It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jo-Anne Henderson in Ottawa on December 6th, 2019 at the age of 65 years. After facing illness with immeasurable courage and grace, she passed peacefully at home in the presence of her family.
Jo was a loving wife to Mike Henderson and beloved mother to Kate Henderson (Ben Stephenson) and Beth Lapalme (Colin). She was adored by her four grandchildren (Isaiah and Rowan Stephenson, Emily and Annie Lapalme). Jo-Anne was predeceased by her parents Mel and Mary Fran Gaiser and is survived by her brother Jon Gaiser (Brenda) and sister Kelly Dow (Steve). She will be dearly missed by her mother and father-in-law, Florence and John Henderson, her brothers and sisters-in-law, many nieces, her nephew, cousins, and friends.
Jo had a gift for making everyone she met feel welcome and she was a natural at building connections with people. Those who knew Jo will remember her for her warm demeanour, humour, inclusivity, love of learning, ‘tell it like it is’ attitude and simply her kindness. Jo-Anne received endless love, caring and kindness throughout this journey. The family would especially like to extend their thanks to all of Jo-Anne’s incredible healthcare providers, especially Dr. Michelle McKinnon, Dr. Barbara Yeats, Ramona, and Amina.
Friends and family are invited to a visitation at St. Basil’s Catholic Parish, 940 Rex Ave, Ottawa, ON, on Wednesday, December 11th from 2-4pm and 7-9pm with a Prayer Service at 8pm. A Funeral Service will be held at St. Basil’s, on Thursday, December 12th at 11am.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Lung Cancer Canada.
Digital Guestbook
Pat Shewring
Noralee Peters
“God saw you getting tired
When a cure was not to be
So He closed his arms and whispered
“Come to me”
You didn’t deserve what
You went thru
So He gave you a rest
God’s garden must be beautiful
He only takes the best
And when we saw you sleeping
So peaceful and free from pain
We could not wish you back
To suffer that again”
Jo you were an amazing wife, mother and person. I always enjoyed seeing you and Mike when I visited Ottawa or when you would come visit us in London in University. My deepest sympathies with Mike, Kate, Beth and your beautiful families. Xo
Dan and Lynne Sims
Our sincere condolences to Mike and all the family.
Jean-Paul E Jolicoeur
My condolences and prayers accompany you all.
I will always remember Jo-Ann's great zest for life,
Her strong faith and sparkling love for all her family and friends.
With you in spirit.
PAX! Jp
Marguerite Lapalme and JP Blais
Dear Beth, Colin, Emily and Annie
and Henderson Family
All our condolences and deepest sympathy.
Much love
xoxo
Jennifer Blais
So sorry to hear of your mom’s passing, Beth. Sending my thoughts and prayers to you and your family in this difficult time.
Mary and Matthew Wiecha
Dear Beth and Colin, we are so very sorry for your loss. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. Take comfort knowing she is now at peace. Much love from both of us.
Kelly Beaton
Dear Beth and Colin, I am so very sorry for your loss. Words do not seem adequate and I sure wish I was closer to give you both a big hug. Praying for God to give you the strength you need in the days ahead. May your beautiful girls be a comfort to you as you grieve, and a reminder that your mom will live on through you and through them. Sending you lots of love. xoxo
Ashley Jones
My deepest sympathy to Mike and your family. Thinking of you all during this difficult time.
Adam Latincic and Family
We are very sorry to hear about your loss. May you find some peace in this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Mike and your family.
Beth, Colin and Family
I was very sad to hear about the passing of your mother. I know how important she was to you and your family. She was an amazing woman. She will be missed. Please accept my sincere condolences and let me know if you need anything.