Obituary of Jean Sadie Kathleen Fairn

Fairn, Jean Sadie Kathleen Waterman, 106, of Dartmouth and Halifax, died October 8th in Saint Vincent’s Nursing Home, Halifax. Born in North Brookfield, Queens County, she was the daughter of the late Edward W. and Sadie (Silver) Waterman. Orphaned at an early age, she grew up in the homes of her older sisters and their families in Queens County until graduating from Annapolis Academy, Annapolis Royal. Beloved wife of Victor for almost 60 years, she had a full and healthy life, living independently into her 105th year. We are grateful to have enjoyed her vital and caring spirit, determination, and practical wisdom, and she will be loved and remain an inspiration for us all. Jean was a volunteer in many community organizations, long active in Anglican Church Women, and the Alexandra Society of the University of King’s College. She was an accomplished sewer and artist. She was the first president of the women’s division at Hartlen Point Golf Club and at age 72 represented Nova Scotia on the Provincial Club Team in the National Championships. She played her last full nine holes with her daughters at age 99. Jean was often the focus of gatherings, the largest being the celebration of her 100th birthday attended by 90+ friends and family. She spoke eloquently and acknowledged each of her many guests. She is survived by her daughters, Linda Clarke, Ottawa, and Carol (George) Rogers, Halifax; grandchildren, Andrew Clarke, Laura (Dirk) Clarke-Brubacher; great grandchildren Zachery, Emelin, and J. T., all of Calgary; many nieces and nephews. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family and was predeceased by her husband, Victor E. Fairn in 1997; son-in-law Robert Clarke; siblings Gladys, Leta, Ethel, Fred and Ruth. Heartfelt thank you to family and friends, many of whom travelled from afar and supported Jean with visits, phone and face time calls, cards, humour, love, and prayers in the later part of her journey. Cremation has taken place. A funeral will be held at a later date, with interment in Harris Cemetery, Moschelle, Annapolis County, in the family plot. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation and/or the Youth Ministry Fund of East Preston United Baptist Church (giving@epubc.ca) where in her latest years she was also warmly included and celebrated in their community. Special thanks to staff at Saint Vincent’s Nursing Home (4th floor) for their excellent care and comfort.