Peacefully, supported by her family, Janet Kerr Nettie Deas passed away on June 11, 2025.
Nettie was many things: a devoted wife, a loving mother and grandmother, a fiercely proud Scot, and the kind of woman who made every room brighter with her presence—and a well-timed, cheeky remark.
Predeceased by the love of her life, John Deas, and her parents, John and Catherine Houston, Nettie now reunites with them and her late siblings, John (Christine) and Rena (Bill). She leaves behind her cherished sister, Margaret (late Jim), and a family who adored her deeply: her children Beth (Dan) Wright of Chatham, Andrew (Alice) Deas of Scarborough, and Ann-Marie Deas (Brent Glasier) of Owen Sound; her beloved grandchildren Kerri (Dan), Danny, Katie (Drew), Andrea (Jeff), Breann (Greg), Samantha (Oliver), Matthew, and Michelle; and her great-granddaughters Evelyn, Madi, and Ryleigh.
Nettie and John emigrated to Canada with their young family in 1975; a brave leap that shaped the generations to come. Though she made a new home here, her accent (and her pride in her Scottish roots) never faded. She was Scottish through and through.
She had a heart of gold and never hesitated to lend a hand, whether through her 25 years of volunteering at Outreach for Hunger, her commitment to her church’s mission group, or her 20 years of dedicated service at the Chatham-Kent Public Library. Her kindness wasn’t loud or showy; it was steady, generous, and unwavering.
She lit up around her grandchildren, especially when the guitars came out for a sing-song. Nothing made her happier than having the whole family together.
Everyone loved Nettie. She was whip-smart, delightfully stubborn, and never missed a chance for a witty comeback. She taught us to show up for each other, to laugh often, and to find joy in the little things. As she would say: “Tomorrow is another day.” She will be profoundly missed.
The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance and the St. Andrew’s Residence team for their support and kindness.
Family to receive friends on Thursday, June 12, 2025 at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham from 6:00 – 8:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 145 Victoria Ave, Chatham at 11:00 am on Friday. Cremation to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Nettie’s memory to Outreach for Hunger.
Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at McKinlay Funeral Home.
