Obituary of Jessie Whyte

Whyte, Jessie Martha (nee Laventure) With sadness, we announce the passing of Jessie Whyte at the Elisabeth Bruyere Health Centre, Ottawa on Monday, November 14th, 2011. Daughter of the late John James Laventure and the late Christena Elizabeth Clark. Predeceased by her husband Dr. J. Clinton Whyte, her brothers and their wives, Clark Laventure (Mildred Stewart) and Harold Laventure (Jean Badham), as well as great niece Alexandra Wicks. Family was an important part of Jessie's life and she is lovingly remembered by nephews and nieces: Reginald Laventure (Nancy Iredale, deceased), Suzanne McBurney (Terence), Donna Good (Richard), Douglas Laventure, Nancy Wicks (Thomas), David Laventure (Bonnie Carr), Fay Bucholtz and Robin Laventure. Cherished by numerous great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews. She will also be missed by her caring "young" friends, many of whom she met during her volunteer activities. Jessie first began her working career at Taber Business College in Smith Falls. She moved to Ottawa during World War II, working in Munitions and Supply, Naval Section, and then in Industrial Security. After the war, she transferred to Central Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). A year later, she was seconded to the Community Planning Association and worked there for 12 years, becoming Assistant Director, Editor and Conference Officer. She then returned to CMHC, where she was appointed Recruitment and Employment Officer. She later became Training Officer at CMHC and then was promoted to Director of Training. She eventually moved to the CMHC Ministerial Secretariat as Assistant Director, Ministerial Briefings. Volunteer Service was also an important part of Jessie's life, serving for many years in leadership roles with the Professional and Business Women and on the Board of the Glebe Centre; becoming the first female President. Jessie was made an Honorary Member of the Glebe Board and received the Edwin Gardner Award for contributions to the community. She also served on the Council on Aging and the Ottawa-Carleton District Health Council and served on numerous committees. Jessie married Dr. J. Clinton Whyte in October, 1969 and they shared their work, and their love of and commitment to family, the arts, volunteer work and travel until his death in December, 1980. Family and friends are invited to the Sand Point Public Cemetery, Rhody's Bay for a graveside service to take place on Saturday morning, November 19th at 10:30. A luncheon will follow in the Pilon Family Funeral Home Reception Centre, 50 John Street North, Arnprior. (613-623-5194) In memory of Jessie, a donation to the Salvation Army; the Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind or The Ottawa Mission would be appreciated.