McNEILL, THERESA - Theresa McNeill passed away peacefully at home April 21, 2012 surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with cancer. Theresa was born in Saint John on July 23, 1938 to the late Austin Burke and Gertrude Cooper (Jenkins). Theresa’s life centered around her children, her grandchildren and what she could do for others.
She leaves behind her loving husband Daniel McNeill of 56 years, three sons Danny (Lee) of Fredericton, Bill (Rachel) of Saint John, and David (Terri) of Surrey, B.C; daughters Terry Vriezen (Theo) of Surrey, B.C. and Ann Marie Barber (Darren) of Corruna,Ont; grandchildren Lucenda, Lottie, Leaha, Brendan, Tristin, Daniella, Kaitlyn, Chelsey, Stephanie, Jennifer, Heather, and Jackie; great grandchildren Shelby and Kailynn and several nieces and nephews. Besides her parents she was predeceased by brothers Austin Burke, Patrick Cooper; sisters Shirley Conroy, Rose Frankton and Barbara Smith and step-father Robert Cooper. Theresa was a long time valued staff member at Prince Charles School who could often be seen early in the morning washing uniforms or getting water ready for the kids for their games. She continued her connection even after retirement filling in when needed in the breakfast program, going on class trips, baking for the Fall Fair and helping with Holiday Hampers. Also in retirement Theresa kept active as a volunteer at the Saint John Regional Hospital and the New Brunswick ALS Society. She loved her travel to New York, across Canada to Vancouver, cruise to Alaska, and her local area trips especially the shopping excursions in Maine with friends and family. Special thanks to the Saint John Extra Mural Program and the many supportive family and friends especially Carol Ann Sonier and Jane Symington.
By Theresa’s request there will be no visitation. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, May 3, 2012 at 12 noon at St. Pius X Catholic Church (316 Somerset Street) followed by a reception downstairs. Interment to follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers Theresa has requested donations in her memory to the Prince Charles Breakfast Program (317-319 Union Street, Saint John, N.B. E2L 1B3) or the ALS Society. Online condolences at www.fundyfuneralhome.com.