With great sadness we announce the sudden passing of Jean Lowe at home peacefully surrounded by her family on May 20, 2023 at the age of 94.

Predeceased by parents Gladys and Clarence Beckels, husband Graham (1964), siblings Germaine Isaac (Bill), Aubrey, and cousin Leonard Malott.

Beloved mother of Catherine Hughes (Peter Sr.), Neville, Shelley Dorsey (Brian), Heather Murray (Brian d.), Tracey and Derryck (Denise).

Sadly missed by her sister Idola Semple (Philip d.).

Adored Gramma to Peter Jr. (Leanne), Emma (Michael), Osaze, Julia, Aubrey, Lysa and Great Grandmother to Wyatt and Thomas.

Jean was cherished by many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was also Momma-Jean and a devoted personal friend and confidante to many.

Born in Toronto, Ontario, to parents Gladys and Clarence Beckels, who later moved the family to Brantford, Ontario. They resided in a house her grandparents had built after escaping slavery in the United States and coming to Canada through the Underground Railroad. While growing up during the depression years, Jean attended Major Ballachey Public School. During her school years she was active in Brownies and Girl Guides as a Leader, Captain and Commissioner. She also worked as a playground supervisor during summer vacations while attending Brantford Collegiate Institute. After graduation was trained as a furrier and then stylishly hand tailored fur coats while employed with Dempster Furriers. Later she moved to Toronto worked in the secretarial field at The Toronto Housing Corporation, met Graham Lowe at a social event and married him in 1954.

In 1960, they settled their young family in a new suburb of Toronto called Park Royal/Clarkson later known as the city of Mississauga. Unfortunately, Graham died in an auto accident in 1964. She carried on to raise their six children on her own.

Jean was a woman who graciously overcame chronic health concerns all through her life, suffering many personal losses along the way. She drew on her Christian faith to live a full joyous life as a strong independent, resilient, nurturing mother and special friend. As a mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend she filled our hearts, lives and souls with fun, joy, love and hope and will be terribly missed.

Jean, always the classy fashionista excelled at sewing, tailoring, crocheting and knitting, an exceptional baker and cook. She learnt many homemaking skills that had been passed down from her ancestry. Sitting outside in her garden to read her newspaper with a cup of tea or glass of wine was a favorite pastime. A gracious hostess who always enjoyed entertaining friends and family. A wealth of life experience made her a great listener, advice giver and confidant. Her laugh and spirit were contagious.

As an original member of St. Bride’s Anglican Church, she was actively involved with many roles such as the Women’s Auxiliary (ACW) and leading various youth ministries. A woman of strong Christian devotion, blessed with courage and conviction, her strong faith is reflected in her love for others.

Friends may call on Friday, May 26, 2023 at Turner & Porter (Peel Chapel), 2180 Hurontario Street, Mississauga (Hwy 10 N of QEW).from 5 -8 p.m.

As one of the original founders of St. Brides Church, she will lie in repose there on Saturday, May 27, 2023 from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.

A funeral service will commence at 1:00 p.m. at St. Brides Church, 1516 Clarkson Rd N, Mississauga, ON L5J 2W9, with reception to follow. Livestream at https://churchofstbride.com/JeanLowe

Private Interment.