Mary Jean Arseneault

Mary Jean* (Gallant) Arseneault of Nackawic, NB passed away in the early morning hours of December 21, 2018 at the Saint John Regional Hospital. She was born in Dalhousie, NB on December 21, 1930, the child of two Newfoundland immigrants, the late James and Emily (Applin) Gallant. In many ways Jean remained a child of Newfoundland, facing life with fortitude and humour. She selflessly dedicated herself to her life’s work as wife, mother, and grandmother, but also worked as a telephone operator, store clerk, floral designer, and seamstress. Jean often took on voluntary positions, at different times being a Brownie leader, Sunday School teacher, classroom assistant, and canvasser for numerous charities. She was a devoted member of the Anglican Parish of Prince William.
If her heart failed her, it was only in the physical sense. Like the “good woman” described in Proverbs, Jean tried her best to exemplify devotion, grace, diligence, and love. As her many friends will attest, her characteristic trait was compassion: “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.”
Jean was pre-deceased by her husband of 63 years, John Wilfred Arseneault; her parents; her sister, Marie; her brothers, Albert, Kevin, and Lawrence.
She leaves behind four children: Albert Arseneault (Virginia), Marysville, NB; Mary Fearon, Dalhousie, NB; Ruth Arseneault, Riverview, NB; and Frederick Arseneault, Fredericton, NB; eleven grandchildren: Jeannie, Becky, John, Michaela, Tara, Delaney, Gavin (Jolene), Morgan, Jesse (Stephanie), Tyler, and Emily; four great-grandchildren: Corey, Tyler, Layla, and Cohen; two sisters: Stella Donahue and Patsy Guitard; and several nieces and nephews.
Many friends attended a funeral service on Thursday, December 27, 2018 at St. Clement's Anglican Church, 6831 Route 102, Dumfries, NB, with the Rev. Fr. David Mercer officiating. Music was provided by the church choir and the congregation with Cathy Goguen as organist. A reception followed in the church fellowship room.
Honorary pallbearers were Nancy Eldridge, Linda Brewer, Gertrude Wilson, Dorothy LeClair, Sandra Wood and Denise Gorham.
For those who wish, donations may be made to the Parish of Prince William or to a charity of the donor's choice. No flowers by request.
Arrangements by Flewelling Funeral Home, Nackawic, NB.