Obituary of Rowena Hapgood
It is with great sadness that the family of Rowena Hapgood announce her peaceful passing at the Dr. S. Beckley Health Centre in Grand Bank, NL at the age of 61.
Leaving to mourn with precious and loving memories her sons, Austin (Shania) and Eric of Grand Bank; her children’s father, Kevin Hillier; her mother, Emily Hapgood of Frenchmen’s Cove; sister, Valarie Russell (Mike) of Grand Bank; nephew, Cameron Russell; grandson, Oakley; close friend, Tina Saunders; plus a large circle of family and friends.
Predeceased by her father, Ernest.
Rowena was a model of love, compassion and generosity until her very last moments with us on earth. Her mission was one that made a great difference in the lives of many people.
She wasn't a celebrity or a well-known Ed political figure; her death wasn't mentioned in the newspapers or on the radio. However, her departure touched many. She left like she lived: gently, making sure she had said goodbye to all of her loved ones, and giving each one a little something. She was thinking of others until her very last moment. Rowena spent her whole life helping others. She was always there for those who were in need—whether they needed to take shelter in her home during a difficult time, or simply wanted an ear that would listen without judging, condemning, or prejudging. She was well-known and admired in her community. Here are some of the qualities that Rowena mastered:
1. Authenticity
2. Humility
3. Generosity
4. Respect of self and of others
5. Integrity.
She continually expressed love and charity.
Her mission was a great one: she taught others around her the importance of loving and of not being afraid of saying it.
Rowena spent her whole life helping others. She was always there for those who were in need—whether they needed to take shelter in her home during a difficult time, or simply wanted an ear that would listen without judging, condemning, or prejudging.
She was a reassuring presence for her boys, of that they were her world, as well as for her grandson, mom, sister, her friends, her work colleagues, and her whole family.
All of her relationships were transformed by one, single ingredient: love—the most essential ingredient for our time here on earth.
The best remedy for a difficult event that turns our lives upside down is to give love freely, and to receive the love that comes to us in return.
Because we get back what we give.
The death of my sister has really brought home to me that, when we leave this world, our material goods, roles, titles, and profits no longer matter. All that counts when we leave, when we have completed our mission, is that we loved fully, and were loved in return. I sincerely believe that, when we leave this life, our soul takes this love with it.
When you love fully, only then are you truly alive! You get back what you give!
We can die having been miserable with others, or we can die having made a difference and leaving beautiful memories in the minds of people.
Thinking of you automatically brings a smile to the lips of those who knew her because she loved life. She always had a smile.
Thank you, dear Rowena, for the great privilege I know you are still here among us. Thank you for reminding us that the present moment is precious, and that we should make the most of it by loving fully and generously.
Rowena had two children and one grandson who was her pride and joy. She was a proud Hockey Mom who loved camping and being outdoors. She also enjoyed playing Legos and putting together puzzles with her children. She was also a proud big sister and was known to take charge. Bella, her dog, was her life. She was her best buddy and loyal companion.
She loved Christmas and would keep her tree up all year round. She also had a passion for helping others and would help others decorate their tree and help spread the Christmas spirit. She also took great delight in entertaining for a crowd and hosting turkey dinners and baking. Rowena worked at the court house in Grand Bank for 19 years of age until she retired. She was a Justice of Peace and Commissioner of Oaths. She always wanted to be helpful and took great pride in doing that with her profession.
Resting at Serenity Funeral Home, Grand Bank Wednesday July 17th from 1pm-4pm and 7pm-9pm.
Funeral Mass to take place at St. Joan of Arc Church, Frenchmen’s Cove with Thursday July 18, 2024 11AM.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the family may to the family etransfers can be sent to val_russell_1@hotmail.com
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Serenity Funeral Home, Burn. We listen,We learn, We walk with you.
If tears could build a stairway,
and memories a lane.
I would walk right up to Heaven
and bring you back again.
In Loving Memory
Rowena Hapgood
1963 - 2024
