Obituaries

Date of birth: July 6, 1943
Date of death: August 8, 2026

Age: 83

"Never to suffer would never to have been blessed" - Edgar Allan Poe

Jean Lois Whillier, a daughter, a wife, a mother, an aunt, a cousin, and humble bright beacon in an ever-changing world. A Grandmother, Great-grandmother, and a selfless soul, has passed at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital after an enduring and painful struggle. Her devoted husband Tom maintained vigil by her side. Bless her heart, we miss her, we love her.

Jean was born in Wayne, Alberta and grew up in Big Valley, Alberta, where she met and married her husband of 62 years, Tom. She started her journey in to motherhood and family life with the birth of her first son Reg followed by sons Leslie, Angus, and a daughter Tammy. Jean was a devoted mother and wife showing strength and grace in everything she did. She was a diligent, hard worker. Besides wrangling four children, she held various jobs primarily based in bookkeeping. However, a lot of people will remember her for bringing Grande Prairie the daily news in the form of The Edmonton Journal. She retired after supporting her husband’s successful oilfield contracting company.

Jean enjoyed travelling and never said no to a road trip, the further the better. She loved camping and could often be found holding down base camp, even if it meant chasing bears with brooms.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers who supported Jean with unwavering love and compassion during her final days.

“Gone yet not forgotten, although we are apart, your spirit lives within me, forever in my heart.”

Jean is survived by her husband Tom Whillier, children Reg (Wanda), Les, Angus (Patti), Tammy (Edward), as well as grandchildren Alyssa (Tyler) Harnish, Kara-Lee (Chance) Bonneau, Jennifer, Courtney (Corey Nobes) and Sean, more than a couple great grandchildren and many loving nieces, nephews and in laws.

Jean was predeceased by a grandson Jared, a sister Ollie (Olga), two brothers, Bill and Michael, and infant sister Ann.

There will be no services held at Jean’s request.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital Foundation.

Care entrusted to Bear Creek Funeral Home 780-830-7742 bcfh.ca