BOTTOMS, Jean

1942 ~ 2026

Beverley Jean Bottoms, lovingly known as Jean, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at the age of 83.

Jean was born on June 29, 1942, in Belleville, Ontario, to a military father and a devoted mother whose home was filled with the warmth of cooking, baking, and preserves made from her garden. From her mother, Jean learned the value of hard work, resourcefulness, and creating comfort through food and family — skills that would guide her throughout her life. She was predeceased by her brother, Jim, whom she loved dearly.

She graduated from nursing school at Belleville General Hospital in 1962, beginning a career that was far more than a profession — it was her calling. In 1963, she met the love of her life, Doug, on a blind date. They married in 1965 and went on to share 60 wonderful years together.

As an RCMP family, Jean and Doug moved frequently across Canada, embracing new communities and new adventures along the way. No matter where they lived, Jean had the remarkable gift of turning every house into a warm and welcoming home.

While raising their three children — Heather, Bryne, and Martha — Jean balanced family life with her dedication to nursing. Though resources were sometimes modest, her creativity and determination ensured her children never missed out. She sewed costumes, found inventive solutions, and supported each child wholeheartedly in pursuing their dreams. Her encouragement was steady and unwavering.

Throughout her nursing career, Jean worked in several areas but found her true passion in home care nursing. She brought not only clinical skill but compassion, dignity, and heartfelt kindness to those she cared for. Her patients were never just cases — they were people she served with love and respect.

After retiring from nursing, Jean continued her life of service by working with Victim Services out of the Red Deer RCMP detachment. She was a vital member of the team that supported the community following the Pine Lake disaster, offering comfort and steady support to survivors and to those who had lost friends and family members. Even in retirement, she answered the call to care for others in their most difficult moments.

Jean and Doug shared a deep love of travel and adventure. Over the years, they explored California, Bermuda, Costa Rica, England, Scotland, Ireland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Germany, Greece, Turkey, and Mexico, enjoyed a Caribbean cruise, and travelled extensively across Canada. While she treasured all their journeys, her favourite destinations always included sunshine, beaches, and a margarita in hand.

In later years, her greatest joy was her grandchildren — Sarah and Douglas — who were truly the light of her life. She cherished every visit, every milestone, and every moment spent with them. She also held her granddaughter Lynsi dear in her heart, though they had not been in contact for many years. Jean also shared a special bond with her son-in-law, Terry, who was an important part of her extended family.

Jean had a lifelong love of animals, and there was rarely a time when her home did not include beloved four-legged companions. In quieter moments, she found joy in scrapbooking, reading, knitting, and gathering with her girlfriends to share stories and a glass of wine. Many family members and friends were warmed not only by her hospitality, but by the beautiful knitted pieces she lovingly created.

Jean will be remembered for her warmth, strength, creativity, resilience, and deep devotion to her family. She built a life rooted in love, service, and generosity — a legacy that lives on in her children, grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in our hearts.

Jean is survived by her husband, Doug; her children Heather, Bryne, and Martha; the MacPherson family, including Terry; her grandchildren Douglas and Sarah; her sister-in-law Donna Plummer; and her nephews Christopher and Greg.

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer)

ONLY LOCALLY FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER

“Caring Community Compassion Since 1999”

6287 – 67A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

• Date : 2026-03-15
• Location : Parkland Funeral Home (Red Deer) www.parklandfuneralhome.com 403.340.4040