Jean Parsons

Jean Parsons passed away peacefully on September 10th at the age of 84.

Hers was a life filled with love and adventure. Born in South Devon, England, she married her first husband, Tony, at the age of 21 and had a baby daughter, Charlotte, before emigrating to Canada and making a home on Ward’s Island in Lake Ontario. Jean and Tony had a second child, Claire, and lived briefly in Australia before returning to Canada and settling in West Vancouver.

There, Jean channelled her passion for languages into a career in education. French and ESL students across West Vancouver came to know her as the guitar-carrying teacher who brought music into their classrooms. She also spent a year teaching in Japan, where she quickly mastered the language.

After Tony died at the age of 43, Jean found love again with her second husband Michael. They travelled the world together, exploring modern cities, ancient ruins and Parisienne cafes.

When grandchildren arrived, Jean embraced this new role with her whole heart, taking them to the beach, the playground, Granville Island, the aquarium. She even travelled to London, where she spent months helping with childcare so her daughter could return to work.

Retirement didn’t slow Jean down. Filled with energy, she threw herself into dance lessons, language groups and singing circles. She swam in the ocean and walked along the sea wall.

But she also enjoyed quieter moments, at home with her beloved Michael, sharing home cooked meals and admiring their beautiful view, holding hands on the front porch.

She lived life to the full and loved every moment. She will be greatly missed.

Jean is survived by her husband Michael, her daughters Claire and Charlotte and her many grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers please send a donation to Brock House, the senior’s centre she loved.

A family celebration of life will be held at a later date.