Obituary of Sharon Marie McDevitt

It is with deep sadness that the family of Sharon Marie McDevitt announce her passing on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at the Saint John Regional Hospital. She was 79 years old.

Born in Saint John, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Kathryn Merritt. She was predeceased by her sister Brenda Fudge McNeil and brother Robert Merritt.

Sharon is survived by her beloved husband of over 61 years, Paul McDevitt; her children: Paul McDevitt, Sharon White (Tony), and James McDevitt (Sally); and her grandchildren: Michael White and Alex White (Tessa).

Sharon was a proud stay-at-home mom, completely devoted to her children and grandchildren. In her younger years, she held a few jobs, most notably at the Kent Theatre, where she met Paul more than 60 years ago.

Born with a rare heart condition, Sharon was among the first—and youngest in Canada to undergo open heart surgery at the age of 4. She faced lifelong health challenges with strength and resilience, consistently surpassing expectations and amazing her doctors.

She loved to read and was a talented knitter, often crafting clothing and special items for her family. Her greatest joy in life was spending time with her children and especially grandchildren, whom she adored beyond measure. She was present for so many big and small moments in their lives, always offering love, laughter, and endless support.

One of her favorite pastimes was seasonal camping, especially at Pine Cone Trailer Park, where she spent every second, she could during the summer. Sharon and Paul created wonderful memories there with their children and later their grandchildren.

Sharon also had a lifelong love of dogs. Throughout her children’s upbringing, the family always had a dog in the home—often kept close by her side.

Visitation will be held at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, (506 – 634 – 7424) on Saturday, April 19 at 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with the funeral service at 1:00 p.m., followed by a reception and interment at Fernhill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.