We are deeply saddened by the passing of Jean Abbott, beloved mother, grandmother and friend, on December 4, 2024, at the age of 93. Jean was born in Royston, UK on October 28, 1931, in the house her father built, a place that would always remain dear to her heart.

Jean attended college and later became a home economics teacher, where the students surely benefited from her many skills in cooking, sewing and crafting. In 1953, she married Derrick Abbott. They went on to build a family and a life full of adventure. In the 1950s, Jean and Derrick set off for Nigeria, where they lived for several years before immigrating to Canada in 1966. The moves marked the beginning of new chapters for Jean, filled with new friendships and new experiences.

Jean was a woman of many talents and endless creativity. She was an expert baker, tailor and her needlepoint projects were simply beautiful. Jean was the proprietor of a cake shop for several years, where her delicious creations became the highlight of many celebrations. She was known for baking her children wedding cakes and even making a tuxedo and a wedding dress. Jean family and friends often spoke of her culinary delights, from her famous cakes to her thoughtful homemade meals. No one could resist her shortbread and chocolate truffles.

Jean had a zest for life that was contagious. She was the Commodore of the Mississauga Canoe Club for several years, inspiring others with her leadership and adventurous spirit. She was an avid traveler visiting over forty countries and always seeking out new experiences. At the age of 80, she ziplined in Costa Rica, proving that age was no barrier to her sense of adventure.

Jean’s greatest love was her family. She was predeceased by her beloved son Jeremy and is survived by her son Simon and his wife Anne, her son Jonathan and his wife Anne, and her daughter-in-law Mary Jane. Jean loved her boys’ spouses and told everyone that she was blessed with three sons and three daughters. To her “daughters”, she was not just a mother-in- law but a cherished second mother and friend. Jean was also a doting grandmother and loved spending time with her four grandchildren Matthew, Christopher, Madeleine and Stephen. When not with them, she bragged proudly about their many accomplishments.

Jean’s legacy is one of kindness, strength and an unwavering commitment to family. She had a way of making everyone she encountered feel special and all were welcome in her home.

A gathering will be held at a later date to celebrate Jean’s life.