Obituary of Jessie McKeary

McKEARY, Jessie Kennedy (Corbett)  (1934-2018), has passed surrounded by family in her 84th year.   Born in Paisley, Scotland to John Corbett and Jessie (Kennedy) Corbett.  Beloved wife of John McKeary (predeceased).  Dearly loved sister of Johnny and George (Lily) and the late Thomas, Robert (Bobby) and Margaret (Meg).  Sorely missed by her children Marie 'Mary',  Jacqueline 'Jackie' (predeceased) and James (Alison) and her favorite grandchild Evan. She will be fondly remembered by her Sister in Laws, Betty and Ann and her many nieces, nephews and friends in the USA, Australia, England and Scotland.

Jessie was a Canadian by choice who immigrated during Canada's Centennial year of 1967 and proudly embraced both her homelands as well as her Celtic and Gypsy ancestry.  Her employment was a reflection of the times from a Paisley 'Mill Lassie' working at Clarks Thread Mills to Movie usher, and Co-operative clerk.  In Canada. she worked at Robinson's, Hamilton City Hall, and the Stoney Creek landmarks of Gullivers Travels and the Lucky Strike bowling alley.  She spent ten wonderful years as a Teaching Assistant at St. Martin of Tours Elementary School assisting children with their academics and teaching them to paint.  

Jessie loved people and they responded in kind.  She charmed everyone she met with her sparkling eyes and radiant smile.  True to Scottish tradition all were warmly welcomed into her home.  Any child or animal who crossed her path was immediately acknowledged, embraced and received treats.  She had a wonderful fashion style and was always greatly appreciative of a compliment. After becoming widowed at an early age she learned to paint with oils and discovered a hidden talent for portraying the skies and seas of her homeland.  She had a thirst for learning and monitored the 'state of the world' with great interest. She loved to travel whether it be to a distant port of call or a trip out of town with the YWCA, where she was an active member for many years.  Every fibre of her being rejoiced in a good movie, theater play, art gallery outing or classical concert.  Her faith and belief in God sustained her throughout many hardships whether the source was the Presbyterian and Jewish faith of her childhood or the Roman Catholic faith she practiced as an adult.  She had just received her 25th year pin from the CWL of St. Frances Xavier Church in Stoney Creek.  Jessie, was a storyteller, dancer, singer, gardener and teacher, who graced us all with her warmth and humour and the world is a bit colder with her passing.  Mar sin leibh. Special thanks to Kevin, Harlow and Angel who always brought her love and smiles and to John (Jack) Kennedy whose support and numerous acts of kindness allowed Jessie to stay in her own home for as long as possible. Cremation has already taken place.  The family invites you to a Celebration of her Life to be held at the Donald V. Brown Funeral Home, 36 Lake Avenue Drive, Stoney Creek, from 2-4 p.m. on Thursday, July 5, 2018. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Covenant House (Toronto), Effect:Hope Leprosy Foundation, or a charity of your choice. Notes of sympathy and condolence may be made at www.donaldvbrown.ca