It is with heavy hearts that the family of the late Bessie Gillard announces her peaceful passing on Monday, July 7th, 2025, at Dr. Charles L. LeGrow Health Center at the age of 79. Born in Rose Blanche, Bessie was the daughter of the late Garfield and Mary-Ann Keeping.

Bessie leaves to mourn with fond and loving memories, her children, Peggy (Ken) Lawrence, Amanda (Darren) Bragg, Terrance (Melissa) Gillard, grandchildren Ashton Gillard (Tiffany Hann), Dakotah Berubeé, Nix Gillard, Ava Bragg, and Lex Gillard.

She also leaves behind her sister, Shirley (Edward) Cokes, nephew Wallace (Janice) Gillard, brothers and sisters in law, Peggy Keeping, Etta-Mae (Eugene) Tiller, Leeander (Loretta) Gillard, Lloyd Gillard, and Annie-May Gillard, plus a large circle of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Bessie was predeceased by her husband, Ray Gillard, brothers and sister, Wilson (Abigail) Keeping, Ed (Mary) Keeping, Katherine (Charles) House, Lock (Isabelle) Keeping, Arthur Keeping, and Bill Keeping, brothers and sisters in law, Joan Gillard, Stenny (Shirley) Gillard, Robbie (Stephanie) Gillard, Marg (Frank) Sheppard, Mary (Joe) Hatcher, Dora (Norman) Randall, Georgina Gillard, Myrtle Gillard, and Frank Gillard

In keeping with Bessie’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Visitations will be held at Oceanside Funeral Home on Thursday, July 10th from 2:00-4:00 P.M. and 7:00-9:00 P.M. The funeral service will take place at Oceanside Funeral Home on Friday, July 11th at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. Annie Rose officiating. Flowers are graciously accepted, donations in memory of Bessie may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Oceanside Funeral Home, 23 Read Street, Port aux Basques. Words of comfort can be sent to the family by visiting www.oceansidefh.ca.