It is with profound sorrow (but many happy memories) that the family of Veronica Sarah Hillyard (Brown) announce her passing at Western Long-Term Care Centre on Saturday, April 4 at the age of 86 years.

Vonnie (aka Bonnie) will be lovingly remembered by her two devoted daughters: Wanda Hillyard of Kippens, NL and Debbie (Wayne) Cook of Bridgewater N.S, one cherished grandson Ryan Cook (Fredericton N.B), Sister-in-law Louise Brown, nephews David (Trish) Brown and Troy Brown all of Regina, Saskatchewan and many other relatives, good friends, neighbours and former coworkers.

Vonnie is predeceased by her parents Herbert and Angelina Brown, beloved only sibling Derek Brown. Best friend and sister-in-law; Betty J. Hillyard. Cousins; Nina Parsons (who was like a sister to her) and Vicki Parsons and her former spouse Bruce Hillyard as well as many cherished relatives of the Brown, Hillyard, Langer and Hynes families.

Mom was the best Christmas gift ever, born in Corner Brook on December 26, 1939 to the most loving and nurturing parents. She grew up in a vibrant neighborhood (what was once known as Pier Road) surrounded by cousins and friends, but her happiest childhood memories were summers spent with her late cousin Geraldine at her grandmother's house on Woods Island. Those idyllic summers left an indelible mark on her heart. She particularly enjoyed her uncle's dory rides to and from Woods Island and the rougher the waves the better!

Mom began her career in retail at 14, working for the notable small businesses of Alteen's Jewelry, Morris Gordons and Nova Photo on Broadway. Despite lacking formal education, her intelligence, strong work ethic and warm smile made her a standout sales clerk, for nearly 37 years she dedicated herself to serving the community at Corner Brook Co-op society, where her people skills and friendly demeanor earned her admirers.

At home, she was the anchor for her two daughters. A true "working mother" in every sense, she sacrificed endlessly to ensure her family wanted for nothing. Her energy creativity and resourcefulness were boundless-whether she was knitting beautiful intricate sweaters, crocheting table clothes or spending late nights baking cookies to ensure Christmas day was filled with extra magic.

Mom remained active and engaged well into her senior years, balancing care for her own mother with a passion for community involvement. She could often be found working at local polling stations during federal and provincial elections, cheering on local theatre productions and enjoying concerts but her favourite weekly ritual was undoubtedly her Friday afternoon 5-pin bowling league, a tradition she cherished with friends. She found great joys in the simple pleasures of the outdoors, from tending to her beautiful flower gardens, picking berries, hiking trails, to collecting sea glass along many beaches of her beloved island. However, her greatest joy was when she traveled to visit her daughters and their families with a carry-on suitcase filled with her delicious homemade cookies. We eagerly anticipated her mouth-watering meals especially her Sunday dinners and famous gravy, a taste of love and tradition that we will always cherish.

Mom was a fun-loving soul who could light up a room with her sharp, quick witted sense of humour. She was kind geneours as they came,but if you sat across from her at a game of 120's, you better have your wits about you. She was a fierce player who knew exactly how to play her hand, both at the table and in life. Those epic games were filled with sharp bids, triumphant wins and the kind of laughter that stayed in the room long after the cards were put away. She taught us that life, much like a good game of cards is about playing the hand you are dealt with style, grit and a little bit of mischief.

Our mother had her share of challenges, including her most recent battle with kidney cancer but she always met them with optimism and grace. Never one to complain, she remained pleasant till the end. An amazing woman who led with compassion for others and carried her strength quietly and powerfully. Rest well now mom. Your life was a blessing and your presence is deeply missed by many. You will be forever loved and always cherished in our hearts.

The family gratefully acknowledge the staff and volunteers of Still Waters Unit at Western Long Term Care Centre for the compassion, empathy and respect given to our mother these past 2 years. There are too many of you to name but we know who you are and we will never forget. Special thanks also given to Dr. Robert Young, her longtime family physician, for his dedicated care and support.

In following Veronica's wishes, cremation has taken place. A visitation will take place at Country Haven Funeral home on Thursday, April 9 2026 from the hours of 2:00 – 4:00 pm and 7:00 – 9:00 pm from where a funeral service will take place at Country Haven Funeral Home Chapel on April 10, 2026 at 2:00 pm with Rev. Kay Short officiating. Interment to take place at Mount Patricia Cemetery Columbarium Park following the funeral service. There are no flowers by request, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alzheimer's association or the Cancer Society or one's choice.

"Her smile was her signature and her kindness was her legacy."

Your mother is always with you.

She's the whisper of the leaves as you walk down the street, she's the smell of certain foods you remember, flowers you pick, the fragrance of life itself.

She's the cool hand on your brow when you're not feeling well, she's your breath in the air on a cold winter's day.

She is the sound of the rain that lulls you to sleep, the colours of a rainbow, she is Christmas morning. Your mother lives inside your laughter.

She's the place you came from, your first home, and she's the map you follow with every step you take.

She's your first love, your first friend, and nothing on earth can separate you.

Not time, not space.....not even death.