It is with Heavy Hearts that we announce the passing of our dear Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Aunt, Sister, Godmother and Friend. Mary “Josephine” Peck, began her journey to the spirit world on October 2nd, 2023 surrounded by loved ones, friends, family and prayers.
Josephine was born in Baddeck on March 18th, 1944, and was the youngest daughter to the late John Peter Googoo and Madeline (Gould) Googoo. Josephine was an amazing Mi’kmaw Educator, Social Worker, Band Manager, Student Liaison, Principal, Professor. Most importantly she was an astonishing Knowledge keeper, Prayer Leader and Basket maker. She was also a proud Store owner where she sold Crafts alongside her Husband and children. Josephine greatest role was being a proud Wife, Mother and Grandmother. Her grandchildren were the center of her world, she never missed an event or celebration.
Josephine’s greatest passion in life was being a Mi’kmaw Language Warrior. She was so passionate and dedicated for the revitalization of the Mi’kmaw Language. When starting her language journey she moved her family to Maria Quebec, to teach the Mi’kmaw language in 1980. She spent numerous years as an Educator teaching the Language and culture from Kindergarten to University courses. Josephine taught in all the Mi’kmaw communities in Unama’ki, Mabou, Margaree and several Universities.
Josephine’s Humble way of being and her ability to see the greatness in people helped to foster amazing Mi’kmaw educators for the next seven generations.
Josephine started her educational journey at the age of nine, knowing only her Mi’kmaw Language. She attended the Indian day School in Whycocomagh from Grade one to Grade eight. In 1958, Josephine attended St. Joseph High School In Mabou, Nova Scotia. She graduated with her Bachelor of Education by the age of 22 at STFX. Josephine wanted to further her education, she then went on to receive her Bachelor of Social Work from Dalhousie University. Josephine also received her Master In Curriculum Development from UCCB (CBU). Josephine’s last degree was completed side by side with her daughter Joanne, where they received their Master of Education in Literacy from Mount St Vincent.
Her smile, laughter, energy, intelligence, stories and her beauty radiated out of her in every interaction. Josephine leaves behind a tremendous legacy, Especially through her Oral Stories, Traditional teachings and prayers.
Josephine had a strong Catholic faith, her devotion was to Saint Anne attending the annual mission on Chapel Island In Potlotek. Where she would spend time and share stories with family and friends. This also led her to join the Wagmatcook Pilgrimage to Ste Anne De Beaupre annually. Josephine was devoted to the church in her house community of Wagmatcook where she would attend mass every Sunday. She gracefully accepted the greatness that comes with having a strong faith.
Josephine is survived by her daughter Neilene Peck, Son Jamie (Joanne) Peck of Wagmatcook. Son in Law, Rodney Alex of Eskasoni. Daughters by choice, Candace Peck and Cuddles (Josephine’s dog). Sons by Choice, Shawn Paul and Nathan Oldham. Grandchildren Libbie, Abby, Maria Alex of Eskasoni. Bison, Jaylene Julian, Dallas, Duncan, John, Isla Peck of Wagmatcook. Great Grandchild Bretton Peck of Alberta. Josephine is also survived by all her grandchildren who she lovingly took in as one of her own and held close to her heart. Josephine is also survived by her Best friends; Anna K Pierro, Molly Pierro and the Late Ma’kit Poulette and John Prosper.
Josephine is also survived by numerous Nieces and Nephews , Great(x4) Nieces and Nephews of Wagmatcook, We’koqma’q, Membertou, Eskasoni, Afton, Pictou and Prince Edward Island. Sister in laws; Rita Pierro, Nancy Bernard, Ethelyna Peck of Wagmatcook.
Josephine is also survived by ten godchildren; Connie, Karen, Simon, Calvin, Byron, Carol, Darren, Kimberly, Tash, Sarah and the Late Veronica Googoo.
Josephine was predeceased by her loving handsome husband Joseph(Joe) Peck. Child in infancy MJ Peck, Daughter Joanne Alex. Siblings; Susan Prosper, Caroline Hobbs (Marshall), Peter Googoo, Emily Googoo, Angus Googoo, Stephen Googoo. (Bee a’q)
Special Thank you to the; Habourstone Enhanced Care Nursing Home, Wagmatcook Health Centre, Wagmatcook Homecare and Wagmatcook Band Counci for lovingly caring for our Mother/ Grandmother.
“ Kesalulek Mom”
Visitation for Mrs. Peck will begin on October 9th at 6pm, at the Wagmatcook Elder Centre on 55 Fishery Road. Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, October 11th 2023, at 11am, at the Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha Church In Wagmatcook. With Father Angus MacDougall officiating. The Burial will be at the Parish Cemetery, Meal and Salite to follow at the Wagmatcook Cultural Heritage Center.
