It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jacqueline (Jackie) Stroud on Thursday January 26th, 2023 at her home in Rockwood, Ontario. Jackie was in her 74th year. She was predeceased by her parents Harold and Mamie Stroud of Malton, Ontario and her sisters, Rita, Pat (Gilles), Wendy (Gord).
“Best Friend Ever!” - Jackie will be greatly missed by her closest friends and extended family - Diane Lea of Rockwood, (Annie, Oliver and Lily), John (Jack) Lea of Rockwood, Janet Phillips (Loki) of Puslinch and Valerie DeJager of Toronto/Rockwood. Jackie will be fondly remembered by her niece Jill Thomlison, (Scott, Summer and Jarrett) of Peru, Indiana, USA. Jackie’s life touched many people and she will be sorely missed by everybody who knew her.
Jackie was born in East Dulwich, London England in 1949 and came to Canada with her parents and her three sisters. Jackie was the youngest in her family. They settled in Malton, Ontario.
Jackie attended the University of Toronto - Faculty of Pharmacy and graduated in 1972. She was a true professional and extremely proud of her chosen career. Her successful pharmaceutical journey included Tamblyn Drugs, Boots Drug Store, Pharma Plus and Shoppers Drug Mart. Jackie managed the Pharma Plus drug store in what is now known as the Sleeman Centre in Guelph for many years, before entering the world of Head Office both at Pharma Plus and Shoppers Drug Mart, and culminating her career as Manager of Systems Services with Medical Pharmacies in Pickering. Her career spanned over 43 years and during that time she served on many committees, handled numerous government pharmaceutical projects and led a very successful team of people. She strongly advocated for her profession and helped pave the way for many of the automated pharmacy systems we know today.
In her spare time, Jackie’s love for horses led to exciting times, horse shows, hunts and two broken arms (at different times) courtesy of her thoroughbred gelding “Spring Victor” but nothing deterred her from getting back in the saddle. She purchased a 2-year-old quarter horse stallion “Playin Lazy” (Chip), who became her pride and joy. He was successfully shown by professional trainers both in Canada and the USA, before it was time for Jackie to try her hand at breeding him! This of course led to purchasing a farm to make the journey more exciting. “Canbrit Farms” in Rockwood, co-owned by Jackie and her good friend Diane, became the home of ‘Playin Lazy’ and Jackie’s dream of breeding became a reality.
Gull Rock Park, Lake Rosseau also held a special place in Jackie’s heart. Many a good time was had sitting around the camp fire with friends shooting the breeze and solving the problems of the world. A good way to relax and enjoy life on a beautiful lake. With the help of her good friend Sandy Duncan, Jackie perfected the art of the “Gull Rock Roll” which, to all who knew of it, was a true feat of achievement. Of course, to enjoy the lake Jackie decided to buy a boat. The little rubber dingeys didn’t quite cut it, so off to one of the local marina’s, she bought herself a Sea Ray bowrider which she aptly named “Equus” so she could tour the lakes in style.
Despite all her sidelines and adventures along the way, Jackie remained true to her profession. She worked hard, she worked long hours, always seen with her laptop open debating spread sheets and data. She was, and to quote from one of her former work colleagues “A strong, impactful, driven, passionate, caring leader, mentor, advocate and friend.”
Reflections
Jackie, we rejoice in the life you lived and are grateful for having known you.
We cared so much, shared so much, and had so many memorable times.
How much sadder it would have been if we had never known you at all.
Even though you are gone, you will always be a part of us.
For you have left us so rich with a precious legacy of memories
Rest in Peace our friend,
Know how much you were loved
We will miss you.
Until we meet again!
Cremation will take place with a Celebration of Life to be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to a charity of your choice or “Give your cat, dog or horse a special treat and tell them its from Jackie! " (One of Jackie’s favorite sayings)
Many thanks to all the First Responders – The Rockwood Fire Department, The Paramedics and Police Officers {PC Manny Liddar (#14625) and PC Roland Longman (#12111)} and the staff of Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home and Chapel Ltd, for all their help and support.
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