Jean Iona Osborne - 81, Williams Country Home, Hilden, formerly of Queen Street, Truro, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Thursday morning, January 12, 2012, at the home. Born September 29, 1930, in Parrsboro, she was a daughter of the late Colby and Ida (Hunter) Smith.

Jean had a strong faith in God and was a member of Salvation Army all her life. She put all her energy into raising her four children and making her house a home. She always kept strong ties with family and friends in Parrsboro. Jean spent the last years of her life at Williams Country Home and loved every minute of it. She was happy and singing everyday. We are truly thankful for the love and dignity shown to her by all her Williams Country Home family. Over the past few days, we have had a chance to express our love, say goodbye and reflect on her life. We agree the greatest gift she gave us was herself. She was always there for each of us whenever we needed her.

Jean is survived by her children, Dorothy (Michael), Denise, Teresa (Lynn), Anthony (Gail); grandchildren, Tal, Greg, Stacy, Amy; sister, Marjorie; brothers, Ernie, Allison, Curtis; several nieces and nephews. Along with her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Gerald (2003), her handsome soldier who she started her life with; sisters, Dot, Myrtle, brothers, Eldridge, Hartley, Carl.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall ~ Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, where Jean’s family will receive friends from 10-10:45 a.m., Saturday, January 14, 2012, followed by the funeral service at 11 a.m., Captain Stephen McNeilly officiating. Reception will follow. Interment will be held in Baptist Cemetery, Parrsboro. Family flowers only. If so desired, donations in Jean’s memory to Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia are welcomed. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting the “Guest Book” at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com