Jacquelene Slater

She sparkled. There is no other word that so perfectly captures Jacquelene (nee Shaw) Russell Slater — a woman of dazzling spirit, radiant warmth, and a heart as vast and generous as her zest for life. Born on June 3, 1929, in Regina, Saskatchewan, Jacquelene graced this world for 96 magnificent years, and the light she cast will never dim.

Love, as it often does, found her in an unlikely place — a flower shop, where a young Jacquelene Russell crossed paths with Donald Andrew Slater. Their partnership would bloom into over 72 years of marriage. Flowers would remain a significant through-line of their lives, and eventually Jacque’s lifelong dream was fulfilled in becoming part owner of her own flower shop, “The Nosegay.” Don knew her spirit well enough to name his first houseboat The Jolly Jacquelene. She was, in every sense of the word, jolly: a bit of a wild card, always the life of the party, possessed of a wicked sense of humour and an energy that could light up any room — and at times, set it on fire.

To know Jacquelene was to know glamour. She moved through the world adorned in sparkling gems, big bold jewellery, and a magnificent collection of hats. She loved movies, show tunes, singing, dancing, and the full, glorious spectacle of life.

Her spirit of adventure was boundless. She and Don travelled the world, and their home reflected these journeys — filled with exotic art, an abundant array of elephant statues, and wonderful curiosities from faraway places.

Her grandchildren knew a grandmother unlike any other — one who might pile them into her white Chevy Cavalier convertible with the top down, music blasting, candy in hand, and the open road ahead. She had a special fondness for Cadillacs and a taste for extravagance in all its forms. She made every family dinner feel like a banquet fit for royalty. She loved to play hostess and threw fabulous gatherings for neighbours and friends. She adored her little dogs, eight beloved companions over her lifetime. In her later years she would say with a wistful smile: “This is the only time I’ve lived without having a little dog.”

Jacquelene’s heart extended far beyond her own home. As a dedicated volunteer, she helped Grade 2 students learn to read, painted ceramics with the blind, and gave her time generously at the Seniors’ Club. She was a proud member of The Elks Royal Purple Club and the Red Hat Society, and a lifelong member of Weight Watchers. Wherever she went, she brought bright colour, lively stories, and conversation that made you feel like the only person in the room.

She was an artist at heart — always dressed fashionably, with sparkling nails and impeccable hair and make-up. Whether knitting, working on needlepoint, painting ceramics, arranging flowers, decorating her home, or simply setting the table, she gave generously of her heart, her time, her energy, and her resources — always, always giving.

From singing by the fireside, during a houseboat adventure, to Christmas carols around the table, to directing the grandchildren in living room performances, those lucky enough to have known her were touched by something rare and irreplaceable.

Jacquelene is lovingly remembered by her beloved children; LauraLee (David Smith) and Douglas (Laurel Sturdy), four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren — each one a reflection of the joy and love she poured so freely into her family. She was preceded in death by her cherished husband of over 72 years, Donald Andrew Slater, and her sister, Shirley Irene (Russell) Parsons.

The family would like to thank Lorena Lumio for the wonderful care she gave to “Grandma” for the past 6 years. We are eternally grateful.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation in memory of Jacquelene may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

She was a magnificent soul — and she will forever shine.