Obituary of Valerie McGovern

It is with profound sadness that the family of Valerie McGovern announces her passing, which occurred at the Saint John Regional Hospital on November 30, 2019, following a brief and sudden illness. Val passed peacefully and gracefully, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Saint John on April 7, 1933, she was the daughter of the late William Cunningham and Beatrice (Ryan) Cunningham. She was predeceased by her husband of 54 years, Joseph McGovern.

Valerie grew up in Saint John’s north end, and married Joe in 1955. After pursuing careers with Angus Miller and the Worker’s Compensation Board for many years, during which she cultivated countless treasured friendships, Valerie embraced retirement with the type of enthusiasm which only she could adequately convey. Val greatly enjoyed her frequent visits with her daughter Jo Anne and her “favourite son-in-law” Steven at their home in Dartmouth, as well as her legendary shopping trips to Maine with “the girls”. Blessed with natural likability and an inclination to connect with and befriend other people, Val’s devotion to her family and friends was deep and unwavering. An avid reader and film buff, she was as happy with a good book or movie as she was socializing with her loved ones… especially if a nice glass of wine might be involved. As a devout member of the Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, Val enjoyed attending Mass regularly. She will be dearly missed by her family and her many cherished friends, both lifelong and new.

Valerie is survived by her loving daughter, Jo Anne Kimball (Steven) of Dartmouth, NS; brother Keith Cunningham of Saint John, NB; brother Bryan Cunningham (Lucille) of Las Vegas, NV; many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews; and numerous beloved friends.

Val’s family would like to express sincere gratitude to Dr. Linda Stephenson, as well as to the nurses, doctors, and support staff at the Saint John Regional Hospital’s Surgical ICU for their exceptional care and compassion.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (634-7424), where friends and family are invited to visit on Wednesday, December 4, 2019, from 2pm until 5pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady of The Assumption Church, 360 Dufferin Row, Saint John, NB, at 12:00 noon on Thursday, December 5, 2019. A reception will follow at Brenan’s on Paradise Row.

In lieu of flowers, Val’s family suggests that memorial donations may be made to The Joshua Group, Romero House, or any charity of the donor’s choice. Please place online condolences and remembrances at www.BrenansFH.com.