July 30, 1934 – August 8, 2024   

Jean Marie Anderson (nee Simpson) was born July 30, 1934, in Wheeling, West Virginia to John and Cecyl Simpson. She lived her early years in many locations (Yukon, Australia and New Guinea) before returning to the US to attend the Colorado School of Nursing where she met her first husband, John Anderson. Jean and John lived in numerous mining towns until they arrived in Merritt in 1959. Jean spent a lifetime nursing in the Nicola Valley, OR, ER and Maternity at Nicola Valley General Hospital followed by time spent in Public Health and Indian Health. Jean continued to nurse for some time in Calcutta, India (1982-86). She completed a Master’s degree in Family Therapy and taught at NVIT in the Social Work program. 

Jean lived in the Nicola Valley for 65 years and was a friend to many generations over those years. She lived a colourful lifestyle and had a great curiosity for new learning. 

Jean loved all critters great and small and spent several years building a small ranching operation in Kingsvale with significant help from her neighbours. This love of the land and animals inspired that same passion in her children. She is survived by her children: Kathleen Anderson, John Anderson (Kate), Kevin Anderson, Meg O’Donovan, Mary Anderson (Richard) and Jenny Ohata (Mike): her Grandchildren: John (Rayko) and Quinn; Miranda, Zach (Michelle), Braeden and Elliot (Frederique) ; Shaelysse (Jason) and Keisha; Ramon (Carol), Dakota and Sunshine; Robert; and Justin (Meganne): her Great Grandchildren delighted her as well; Nate, Joe, Haddie, Millie, Clem, Charlie, Shane, Lennon, Reina and Rui. 

Jean’s passions included travel, swimming, tennis, dog agility, gardening and visiting with friends and family. Jean loved all people and never missed an opportunity for catching up over a leisurely lunch. She had a sincere interest in people’s’ lives. 

The Anderson children would like to thank the Nicola Valley community for their outpouring of love and support. As the saying goes “it takes a village” and we are grateful to be part of the village! 

There will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday, September 22 at the Shulus Community Hall, at 1:30 – all friends of Jean’s are welcome! 

In lieu of flowers please forward any memorial contributions to the charity of your choice. 

You may offer a message of condolence at Merritt Funeral Chapel for the Anderson family. 

• Date : 2024-08-08
• Location : Merritt