded by beautiful gardens and trees.

In her younger years, she was active in politics in Campbellton, dedicated her time to the political process for the betterment of her community and throughout her life was a student of politics.

Jessie had a strong determination in everything in her life. When she was in her early thirties, she was diagnosed a celiac resulting in her having a very restricted diet in order to be healthy. She stuck to that diet until she died at the age of 90, of old age and still relatively healthy until her passing.

There will be no visitation or service.

Donations may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Maher's Funeral Home, Campbellton and Cresmount Funeral Home, Hamilton, ON.

(506)789-1699 or toll free (855) 404-1699 email: [email protected]