Peacefully, on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at Bluewater Health, Jean Elizabeth (McOuat) Gordon passed away at the age of 86.
Beloved wife of the late John (Jack) Gordon. Devoted mother to Deborah, Patricia (Neil) McRae, and Kenneth (Magalie). Loving grandmother to her adored grandchildren Jules Gordon, Lily-Fee Gordon, Amanda (Ryan) Jasevicius, and great-granddaughter Zoe Jasevicius. Cherished sister to Patricia McOuat, brother-in-law Bill Buckland, aunt to Bruce (Debbie) Buckland and Kim Buckland (Dave) and great aunt to Riley Buckland and Quinn Buckland.
Jean was born in Montreal, and grew up in the town of Lachute, QC. Her faith and involvement in the United Church greatly attributed to her belief in the importance of being in and contributing to community; helping and aiding others in need. At the age of 18, Mum earned her teaching certificate from MacDonald College (QC) and subsequently taught for 7 years in St. Eustache, Shawinigan and Granby QC. Through teaching, she enjoyed exploring new horizons and supported her students with kindness and care. She eventually returned to Lachute, and married Jack in 1962 which led to many more adventures in their 60 years together and new destinations she never believed she would see – including a move to Sarnia in 1972.
After raising ‘the kids‘, Mum chose to reconnect with her teaching skills and began a new challenge as the Christian Education Worker at Central United Church, a position she very much enjoyed, along her involvement in the U.C.W. (including being a part of the famous Central United turkey pot pie making events that helped make the church bazaars a great success!). Jean loved to gather people around the dining table or on the front porch for good food, conversations and laughter. We cherish the memory that we were able to continue this tradition as recently as this summer with childhood friends and neighbours gathered round.
Our sincere thanks to the palliative team at Bluewater Health, especially Dr. Kim, John Metcalf and Brad George who made it possible for Mum to be able to stay in her home for as long as possible. Ever pragmatic, Jean knew when it was time to move to palliative care (for a very brief stay) and was at peace with her life and the next part of her journey. We are so grateful for that.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Jean’s life will be held at Dunlop Central Church on Saturday October 10th, 2026 (visitation at 10:00 a.m. with service at 11:00 a.m. and celebration to follow).
Sympathy may be expressed through donations to the Inn of the Good Shepherd (www.theinnsarnia.ca), Sleeping Children Around the World (SCAW: www.scaw.org) or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.
Source: Smith Funeral Home & Family Centre
