Jeannie (Jean) Rosemary House (nee Hunter)
April 4, 1943 to December 24, 2024
Obituary
Jeannie House (née Jean Rosemary Hunter) was a ray of sunshine for everyone who knew her. Born in Wales in 1943, she grew up in Birkenhead, England. Daughter of Charles Hunter and Marjorie (née Cross), she was the eldest child, with twin sisters Jilli and Sue and brother David.
When she was 10, Jeannie went to boarding school at Howell’s School, in Denbigh, Wales, where she excelled and made lifelong friends, and afterwards earned a B.A. in English at Reading University. She was far from a bookworm though, singing in a jazz group and seeing the Beatles at the Cavern Club with her sisters and friends. In 1965 she went to work at Oxford University, where she met her husband-to-be Doug House, a student from St. John’s. They were married in 1967 and spent three years in Montréal, where Jeannie began a Phd in English, and four years in Calgary, where their daughter, Vanessa, was born in 1972, and their son, Matthew, in 1974. In 1975 the young family moved to St. John’s, and in 1978 their son Adrian was born. Jeannie adored being a mother and devoted herself to that career for her children’s early childhood.
In her spare time Jeannie became involved in volunteer work. Among other roles she was the Chair of Planned Parenthood at a crucial and controversial time, helping to establish the first abortion clinic in the province. For years she was involved in the Kids Eat Smart Foundation, which she chaired from 2002 to 2007. She also served on the Board of the NL Historic Sites Association.
After her children had grown up, Jeannie took the bold and brave step at age 49 of going to Law School at Dalhousie University, graduating in 1995 with both a law degree and new lifelong friends. She worked on the province’s new adoption act, and then as the legal director of the province’s Health Boards Association for the rest of her career. She also spent nine years on the Health Canada Research Ethics Board, and a term as the Chair of the NL Health Research Ethics Authority.
Jeannie was a wonderful and loving wife and mother. She enjoyed traveling, and the family went on many holidays together, especially in Europe. In their retirement Jeannie and Doug went to Peru, the Galapagos, and Australia together, and also travelled with their children and grandchildren to several sun destinations (Jeannie’s favourite!). She was a big walker and spent countless hours on the Rennies’ River trail behind her house, and was a passionate gardener and lover of flowers. Jeannie also enjoyed spending time with friends, and formed a book club (called Book Bags!) with several friends, as well as another social group called the Fox Hats. For many years, a group of friends would have a theme party every New Year’s Eve (a great photo exists of them all decked out in togas).
Jeannie had five grandchildren: Vanessa and Cory Milley’s three daughters Charlotte, Sophie and Lola, and Matthew and Daphne Dumbrille’s daughters Sadie and Maeve. Jeannie, with Doug, delighted in visiting with them regularly.
In 2017, shortly after a lovely 50th wedding anniversary celebration, Jeannie was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma and then aphasia/dementia. After a few years of care at home, she moved to Pleasant View Towers where she received wonderful care, and was well-loved by the staff for her smile and her positive attitude. We extend our thanks and appreciation to them, as well to TLC Home Care, especially worker Effie Hobbs, and to Drs. Joanne Hickey and Alicia Mehta for their professional and caring treatment.
We would like to thank all the family and friends who have helped and supported us through this difficult time. In particular, we express our gratitude to Doug’s sister, Jan Squires, and her husband, Jordy; next door neighbours and friends, Judi and Verne Somers; and friend Catherine Dempsey.
Jeannie will be missed by all. In the words of her granddaughters, “Granny was selfless and supportive, generous, thoughtful, compassionate, and wise”.
Visitation will take place at Carnell’s Funeral Home on Monday, December 30th, from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm. Donations in Jeannie’s honour to Kids Eat Smart Foundation or a charity of one’s choice are welcome. The family intends to organize a celebration of life with the date and other details to be announced at a later time.
Schedule
Visitations
4pm - 8pm on December 30, 2024
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
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Adrian,
My most sincere condolences. You have been an amazing, loving son to your mom in these challenging years. May you find peace in the beautiful memories you made & trust that her strength is reflected in you.
Doug, so sorry to hear of Jeannie’s passing. She was such a wonderful human being.. I cannot imagine the grief you and your family are experiencing. My thoughts are with you .
Vanessa and family,
So sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing…My deepest condolences !Thoughts and prayers are with you!
Doug and family Sorry to learn of Jesnnies passing Sincere condolences to all Joan (Spurrell) Moulton
Dear Doug and family ,
I was so sorry to hear of Jeannie’s passing .
Anyone who knew Jeannie quickly learned what a devoted mother she was and the delight she took in her children . She was also highly principled and hard working . I met Jeannie years ago but only really got to know her when she became Chair of Kids Eat Smart . She gave leadership and a steady hand through a time of growth and transition for the organization . Her volunteer contribution helped build Kids Eat Smart into the strong provincial organization it is today .
Derek had great admiration for her as a lawyer and the fine work she did drafting policy and legislation.
We are both saddened by her passing and extend our sincere sympathies for your loss .
Susan and Derek Green
Very sad to hear of Jeannie’s passing. I was privileged to have spent many years on committees with Jeannie as we put forward legislation for the Health Research Ethics Authority. Jeannie was our guide. Funny, thoughtful and kind, a wonderful person to have worked with and known. My thoughts go out to all of the family in this time of grief.
Dear Doug and family, our deepest condolences on your loss – Jeannie was a delight to know, the obituary described her perfectly.
Doug and Family. My sincere condolence on the passing of passionate Jeannie. I remember so so many times speaking with her throughout the years at receptions or around the tennis courts. She was such a genuine, intelligent and talented woman. She was a Newfoundland & Labrador Gem. May the many memories you have all shared throughout Jeannie’s life bring you all Comfort & Peace. Bless you all.
I’m very sad to hear of Jeannie’s passing. She was one of the most amazing ladies I’ve ever had the pleasure to meet. I loved our chats and soaked in all the great advice she shared with me in the time I spent with her. She left a lasting impression on me that I will cherish forever
Much love to you all
Lesley
My deepest condolences to Vanessa, my dear friend and travelling companion, and to the entire House family. You have such a special family. I was only fortunate enough to spend time with Jeannie a few times, but I was in awe of her zest for life and interest in lifelong learning. Her decision to return to school at 49 was inspirational for me and I often shared with other friends and colleagues that it is never too late to change direction or learn something new.
Doug and family,
I was saddened to read of Jeannie’s passing….so many wonderful memories of bridge games in your apt on Queens Rd and summer visits to Trinity……..loved chatting with her at Belbins…always so upbeat and interested in the family.
I know she will be missed by friends and family…..I send you all my deepest sympathy at this sad time.
Doug and Family,
We extend our prayers and warm thoughts to you as you mourn Jeannnie’s death after such a long period of illness. Remember the good times with gratitude.
Doug,
We were saddened to hear about the passing of that very special partner in your life. Please accept our sincerest condolences and may all your wonderful memories of Jeannie comfort you and your family..
Ira & Leigh Bridger
I often met Jeannie on the Rennies river trail while walking my dog Lucie. She was so sweet to Lucie. I enjoyed our chats. Such a pleasant lady. She will be missed. My condolences to Doug and family.
Doug, Vanessa, Matthew and Adrian,
We were sad to hear Jeannie had passed away. We have fond memories of her being the greatest cheerleader for Adrian, Mark and all the others who spent time with you in St. John’s. Cherish the many good times.
Les, Dee, Mark and Louise Hulett
Doug and Family
We were very sorry to hear of Jeannie’s passing.. Sincere condolences.
Doug
Sorry to hear of Jeannie!s death. What a great life well lived. I remember her constant smile and warmth – always happy to see a friend and engage in conversation.
She was a wonderful person. Condolences to you and the family. Bill Goodridge
Matt and family. So sorry to hear of your Mothers passing. May all the good memories of her be with you all. Deepest sympathy
Janet and Paul Aitken
Doug:
I am so sorry to read that Jeannie has passed away. She was a lovely person, always so full of enthusiasm and positivity whenever we met. Please accept my deepest condolences to you and your family.
Eileen MacNab
Doug and Family,
We are so saddened to learn of Jeannie’s passing.
She was always such a genuine, lovely person and we would often stop on the trail and in the neighbourhood to have a chat. Even when she wasn’t well in those last few years, she fought her illness with courage and positivity. We will surely miss her too. God Bless her sweet soul.
Kathryn and Doug Mason
Doug and Family….deepest condolences on the passing of your loved one….I hope that fond memories will prevail during this difficult time….
Gary Cake
Very Sorry Doug To Hear Of Your Wife’s Passing..
Arthur Summers
Doug,
Sending heartfelt condolences to you and your family at this most difficult time. It was only at our last Deputy Ministers luncheon that you told me all about your Jeannie. My thoughts are with you and I know you will cherish your many memories with Jeannie.
Gig Dooling
Doug, Sharron and I are sorry to hear of Jeannie’s death. We offer you, and all your family, our condolences..
Sharron and Jim Winter
Doug and family
I was very saddened to hear of Jeannie’s passing. While I have not seen her in many years, I know how much she meant to you and the family. My deepest condolences to all of you.
Hazel Harris
Doug and family.
Our sincere condolences on the loss of your dear Jeannie. I first met Jeannie when I began working with Doug at the Economic Recovery Commission . My first and lasting impression of her was that she was a beautiful, gentle and kind person and a lady through and through. I feel very fortunate to have met her.
Doug, while we are not able to attend the visitation on Monday, please know that our hearts and our thoughts are with you and your family at this very difficult time.
Dorothy and Don French
Doug, Adrian and all the House family, Merv and I are sorry to hear of Jeanie’s death. Jeanie was always a ray of positivity, energy and enthusiasm. We are sure many happy memories will help with her earthly absence. Judith & Merv McIntyre
Vanessa and family,
So sorry to hear about the loss of your dear mother.. Thinking of all of you.
Heidi and family
Doug, Vanessa and the House family,
We are very sorry to hear about Jeannie’s passing. It was always such a pleasure to see her and have a chat at a social event, on a trail, or a concert. We always enjoyed catching up at the Milley’s or the House’s when granddaughters came home to NL for a visit and we would stop by. Our condolences.
Anna and Gerry Tapper
I went to law school with Jeannie, graduating with her in 1995. I remember her telling me about not just seeing the Beatles but actually hanging out with them backstage at the Cavern Club and how funny and welcoming they were to everyone. I remember her telling stories of taking her kids travelling to far flung places, saying how “portable” small children were and how happy she was to have travelled with them. When she was at Dal her family was very much “with” her. She made many, many friends at Dal. She was a great lady. May she rest in peace and my deepest condolences to the family. Aloysius Hayes.
Doug and family deepest condolences.. she was a very lovely person. RIP 🙏
Condolences to the family. I worked with Jeannie when she was with Social Services / HRLE, and remember the fun times we had at parties and constructing elaborate office Christmas displays. I especially fondly remember the stories regaling her encounters with the Beatles when she was growing up ‘cross the Mersey.
Doug and family. Jan, George and family. Sincere condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Doug and family. Sorry to hear of Jeannie’s passing. My thoughts are with you and your family at this sad time.
Cyril Spurrell
Calgary
Doug and family. Bill and I are saddened to hear of Jeannie’s passing but spent time reminiscing about her and the fun we always had when we were with her. Bill fondly talked of the cooking course he took with her and Adele. May you all be comforted by your many precious memories. xxx Shirley P and Bill
Our condolences to the whole family. Jeannie was a bright light in all her realms.
Louise Moyes and Mark Shrimpton