Bishop, Mary Jean

Amherst, NS

July 12, 1931 - September 29, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Jean Bishop, a beloved daughter, mother, aunt, great aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and dear friend, after 94 remarkable years, on September 29, 2025 at Sunnyside Longterm care facility.

Daughter of Charles (predeceased April 24, 1988), and Jemima (Mina - predeceased June 3, 1970),

Mary is survived by brother Charles Jr. (Marguerite), living a life full of adventure, joy, and countless cherished connections with more friends than we could ever name.

Born in Amherst, Nova Scotia, on July 12, 1931, Mom carried the love of the East Coast in her heart, though the bright lights of Toronto soon called her name. From there, her journey unfolded with travel, fashion, entrepreneurial spirit (as the proud owner of Our Little Shop in Saint George), and endless exploration. Never one to settle for long, her adventurous soul made a home in many communities and cities throughout her life.

An avid skater, she was often compared to the great Barbara Ann Scott—and never let us forget it as the years went on. Her passion for skiing also led her to become an instructor on the slopes of Chicopee, where she shared her love of the sport with others and forged even more lasting connections—always ready for the next trip, ski poles in tow.

Above all, Mom’s greatest joy was found in her family. She treasured every moment with her children, grandchildren, and lived to hear the exciting news that she recently became a Great Grandma. Mom filled our lives with laughter, wisdom, and unconditional love—leaving behind memories that will continue to brighten our hearts for the rest of our lives.

A woman of deep faith, Mom believed in the power of Jesus and looked forward to finding peace with the Lord. This faith gave her strength, comfort, and hope throughout her life, and now we take comfort knowing she is at rest in his arms.

Over the years, we were blessed to witness her strength, independence, and unwavering spirit. We will forever carry these gifts with us. You will be dearly missed, Grams, but your light shines on in all of us.

We promise to continue carrying the torch, striving each day to “change the world”—just as you inspired us to do. (Queue Johnny Reid).

With all our eternal love:

Daughter Joy (forever in spirit and in our hearts), Granddaughter Ferris (Dave) and great-granddaughters Charlotte and Lucy, Son Glen (Martine) and grand-fur-baby Saydah, Son Steve (Leighe), granddaughter Amberleighe (Jarad) and great-grandson Callum, granddaughter Brooklynn (John-Wesley) and great-grandson Theodore, grandson Coleton (Sierra), Daughter Lynne (Robert) and granddaughter Abbey.

Special thanks to the loving staff at Sunnyside Longterm Care facility - the journey would not have been as comforting without all of the amazing teams, especially Christine (extremely gifted nurse practitioner), who was so attentive to Mary's every need, and Pearletta from Buttonworks, who was at Mary's and our side supporting her comfort and care needs until the last moment. We promise to honor your request - love one another and look after each other's needs every day. You are an angel Pearletta, a true angel.

Cremation has taken place. A service will be held at a later date in Mary's hometown of Amherst, Nova Scotia.

As expressions of sympathy, donations to Sunnyside Foundation or the Canadian Alzheimer Society would be greatly appreciated by the family.

Next Spring, when the buds on your plants are popping and your hydrangeas and roses are showing signs of a new beginning, pause and think of Mary; she was a true lover of all that was flowers.