Born in Temiscaming, Quebec to the late Julie and Cecil Barnett, passed away after a life marked by curiosity, music, and kindness. She was the beloved younger sister of Patricia and Gordon, and was predeceased by her husbands, Pierre St. Jean and Henri Leonard.
A graduate of St. Patrick’s College in Ottawa, Judy began her adult life marrying Pierre in Helsinki, Finland, followed by two years at Leningrad State University in the former U.S.S.R. She taught at Algonquin College and there she met Henri, a fellow teacher. She also worked in several Federal Government departments.
A gifted musician, Judy played piano, guitar, and flute, and sang with the gentle warmth of a folk singer. She shared her love of music freely, patiently helping both adults and children discover their own abilities.
Judy travelled widely throughout Europe and, in later years, enjoyed memorable trips to warmer climates with Henri.
She was also known for her extraordinary kindness to animals. A quiet guardian of her neighbourhood’s wildlife, she cared for feral cats, groundhogs, skunks, squirrels, chipmunks, and the many birds that visited her yard.
Judy made her home for many years on a peaceful street in Hintonburg, where she was deeply grateful for the warm and generous neighbours who supported her with kindness and friendship.
Judy lived an interesting and thoughtful life. She was a gentle spirit and will be remembered with love.
Digital Guestbook
Valoree McKay (the gardener)
Teri Loretto
I am heartbroken. Judy and I remained close after 10 years as neighbours and I just visited her and the wee cat in February. I wish I had been able to see you one more time, my dear m dear friend. We enjoyed our wine and snacks while talking for hours. Love to her family at this tough time. She was one in a million and I treasure the time I had with her and previously with Henri and all of our cats and plants. Miss you already. oxoxox
What a wonderful tribute for a beautiful soul. I will miss our regular chats over a glass, or two, of whisky and caring for her gardens so that she could enjoy the flowers and everything green, along with the critters that frequented it.