Obituary of Jessie Marguerite O'Keefe

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of our mother, Jessie Marguerite (Morrison) O’Keefe, 86, on Wednesday September 6th at Northwood Centre in Halifax, NS. Born in Sydney on October 16th, 1936, Jessie was the daughter of Maude (Williams) and Dougall Morrison. Jessie is survived by her 4 children, Susan (Robert) Muise, John (Cindy), Stephen (Elma Santos) and Kevin (Takashi Matsumoto). She is also survived by 6 grandchildren, Megan Muise, Matthew O’Keefe, Jonathan O’Keefe (Kira Golden), Erin O’Keefe (Steven Cromlish), Maya Santos O’Keefe and Lily Santos O’Keefe. Also surviving are brother-in-law, Greg (Mary) O’Keefe, sister-in-law, Rita O’Keefe and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband of 54 years, Redmond; her siblings, Veronica (John) MacNeil, Joe (Margaret) Morrison, Mary (Jack) Reid, Louise (Jack) Gushue, and Camella (Frank) Osborne. She was also predeceased by sisters-in-law, Olive MacPhee, Sister Maria Lawrence; and brother-in-law, Larry. Jessie was very spiritual. Her faith and family were of utmost importance to her. She was a Past President of the St. Theresa’s Parish CWL. As a mature student, she undertook university studies in theology. She and Redmond were committed to ecumenism and progressive change within the Catholic Church. Jessie worked for Maritime Tel & Tel for over 20 years along with CJCB, and McCurdy & Company. She enjoyed travelling, yoga, and exercise classes. She recognized the importance of ideas and was an avid reader; community and connection were important to her, and she had a kind word for everyone she met especially if she could figure out how she was related. The family is grateful for the loving care that Jessie received under the direction of Kristine Efenio, RN, Dr. Claire Nowlan and her many kind caregivers with Northwood. Memorial donations to the Northwood Foundation Dignified Living Fund or the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia would be graciously accepted. Arrangements have been entrusted to T.J.Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists. Cremation has taken place. A Funeral Service, with Rev. Tom MacNeil presiding, will take place at T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists (71 McQuade Lake Cres. Halifax) on September 25th at 11:00, followed by a reception. Interment will take place next spring/summer followed by a Celebration of Life reception in Sydney.