Jeanne (nee Francoeur) Gravelle

Jeanne passed away peacefully, holding her husband’s hand, surrounded by the love of her family at Eastholme on February 12th, 2021 in her 90th year.

Jeanne was born in Chalk River Ontario on December 3rd,1931. She will be missed by her loving spouse of 65 years Maurice Gravelle. Cherished mother of Lynn of North Bay, Gary of North Bay, Anna Marie (Bruce Laviolette) of Pickering, Andre of North Bay, and Laurent (Odette) of Greely.

She will be missed and always remembered by her grandchildren Julie (Blair) of Kars, Natalie (Nash) of London England, Marc (Cindy) of Rockland, Karly of Kirkland Lake, Rachele (Mike) of Innisfil, Dillon (Marianne) of Bowmanville, Fairen (Riley) of Hay River NWT and Jordan (Bailey) of Burlington, as well as by her great-grandchildren Keenan, Estelle, Margoh, Madeline, Ellie, Victor, Olivier, Chloe, Hunter, Aiden, Addison, Amelia, Walter, and Leo. (+2 in June).

Jeanne is survived by her siblings Patrick (Doreen) of Perth, Earl (Sybil) of Mackie, Mark (Brenda) of Pembroke, Loretta of Ottawa and Tina (Bill) of Chalk River.

She is predeceased by her parents Martine Berard Francoeur from Eganville and Drexel Andrew Francoeur of Point Alexander as well by her grandson Joey and by her brothers Raymond (late wife Beverly), Bernard, Edgar, Donald and sisters Theresa (birth), Muriel (late husbands Hiram and Larry).

Jeanne’s marriage in 1949 to Hugh Gallagher ended tragically after three months. She remained close to the Gallagher family all her life. They were loved and cherished by Jeanne. 

She was an active member of the YMCA and TOPS for over 50 years. She was a devout catholic. A proud member of the Catholic Women’s League, Society of St Therese of Lisieux, and St Joseph’s Oratory for 75 years.

Jeanne had 11 god children. Patrick Legris, Bernadette Morin, Robert Jeanneault, Andrew Conroy (deceased), Audrey Cliche, Donald Gravelle, Mary Ellen Cliche, Richard Generoux, Lorrie Anne Francoeur, Tod Moir and Michael Gravelle.

In 1972 to honour her own mothers passing, she and her sister-in-law Yvonne went on pilgrimage to the Basilica of Saint Anne de Beaupre. Prayer being a constant part of her life, that was a perfect place for her to Glorify the Lord for a mother whom she dearly loved. The many celebrations at Christmas and throughout the year with the Gravelle Families.

Family was woven into every detail of life. Her strong bonds of motherhood would welcome Lynne, Nadine, Vicki, and Denise into her life forever. Jeanne worked as a Bell Canada long distance operator in the 1950’s until attaining her most valued role as mother of five.

She and Maurice were regulars on the dance floor at The Golden Age Club on Saturday nights. They met at a dance hall in the 50’s. Violins, live country music, dancing and family would forever be a part of their lives. Jeanne's longstanding friendships were many. 

She will be missed by her best friends Anita Gravelle, Mary Jeanneault, Diane Girard, Margret, Bella, Angele, Elise and Gisele. Joined in Heaven with Lorean Generoux, Sister Mary King and Beverly.

Mother was proud of everyone she knew. She loved everyone she met. She emulated love. A heart of pure love. Loyalty to family. Her family, Maurice’s family, the Gallaghers, her children grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews. She attended every family function with so much pride and joy. 

It is fitting that Mother left this earth on Family Day Long Weekend. No coincidence! Mother’s core value was love, love of family and togetherness!

The family will receive visitors at the McGuinty Funeral Home (North Bay) on Sunday March 14, 2021 from 2 to 4pm and 7 to 9pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Saint Peter the Apostle Roman Catholic Church on Monday March 15, 2021 at 11am.

(Due to Current Covid-19 Restrictions Attendance at a visitation, and at a Church is scheduled by appointment only as there are limits in place for attendees. Please call the funeral home to book your appointment time 705-472-8520)

Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.mcguintyfuneralhome.com