It is with great sadness that the family of Marie Thérèse Jeannine Butler (née Garceau) announce her peaceful passing on Wednesday, December 20th, 2023, at the age of 89 at the Foyer Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes, in Bathurst, New Brunswick.
Thérèse, the daughter of Hector and Marguerite Garceau (Samson), was born January 19, 1934, in St-Elie de Caxton, Québec. She later moved and lived with her family in Grand Mère, Québec, where she met David Butler, the love of her life, married and started her family.
In 1966, the family moved to Belledune, New Brunswick. Speaking only French, she taught herself to read, write and speak English. She quickly became an avid reader and was instrumental in creating, organizing and helping to maintain a library in the local community centre. She also learned to play bridge, beginning a life long love affair with the game. She continued playing bridge after moving to Bathurst, N.B., hosting and attending bridge parties with new friends on Wednesday afternoons and many evenings. Honing her skills over the years, she achieved Gold Life Master status and won a multitude of local and provincial tournaments. To the delight of her opponents, people she would sometimes whisper a colourful French word or more when a card was misplayed.
A loving wife and Mother, Thérèse was shy, but always quick to smile and to offer help whenever and wherever it was needed. She was always willing to learn new things - needlework, knitting, crocheting, watercolor painting and continued to perfect her skills to excel in hosting, cooking elaborate meals and gardening.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband David (1988), brothers Jacques and Fernand, sisters Lucrèce, Marie, Estelle, Fleurette and Claire. She is survived by her youngest brother André, daughter Nancy (Eric), son John (Lisa), granddaughter Jennifer (Simon), grandson Jordan, and great granddaughter Elorie.
She will forever be in the hearts and thoughts of all who knew and loved her and will be sorely missed.
As per her wishes there will be no visitation or funeral service. Donations in memory of Thérèse may be made to a charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements are in the care of Elhatton's Funeral Home, Bathurst (www.elhatton.com).
