Obituary of Marie Ellen Cleveland

Cleveland, Marie Ellen – It is with broken hearts that the family of Marie Ellen Cleveland (nee Billard), wife of Wilfred Cleveland announce her passing at the age of 85, on Sunday May 11, 2025, at Kings Way Care Centre surrounded by her family.

Born on September 27, 1939 in Grand Bruit NFLD, which she loved with a passion, she was the daughter of the late Wilfred and Ida Billard.  Marie was employed at Crosby’s Molasses for many years before taking early retirement.  She was a faithful member of First Wesleyan church in Saint John and then Kings Church in Quispamsis.  She loved travelling with her husband Wilfred and they enjoyed many adventures together as well as wintering in Florida for many years where she was able to spend lots of fun times with her sister Eilleen.  Her favorite hobbies were baking, walking, bowling and watching the birds from her window. She also enjoyed knitting hats for the babies at SJRH.  Marie and Wilfred loved spending time with their combined 6 children, 9 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.  Marie also loved her knitting group of friends that spanned over 50 years.  Marie was a sweet, kind and loving person who will be missed by all who knew her.

Marie is survived by her loving husband of 40 years Wilfred, her children; Larry Young of St. Catharines, ON, Nancy Young (Roy Gregan) of Quispamsis, Ken Young of Saint John, Stephanie Booker (Kevin) of Four Falls, NB, Melanie Cleveland of Saint John, and Dana Cleveland (Jill) of Saint John.  Grandchildren, Christopher, Rachel, Ryan, Connor, Jessica, Kennedy, Melissa, Jason and Evan.  Great Grandchildren Carter, William, Jacob and Anastasia.  Sisters Vivian Collier of Halifax, NS, Edith Giles (Cecil) of Ramea, NFLD, Eileen Dockstader (Jim) of Florida, Brother Seward Billard of Ontario.  Brother-in-law Phil Bond of NFLD, Sister-in-law Betty Young (Al) of Perth Andover as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Besides her parents she was predeceased by her oldest sister Florence Billard and youngest sister Dulcie Bond; Brothers-in-law Russell Collier and Doug Billard.

The family would like to thank Kingsway Care Centre for the wonderful care she received over the last 2 years.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s’ Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, New Brunswick, (506-634-7424). In keeping with Maries wishes there will be no visitation.  A Funeral Service will be held from The Brenan’s Chapel on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM, followed by a reception. Interment will take place in Fernhill Cemetery. For those who wish, donations in memory of Marie can be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of NB or the Canadian Diabetes Association.