Jacqueline “Jackie” Margaret Hallett passed away peacefully in her home on June 3, 2024, in Edmonton, Alberta, at the age of 79. Jackie was born in England to Jack & Winifred Blake, and immigrated to Canada settling with her parents in the Hamlet of Pine Grove (Vaughan), Ontario. She attended Pine Grove Public School from 1956 – 1960, and then attended Woodbridge High School.
In 1964, Jackie married Michael Ryde. They lived in the Scarborough area and then moved and settled in Keswick, Ontario, with their two sons Derek and Jason. After a separation in 1991, Jackie re-connected with an old friend, Roger Hallett, moved to Edmonton, Alberta in 1993, and her and Roger were married in 1994. She lost her beloved Roger in 2011 to cancer.
Her first job was as a switchboard operator at Eaton’s Warehouse in Toronto, Ontario. She worked as a teller at Toronto Dominion Bank in Keswick, Ontario, as well as in a wool shop, which she then owned called Threads and Things. Finally, Jackie worked as an administrative assistant, receptionist, and in branch operations with RBC Dominion Securities in Edmonton, Alberta, until she resigned shortly before her passing.
Jackie was an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching hockey, baseball and CFL football. She thoroughly enjoyed knitting and crocheting in her spare time and visiting the casino from time to time, where she was usually pretty lucky. She had a huge heart and a strong personality. Her
smile and laugh were infectious. She cherished all her friendships, whether it be short and sweet or a lifetime.
Jackie is predeceased by her beloved husband Roger, parents Jack & Winifred Blake, her ex-husband Michael Ryde, and daughter-in-law Stephanie Pollack (Ryde).
She is survived by her son Derek (Melanie), her son Jason, grandson Blake (Kori), as well as her brother and sister-in-law Rodney & Nancy Ryde, nephew Stephen, nieces Lynda and Lesley. Her sisters-in-law Libby (Dave) Hallett, Lisa (Mike) Hallett, and numerous other Hallett relatives and family members.
The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to a very special lady, Shirley Pywell, who was not only a dear friend to Jackie, but who cared for her in her last weeks, days and hours. Not all angels have wings, Shirley was that angel.
In keeping with Jackie’s wishes, there will be no service. In remembrance, donations can be made in Jackie’s name to the Canadian Cancer Society.
January says
I think of you almost every day here at work, Jackie.
Thank you for your friendship. I cherish you and our time together.
Love,
January
Fiona says
To Jackie’s family:
I was saddened to hear of Jackie’s passing. She was a lovely, warm individual with always a smile to share. I enjoyed seeing her in the lunch room and we’d always just chat away, about her family, cruising, hockey. I mentioned one day we needed real salt and pepper shakers, and then they appeared. Our office is a quieter place with out her cheery good morning and hellos. She is missed.
Sincerely Fiona
Barbara Rainey says
Jackie my long time friend over 43years. I will miss seeing you, every year you came back for a visit to Ontario. We were always taken for sister’s. My heart broke when you left us to go to Roger. I’m happy I got to see you before you passed. Will always love and miss you. 💔❤️