Jean Patricia Matthews

Our beloved Mum and Gran, Jean Patricia Matthews (nee Mills) passed away peacefully at Peace Arch Hospital on January 7, 2025 at the age of 93. 

 A long-time resident of White Rock, Jean was born in Brigg, England and emigrated to Canada in 1963 with her husband and young son. Jean was predeceased by her husband Geoff, and early widowhood at the age of 42 propelled her into a career of 22 years with the BC Ministry of Health, retiring in 1996 as the Director of the Surrey Alcohol and Drug Treatment Program where she received the medallion of distinction from the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse.

Creating family and community wherever she went, retirement did not slow her down. Jean was for many years the Executive Director of the Ocean Park Community Association and also served for 25 years as a Marriage Commissioner for South Surrey/White Rock. Jean touched the lives of everyone she met. A true nurturer, she loved gardening, cooking & baking. She met many of her White Rock friends at the local dog park and through the OPCA. 

 Jean cherished time spent with her extended family and friends, and in her final days, reflected on her multitude of friendships and connections. She was everlastingly grateful for all the love and support over the years.

 Jean is survived by her three children (Nigel, Jane, and Susan), two sons-in-law (Kevin and David) and five grandchildren (Katie, Meghan, Thomas, Emma, and Tessa). A Celebration of Life will be planned in the spring, to celebrate her love of the outdoors near the sea that she loved so much. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation.

 We will miss her dearly.