It is with profound sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of Judith-Marie Whitney (nee Pearson) on December 20, 2023.

 

Judy was born November 2, 1955 in Dunnville Ontario. After a hard-fought battle with Congestive Heart Failure and Kidney Disease, she left us December 20, 2023 at the age of 68. 

 

Cherishing her memory is her husband Gord Whitney; children John and Michelle Nault; Grandchildren Josie (Dylan), John James, David and Theya Nault; and Great-Grandchildren Jack, Keenan, Mason, Myles, Julius, Mitchell and Kayden. Judy also leaves behinds siblings Douglas, John (Janice), Pauline, and Theya (Al), as well as many nieces, nephews and other extended family members.

 

She was predeceased by daughter-in-law, Sandra Nault in 2002; mother and best friend, Kathy Henry in 2013; and brother, Robert Pearson in 2016.

 

Judy grew up near Niagara Falls, ON then moved to Winnipeg, MB where she and ex-husband Raymond Nault would have two children. A special thank you to son, John who lived with her until she passed.

She would later marry Gord Whitney. Although separated, the two would remain friends and, in the end, Judy found joy in their lunch dates and comfort in his company.

 

Judy worked a number of jobs; sewing, cooking and waitressing until taking on an Office Manager role at Krown Produce, where she would remain for many years, until her health forced retirement.

 

Judy was a devoted mother and grandmother, always putting family first and providing love and support at any time of day. She spent her life raising children, including three grandchildren that she took in when in her late 40’s and great-grandchildren she saw as often as possible. She especially treasured her relationship with great-grandsons Jack and Myles. She was our chauffeur, teacher, chef, housekeeper, counsellor, babysitter, and so much more. Judy was immensely proud of her family and leaves behind such beautiful memories.

 

Judy was a woman of many hobbies and talents. She loved to cook and bake - pies, cabbage rolls, butter tarts, soups and more. She hosted most holiday and birthday meals right up to her passing. Judy taught herself to crochet, first blankets and later, detailed stuffed animals that she gifted to loved ones. She was also a member and frequent volunteer for social club, Adventures, where she helped organize events and danced the night away with friends. 

 

Most of all, she loved Saturday morning garage sales with her mom, summer BBQs with family, camping at Rushing River with her grandkids or biting into a juicy Ontario peach.

 

Judy had such a beautiful, kind and gentle soul. She was forgiving – always seeing the best in people and never able to hold a grudge for long. She was optimistic, hopeful, whimsical and fiercely independent. To hear her stories was a pleasure. Her dark humour, free spirit and unconditional love will never be forgotten. Judy will be missed terribly.

 

Special thank you to the doctors and nurses at St Boniface Hospital for their hard work, care and dedication. 

 

Cremation has taken place. Judy’s Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, January 28, 2024 from 11am-1pm at the Riverview Health Auditorium.

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“We are all stories in the end, remembered by the adventures we had, the achievements we made and the people we loved. So, make sure your story is a good one.”

– Nishan Panwar

 

"Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow."

- Author Unknown

 

“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.”

- Ghandi