Through broken hearts we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, sister and friend, Fern Healy "Poonahkii" (Small woman). Fern crossed over to the big camp on November 20, 2020 at the age of 65 years after a long and courageous battle. Fern passed peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital with her daughter Robyn and sister Shirley by her side.
Fern is survived by her partner, Thomas Jerry; sons, Billy Jack and Larry Jr. Healy (Jamie); daughter Robyn (Mark); grandchildren, Talina, Waasamo, Josiah, Zach, Jedai, Brooklyn, Billy, Kayla, Madison, Jaxson, Ray John, Harlow, Sebastian, Aiden, Jacy, Mason, Raphael and Dragon; brother, Del Healy Sr.; sisters, Sheila Healy, Joyce Healy, Shirley Steele, Leanne Duce, Bella, Lila and Jessie; dear friends, Florence Saskatchewan and Kirtsy Scout; adopted son, Tauri Friefen; numerous nieces and nephews and extended family including: White Feathers, Day Chief, No Runners, Old Shoes, Soop, Weasle Fat, Brown, Mountain Horse, Wadsworth and Scout.
Fern was predeceased by her husband, Larry O'Sullivan Sr.; son, Raphael John; mother, Betty White Feathers; father, Arthur Healy; brothers, Winston Healy, Art Healy, Jordan Healy, Burton Healy and Terry Healy; sister, Patsy Healy; sister-in-law, Diane, and nephew, Wildon Healy Sr.
Although Fern was a small woman one couldn't tell as her heart was fierce, especially when it came to protecting her children. Fern had the biggest most beautiful smile that would light up the room. Her heart was kind, as she was a gentle soul yet a strong determined woman who worked hard at everything she did. In the earlier years she would read the bible to her children teaching them the importance of accepting the Lord and having good moral values. In her younger years Fern worked hard labor next to her husband Butch in their stucco business. And when they weren't working hard they would take their kids camping, hunting and fishing.
Fern became a young, single mother which was extremely hard but that didn't stop her from succeeding in her endeavors. She was a role model to her children as they watched her go back to school to upgrade, eventually receiving her high school diploma, all the while working two jobs for several years as a Health Care Aide. Fern worked at the Fort Macleod Extendicare and the Lethbridge Extendicare as well as Southland, eventually working full time at the St Michael's Palliative care centre which she remained for years as she absolutely loved helping others and enjoyed her coworkers.
After taking time after her son's passing Fern decided she wanted more and went back to school yet again. Her children watched and admired as she went to school to receive her Medical Office Administration diploma through Reeves College.
Fern was a survivor. She was a strong, resilient woman who took pride in her greatest accomplishment, her children. You can often hear her boasting about her family referring to them as the magnificent 5. To her children she was not only a mother but their best friend.
As a single mother she worked extra hard to provide, always keeping an immaculate home and ensuring her children had what they needed. Through her hard work ethic and determination these qualities were instilled into her children. Fern was awe-inspiring with how she persevered through her hardships, including the trauma she endured at residential school. Again, helping shape her children into solid, good-hearted people.
Fern loved her family and friends dearly as she would reach out to always remind them how special they were to her. She loved her grandchildren and her little Chihuahua, Lily girl, more than anything and enjoyed showering them with love and sporadic little gifts; especially spoiling them at Christmas which was her favourite time of the year.
In her free time, she enjoyed spending time with her children whether that meant going for walks or going for coffee or a drive to the country. Fern enjoyed supporting her grandchildren during the summer whether that was watching them play soccer or baseball. You could see the pride she had as she would grin ear to ear while they played. Mom especially enjoyed playing bingo with her son Larry and the occasional slots with her partner Thomas.
You would often catch Fern looking up in the sky, gazing and admiring the clouds stating that there were angels watching over her and signs from her baby boy Raphael. Her children and grandchildren would often play; searching and calling out the different animals and shapes they could see. Now that mom has joined the angels her family will be doing a lot more gazing into the clouds hoping and praying that they too will get a sign from the angels, especially from their beautiful mother and grandmother.
Fern's departure has left a huge hole in the hearts of those who knew her. She will be missed greatly but we take solace in knowing that she is no longer in pain and has returned to her Heavenly Father and those who have passed before us.
Mom, you will continue to live on through your children and grandchildren. We will strive forward for you and continue making you proud. Thank you for everything, for being our mother and our best friend. Forever in our hearts, Poonahkii.
A Private Wake will be held on Friday, November 27, 2020. Due to the recent COVID-19 gathering restrictions, attendance is limited to Fern's immediate family only.
A Private Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, November 28, 2020. Due to the recent COVID-19 gathering restrictions, attendance is limited to Fern's immediate family only.
Fern will be laid to rest in One Spot Cemetery.