Obituary of Jackie Crow

Crow, Jacqueline Marie (nee Belanger)

Jacqueline (Jackie) Crow daughter of the late Roland & Yvonne (nee Trudell) passed away peacefully in her 68th year, after a brief battle with cancer. Surrounded by her family from beginning to end, Jackie left this world the way she had lived it-surrounded by love.

Jackie’s story began in 1955 on the family farm, where she spent her formative years developing a deep love for gardening, cooking, canning, and the pleasures of country life. Her childhood was filled with fond memories, and she often delighted in sharing stories of her and her siblings’ early days on the farm.

At just 15, Jackie found the love of her life just down the road. She and Brian became inseparable teenagers and spent more than 50 years together until his passing in 2023. Jackie’s greatest joy was always her family. Not only did she pour her heart into caring for, and doting on Brian and her sons Jeff and Jason, she also thrilled in spending weekends and holidays gathered with her siblings and their families; it was one of her greatest pleasures.  She spent many hours in ice rinks watching her boys play hockey where she met and maintained life long friendships. 

Though she was a master of domesticity, Jackie was also incredibly proud of her long and successful career at Union Gas in Chatham. After graduating from St. Clair College with a secretarial diploma, she began her career at Union Gas in 1974. With a combination of intelligence, drive, and hard work, she steadily climbed the corporate ladder, eventually reaching  management roles. During Jackie's career and up to her retirement, she was the Manager of the Regional Analysts (RITAs). She was instrumental in establishing the Union Gas IT help desk and helped the organization transition technologies over the decades she worked there. She travelled throughout the province helping her RITAs support the organization and their technology needs. Not only was she respected by her staff, but her dedication and loyalty to all she came in contact with, made her an outstanding leader and inspired her children, nieces, nephews, grandchildren and everyone around her. 

Despite her professional success, she prioritized family time and took great pleasure in preparing home cooked dinners, which were enjoyed around the table almost every evening. 

But one of Jackie’s most defining roles was that of caregiver. Later in life, she devoted countless hours to supporting many relatives during their illnesses, and then caring for Brian during his health struggles. Jackie’s dedication, her endless note-taking, and her tireless advocacy for the well-being of those she loved are part of the legacy she leaves behind. 

Jackie’s generosity, hard work, and selflessness defined her life, and her influence will continue to be felt by all who knew her. She is predeceased by her beloved husband, Brian, and is survived by her sons, Jeff (Lyne) and Jason (Anna), and her cherished grandchildren, Jules, Gabriella, and Charlie. Sister to the late Chuck Bélanger (Elaine), Claire Vickery (Dan), Denise Desrochers (Denis), Louise Aitken (Dan), Marie Cadotte and the late Diane Bélanger (Jim Britnell). Also missed by many nieces, nephews, friends and extended family.

Jackie’s life was one of love, devotion, and care-a life that will not soon be forgotten.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the Emergency and PCU staff of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance for their tremendous care, compassion and love during Jackie's time with them. As well, a special thank you to Dr. Elyse Epp for her care and advocacy during Jackie’s illness. 

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Jackie's life will be held at the McKinlay Reception Centre, 463 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Saturday, December 28, 2024 from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. 

A Private Family interment will be held at Immaculée Conception Cemetery at a later date. 

Donations made in memory of Jackie to the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation. 

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home, 
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham

 519-351-2040