Obituary of Jessie (Peter) Peterson O'Neill

O'Neill, Jessie (Peter) Peterson

Jessie (Peter) Peterson O’Neill (née Mair) died June 25, 2023 at the age of 97 after a brief illness incurred while on vacation in her home away from home, Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia.  She was the daughter of the late James and Mae Mair (née Sinclair) and sister of the late Flora Krug and late Frank Mair.  Jessie was the dear sister of Louise McLean and sister-in-law Carole Mair.

Jessie was married for over 52 years to the late John David O’Neill.  Their marriage produced four daughters:  Jane Venezia (late Frank), Patricia Stocco (Brian Scott), Marianne Low (James) and Barbara O’Neill (Robert Wigle).  She was Grandma to John Venezia (Claude Guillemette), Jessica Railton (Craig), Stephanie Stocco (Charles Lewis), Brian Stocco, Amy Glenn (Steven), Katherine Fragiskatos (Panayese), Heather Low (Ian Fraser) and Alexander Low (Melissa).  She was Gigi to Becca, Thom, Daniel, Harriet, Jordan (Kailey), Oliver, Marianna, Lydia, Agatha, Georgia, Theodora, Trae, Ricky and Gabe.  Aunt Jessie will be missed by many nieces and nephews and fast friends from wherever she lived or often visited.

Jessie was nicknamed “Peter” in nurses’ training (1947, Victoria Hospital).  She helped her husband establish the first Ob/Gyn practice in Chatham even as she made a home for her children.  She contributed to her community through various volunteer activities including VON Palliative Care for the terminally ill.  She supported her children and grandchildren in the pursuit of their dreams.

With her quick wit and enthusiasm, Jessie was an inspiration, showing us all how to live while we’re alive.  

As per Jessie's wishes, cremation has taken place.  There will be a Celebration of Life at the Stoneridge Inn, 6675 Burtwistle Lane, London on Thursday July 6 at 11:00 a.m.

In memory of Jessie, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Nature Conservancy of Canada.

Thanks to her London medical team and for the compassionate and diligent care she received at Fishermen’s Memorial Hospital in Lunenburg.  Special thanks to Amy Glenn for her exceptional dedication and care.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com <http://www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com>. 

McKinlay Funeral Home 
459 St. Clair Street,
Chatham
519 351 2040