PICKERING, Orient Jeanie
November 14, 1929 - June 27, 2015
Mrs. Orient Jeanie Pickering, a long time resident of the Drumheller Valley passed away after a lengthy illness in Drumheller on June 27, 2015 at the age of 85 years. Ora was born to Bill and Jean Waring in Calgary, Alberta on November 14, 1929. Being that is was the “dirty 30’s”, the family had to move where the work was, so her schooling was in different towns. Ora did fondly remember her years in Hanna going to school and growing up. Ora worked in various places throughout her life. She worked as a nurse’s aid at a children’s home in Calgary, a cook in Hay River, but her longest job was at the Drumheller Hospital, working at food prep in the kitchen/cafeteria. She worked there for many years until her retirement in November 1994. Ora loved crocheting. She came up with designs right off the top of her head, no pattern needed. She used this creative ability to refurbish dolls and stuffed animals for homeless shelters and youth shelters in Calgary. Ora donated up to 50 of these at one time and many more, too many to count.
Ora’s interests were her family and friends. A saying she often said about love was “they hung the moon and the stars”. This is the way Ora felt about her son, Bill and her grandson Willie. She loved them unconditionally and with all of her heart. As many of you know Ora gave of her time, money and especially food. She never wanted anyone left out or hungry and always invited people to be around her table. When she lived on 3rd Street East, she met a Grace House resident in front of her house, this developed into a great relationship which continued until Ora moved into the Sunshine Lodge. She took care of her “boys” as she called them and they took care of her. She spent her last years in the Sunshine Lodge and Continuing Care. After settling in she was happy and tried to take care of fellow residents and new comers, helping them settle in, she was kind until the end. Ora was predeceased by her parents, Bill & Jean Waring, her sister Wilma (Ralph) Cheney. Ora leaves to cherish her memory, one son, Bill (Christine) Pickering, one grandson, Willie Pickering, one great grandchild, Abel Pickering. Two nephews, Ralph Cheney and family, and Ed Cheney. A Service of Remembrance will be held Friday, July 3, 2015 at the Salvation Army Citidel at 11:00 a.m. with Officer Jennifer Hillier officiating. A private family interment with be held later. If friends so desire memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice. Courtney-Winter’s Funeral Homes are in care of the arrangements.
