Janet Marie Jackson

Predeceased by her loving husband of 45 years, William Jackson, parents Eileen and Philip Richardson, father-in-law Tom Jackson, as well as nephews, Gord and Dean Richardson. Survived by long time friend and fiancé, Wayne Beatty, children; Scott (Rosanna) Jackson, Christine (Boris) Utzler and siblings; Bruce Richardson (Almas Moledina), Ken Richardson (Thea Senior), Marcia (Gerry) Allardice, Judi (Bill) Mainwaring and Mike (Barb) Richardson, mother-in-law Florence Jackson, grandchildren; Linden (fiancé Azedeh Gagnon), Ashlynn, Matteo and Charlottta, lifelong treasured friend Bim Bouchard, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Janet was born in Vancouver and raised in Sea Island and Deep Cove. She was an exceptional worldwide citizen, traveling to over 90 countries, including multiple trips throughout Europe with her younger grandchildren. She and Bill were seasoned sailors and travelled for many years throughout the Americas with family and friends, including an extensive trip with her 2 older grandchildren.  Janet made friends along the way, including a tight knit boating family. She was passionate about giving back and did so in many ways, including multiple missions for optometry service to third world countries, which included helping establish a permanent eye care facility.

Janet was a steadfast and tenacious person, believing that whatever she lacked, she could make up with hard work and persistence. When she or a loved one was burdened with an overwhelming situation, she broke it down to simpler terms: Problem, reaction, solution.

The relationship that she shared with her siblings was lovingly uncommon. Each of them cherish and appreciate one another. They brought laughter and light to each other even during the darkest times. When the six siblings were together, belly laughs were sure to follow.

It was at Windsor High School where she met her best friend, Bim. Janet was a strong athlete and team player, winning “Athlete of the Year” multiple times. However, in her grad year she tied, sharing the honour with Bim, making it that much sweeter. The records that Janet made in Sprinting were unchanged for many years. Janet and Bim met their husbands, together while on an SFU ski trip.

Janet was a lifelong learner who was passionate about gardening, hiking, skiing and sailing. She was fluent in Morse code, as well as many other complicated tasks of sailing. She made the best of even the most challenging situations and rarely complained. She maintained her grace and strength right until the end.

After Bill passed away, Janet was blessed to find love again with her long time friend Wayne Beatty.

Saturna was the place where she felt most peaceful. “No matter how long I stay at Saturna, I always want to stay one more day”.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Afretech and Rotary Intl. greatly appreciated. www.afretech.org. www.rotary.org (Maternal and child health)

Funeral Mass on Thursday, March 16 at 11:00 am at Good Shepherd Roman Catholic Church, 2250 – 150 St., White Rock, B.C.

You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence for the family.