In loving memory of Jeanne Eleanor Geraldine Baker. 

Jeanne was born in Windsor, Ontario on Dec 10th, 1932.  She was one of 12 children born to Thomas and Marie Ida O’keefe (Parent) 

She is survived by her siblings Arthur O’keefe, Joan (Les) Samu, and Mary Dozzi. 

She was predeceased by her siblings, Francis, Melvina, Joseph, John, Gerald, Gloria, Clarence, and  Lucille. Along with her  3 precious infant grandchildren Lacey Lee Baker, Trevor and Tyson Baker, her handsome grandson Brandon Baker and  beautiful daughter Donna Jean Bilokraly (Ron). 

Jeanne’s life was defined by her selfless dedication to caring for others. From her early years as a nurse delivering babies, to her later role running her own daycare, she touched the lives of countless children and families, leaving an undeniable mark of love and care.  Her love of poetry and writing was well known as she took great pride in sending a personal poem to anyone she thought would appreciate her words. 

Retirement didn’t slow her down; instead, it marked the beginning of a new chapter. Jeanne found profound joy in her full-time volunteer work as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, diligently sharing the teachings of the Bible and its hope for the future within her community.  She saw this as a “job transfer” from one important career to another, and her commitment remained steadfast from 1998 until her last day.

Jeanne’s presence was a comforting constant in the lives of many over the past 48 years in Red Deer.  With her trusty Bible in hand, she would travel the streets, ready to share her message of hope for the future. Her warm smile and gentle demeanor invited conversations that left a lasting impact on all those fortunate enough to cross her path.

In 1989, Jeanne’s unwavering faith led her on a remarkable adventure to the Philippines where she attended a convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses.  It was here that she witnessed firsthand the power of love and unity within the organization, an experience that left a permanent mark on her heart.  Her thirst for travel and connection with her roots led her to Ireland with her sister Mary in 2008.  Exploring the land of her ancestors filled her with a profound sense of pride and belonging. Walking the same paths and witnessing the landscapes that her family once called home provided her with a direct link to her heritage.

Beyond her professional and volunteer pursuits, Jeanne was a source of pride and joy for her growing family. Though heartache shadowed with the loss of those who had passed before her, her love and strength radiated through her surviving children Diana (Dennis) Gariepy, Gary, Kim (Dwayne) Black, Kevin (Shelley), Ethan, and James (Joan). Her legacy is exemplified by her many names, from Mom to Grandma to her most common title, Nana.  Her 18 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and great-great grandson all hold dear memories of laughter-filled moments around her kitchen table, playing Yahtzee or Scrabble and sharing meals. Her famous “bowtie” noodles and roast beef were more than just food; they were a symbol of love, comfort, and togetherness.

Jeanne’s life was a tapestry of love, service, and family. Her unwavering faith, dedication, and genuine kindness have left an enduring imprint on all who had the privilege of knowing her. We are deeply saddened by this loss, but filled with the fond memories she has left us with. We look forward to the day her hope of the resurrection will be fulfilled and we can see her again full of her youthful vigour.

• Date : 2023-08-21
• Location : Red Deer Funeral Home