PATRICIA "PAT" JESSUP

It is with deep sadness that the family of Patricia "Pat" Mary Anne Jessup announces her passing on March 22, 2026, at the age of 78. Pat will be lovingly remembered by her children, Rory (Susan), Shane, and Meghan; her grandchildren, Kate, Bee, Jules, Lochlainn, and Fynn; her sister, Jayne (Rick); brother, Vernon; niece, Samantha (Stuart; and grandnephew, Dean); nephew, Hunter; and cat, Charlie. She was predeceased by her cherished nephew, Kirby; husband, Jim; parents, Vernon and Diane; and her dear cat, Seamus. Pat leaves behind a legacy defined by her deep love of art, her passion for history, and her quick, sparkling wit. She was never happier than when she was teaching her grandchildren to paint or draw, or guiding them through an art gallery. Her sense of adventure was matched only by her gift for retelling each escapade with humour and flair - for no adventure was complete without just a hint of mischief woven in. Pat was also a skilled golfer, a passion she shared with her son, Shane. Pat's remarkable career spanned decades of military, cultural, and community engagement. As a Lieutenant Commander (Ret'd), Pat served for over 20 years as a Community Relations and Public Affairs Officer with the Royal Canadian Navy. Her expertise in naval war art, particularly from the Second World War, was widely respected. Following her military career, Pat continued her commitment to honouring Canadian service members as Director of Communications and Commemorations at the Last Post Fund, where she worked to ensure dignified recognition for veterans across the country. Her efforts helped strengthen national remembrance initiatives and contributed to policy changes for Silver Cross families. Pat was a long-serving Docent at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, a Chair of its Volunteer Committee, and a dedicated member of the Canadian Naval Memorial Trust, where she served in communications and editorial capacities, including editor of Action Stations. She also served as Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia. She took particular pride in her role during the Royal Canadian Navy Centennial Fleet Review in Halifax with Queen Elizabeth II, a moment that reflected her lifelong admiration for the monarchy. Pat was recognized nationally for her extraordinary service and commitment to Canada's military and veteran communities, most notably through her appointment to the Order of Military Merit, one of the country's highest honours for dedication and leadership. She was also awarded the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal, Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal, and Queen's Platinum Jubilee Medal for her significant contributions to Canadian veterans, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff Commendation for her work on the HMCS Kootenay commemorations. Pat's proudest contributions to the veteran communities were organizing the annual veterans' trip to Londonderry and coordinating the annual Battle of Atlantic Musical Gala, and most notably, the beloved 'Til We Meet Again Remembrance Concert. Pat was a devoted mother, sister, grandmother, wife, colleague, mentor, and community leader whose life was marked by service to her family, her province, the Royal Canadian Navy, and to Canada's veterans. Her legacy is one of compassion, courage, and service. She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered. A special thank you to the staff of Rideaucrest Homes for their care and compassion, and especially Sharon for constant support and companionship. We will be forever grateful to you for your kindness. If desired, memorial donations would be gratefully accepted in support of the Last Post Fund, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, the HMCS Sackville or a Charity of Your Choice in honour of Pat's lifelong commitment to community and remembrance. "Fair winds and following seas."