Judith Anne Poole

It is with the heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of our beloved Judith Anne Poole. Pre-deceased by her Father Charles, Mother Elsie and Brother Richard. Survived by Husband Bernie, Children Chris (daughter in law Bonnie), Jennifer (son in law Louay) and Shannon (son in law John), Grandchildren Liam, Megan, Teagan, Madeleine and Deklan and Siblings Howard, Jackie, Gemma, Jacinta, Bernadette and Timmy.

Born in Summerside P.E. I. to Charles and Elsie Connolly, Anne was the oldest of eight children. A “mother hen” of sorts to her many siblings and cousins, Anne enjoyed a family filled childhood. Ice skating in town was a favourite activity, however her fondest memories were of the Connolly family farm, where her love of animals flourished.

In 1963 Anne married her one and only Bernie. The life of a military wife ensued and with it, all the adventures of children and military moves. Postings took them across the country from Winnipeg, to B.C., to Nova Scotia and back to B.C. again, then on to Germany where they enjoyed their final posting. Four years of epic European adventures unfolded before finally returning to Comox, B.C. Anne also enjoyed a career with Scotia Bank for 20 years most of which were spent in Courtenay and Comox. Her work at the bank meant getting to know a myriad of community members which was a highlight of her beloved Valley life. After retiring, Anne headed up the First Open Heart Society in the Comox Valley, organizing the annual “ Walk for Hearts” raising countless dollars for the Comox Valley Health Care Foundation. She was also a fierce advocate for educating others on women’s heart health issues. Friendships spanned her lifetime and remained steadfast despite multiple moves and Comox life included a close circle of lifelong friends.

Annie was petite in stature but anyone who knew her was privy to her quick wit and ability to speak her mind should the situation call for it. She loved the ocean and mountain views, walks at the marina and watching the deer feed on her flowers when they wandered into her backyard. Annie was a friend to any animal that crossed her path so of course the “universal cat distribution system” found her many times throughout the years. She adored her cats and spoiled them accordingly.

Above all else, family was everything to Anne. Christmases, Easters, Thanksgivings and all the summertime BBQs created memories we will cherish forever. She loved Bernie, her devoted, loving husband. She adored her brothers and sisters, however, the lights of her life were her children and grandchildren. “If children are the rainbow of life, grandchildren are the pot of gold.” Thank you Mom for making your grandchildren’s lives so magical.

A celebration of life will be held Friday, October 11th 1:00 pm at Piercy’s Funeral Home, Courtenay, B.C. Reception to follow.

The family would also like to extend a special heartfelt thank you to the ICU team at North Island Hospital for their extraordinary care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SPCA or the Comox Valley Health Care Foundation.