July 15, 1923-January 20, 2012
The “Matriarch” is gone.
In her 89th year, surrounded by her loving family.
Jessie was born in Essex, GBR, and served as a Corporal in the R.A.F. She arrived in Canada as a War Bride, settling in Prince Edward Island. She spent many years as an advocate for Native rights and culture in Canada. She was a past member of Catholic Women’s League, St. Vincent de Paul and The Royal Canadian Legion. She earned her degree in Family Counselling in 1978, at the age of 55. She tirelessly served the communities of Durham Region and then Huron County, when relocating to Goderich.
Predeceased by her husband, Frederick (Freddie) William Purser (1992), her second husband, Joseph Lawrence (Lawrie) Arseneau (2010) and her granddaughter, Jamie Patricia (Trish) Baird (2006).
Survived by 7 children, Mary (Donny) of Freelton, Pamela (Ed) of Hamilton, Barron/Barney (Gayle) of Goderich, Donald (Elizabeth) of Hamilton, Kerry (Lauren) of Waubaushene, Norah (Don) of Exeter, Shelagh (Greg) of Charlottetown, 18 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, as well as extended family, young and old.
Visitation 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Monday, January 23, 2012, McCallum and Palla Funeral Home, Goderich. Funeral mass, St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, Goderich, Tuesday, January 24, 2012, 11 a.m. Spring interment, St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada or the Children’s Miracle Network would be greatly appreciated.

Hommages