Quyon: Jill Young

Our community has had a very rough week. Already under the cloud of this worldwide pandemic, many in our villages are now grieving the loss of loved ones as well. It is so difficult to deal with at a time when we cannot be together, when we cannot share hugs and condolences in person. It goes against everything we would usually do at a time like this and it is not easy.
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Gilly Braden, who passed away on April 23. I hadn’t seen Gilly in years, but he was a sweet soul, and many of us have wonderful memories of him. He will certainly be missed.
I was shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Wendy Desabrais on April 24. Wendy was so well loved in our community and this loss is deeply felt. She had a beautiful voice, and also many talents when it came to crafting, cooking, and baking. She had encouraged me as I learned to crochet and she often sent me patterns to try out. So many of us will miss her dearly. All of our love is going out to Wendy’s family at this difficult time.
We also learned the news that Henri Coté passed away over the weekend. As a neighbour growing up, I have great memories of Henri. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Coté family as they grieve this loss.
Thankfully, there was some good news to help ease the sadness. Kelsey Stanley and Dave Thomson have welcomed a baby boy to their family. Pryor Joseph Dale was born on April 25, and he is a little brother for Paisley and Presley. Wishing the whole family all the best with their little bundle of blue.
Birthday wishes are going out to Jennifer McBane-Barr on April 29, and to her son Ryan Barr on May 1. Happy birthday also to Debbie Johnston on May 3, and to Caryl McCann-Cote on the 4. Best wishes to everyone celebrating this week.
While it has been a difficult week for many of us, I hope everyone is doing well and hanging in there. I am focusing on the light at the end of the tunnel and hoping for better days ahead very soon for all of us. This too shall pass.