November 1, 2020
Jeannette Riches (Camp), resident of Red Deer, Alberta, passed away on November 1st, 2020, at the age of 76 years. She died peacefully in her home and was surrounded by loved ones, the way that she wanted it.
She was born and raised in Bentley, Alberta, lived in both Calgary & Olds as young girl, and later moved to Red Deer, where she lived for the past 28 years.
She was highly passionate about her 28-year long career with Catholic Social Services as a Special Needs Facilitator and built countless lifelong relationships and friendships with her clients. Even after Jeannette retired, she continued to spend time with her clients in the same way.
A Philanthropist to her core, Jeannette gave back in several ways including, volunteering, fundraising, and offering general support to many different charities such as Family Services, CentreFest, Meals on Wheels, Festival of Trees, and Before and After School Care Programs.
She was a highly active member in her communities and will be fondly remembered for organizing the next event or potluck for her Red Hats or Crown Jewels groups.
Jeannette was undoubtedly the Matriarch of her family, and placed high value on fostering, facilitating, and building strong family relationships and connections - making sure that no member was ever left behind or forgotten about.
She had an authentic and courageous spirit, a heart with unmatched kindness and grace, a gentle and charming disposition, a contagious laugh, a wonderful sense of humor, and was altruistic to her core.
She will be lovingly remembered by her husband Bill Riches, son Doug (Sue) Riches, son Dan (Corinne) Riches, Sister Shirley Kenyon, Brother Jim Camp, by her 5 Grandchildren Devin Riches, Miranda Riches, Tessa Riches, Cailynn Riches, Dallen Riches, and many, many more.
She was predeceased by her son Donnie Riches, and her parents Emily Laurens and Paul Camp.
A note from Jeannette on the day that she died:
"To all my friends and family: Knowing and loving each of you has been a blessing to me. I cherish the memories and moments. I will carry them with me where I'm going. I will be wearing my red hat with my Crown Jewels. My teddy bears will be with me as well. Love Jeannette"
A sincere and heartfelt thank you from the family to the Nurses (or Angel's as Jeannette called them) on unit 32 in the Red Deer Hospital Palliative Care, and everyone else who supported Jeannette, Bill, and their family during this time. Every single phone call and message was appreciated.
Jeannette did not want a funeral, please honour her memory by giving back to your communities.