Obituary of Jane Kathryn Whitman-Peebles
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It is with profound sadness & heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jane Kathryn Whitman Peebles. Born during the first snowstorm of the winter on February 24th, 1947, Jane passed peacefully on the morning of Friday, January 20th, 2023, during the first snowstorm of this winter.
She sadly leaves her dear husband, Robert (Bob) Peebles; and beloved daughters, Heather and Susan (Halifax); brother, James Whitman (Pugwash); nieces, Pam (Donnie) LeDrew (Saskatchewan), and Patti (Glenn) Boulter (New Brunswick), and survived by extended family and many friends, whose lives she touched.
She was predeceased by her loving parents, Avard and Hazel (Silver) Whitman who resided in Dartmouth; sister-in-law, Thaxena (Mattatal) Whitman.
Jane grew up in Dartmouth where she spent many hours at the Banook Canoe Club and the “Y”. She graduated from Dartmouth High, then studied nursing at the Aberdeen Hospital Nursing School in New Glasgow where she graduated in 1968. Shortly after graduation, she met the man who became her best friend, Bob Peebles on a blind date arranged by both of their parents. Eight days later they were engaged to be married. Their lives together span several provinces and communities; therefore, Jane’s nursing career followed many paths. She worked in labour and delivery, outpatients, general medicine, Inservice Director and, Infection Control Officer in several hospitals and communities across the country. Jane’s favorite and most impactful position was as Assistant Dean of Student Services at the NS Agricultural College in Bible Hill, NS. Jane was devoted to the well-being of the students and staff and formed support and advocacy groups such as a peer educators group called RESPECT, an LGBTQ support group called SAAFE, an Al-Anon group as well as a women’s spirituality group at the university. Jane received recognition for the ground-breaking support she provided when she was awarded the first-ever Public Health Advocacy Award by the College of Nurses.
Before cancer, Jane and Bob enjoyed a wonderful retirement life. Good health, an abundance of friends, a beautiful home, and drives to the South Shore were among their favorite times. They enjoyed many trips throughout the world, creating beautiful memories, and making many special friends along the way. They spent several winters in Myrtle Beach and Portugal, forming a new community of friends. They walked the beach, golfed, and enjoyed book clubs and dinner parties. They formed lasting friendships both in the Maritimes and abroad that they treasured dearly.
The family would like to acknowledge the support of her friends and family during her illness as we greatly appreciate all the comfort, food and gifts people provided as she felt very loved and appreciated in her time of need. We would also like to thank the Cancer Care Centre at the Dickson Center as well as the VG Hospital for their exceptional care.
Cremation has taken place under the care of T. J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, Halifax.
The committal will be private. A tulip themed Celebration of Life will be held in May to honor Jane for family and invited guests.
At this time, in lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to Parker Street Food Bank or the Salvation Army. Jane asked that people remember her by being kind to those you meet and giving what you can to those who have little.
“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die”- Thomas Campbell
