Obituary of Jacklyn Gertrude Holder
Holder, Jacklyn G. –
With heavy hearts, the family of Jacklyn “Jackie” Gertrude Holder of Long Reach announces her peaceful passing on June 27th, 2025, at the Saint John Regional Hospital, surrounded by those she loved most—her family. She was 76 years old.
Born on March 2, 1949, Jackie was the beloved daughter of the late Joseph Adrian and Thelma (Byers) Breau. She grew up in Moncton alongside her younger brother, spending her youth playing volleyball and actively participating in choir and church youth groups. Childhood summers were spent in Saint John at her aunts’ home, where she made lifelong friends and enjoyed sunny days at Dominion Park beach. While on a break from university, where she was studying to become a teacher, Jackie met the love of her life, Charles “Charlie” Holder. That chance meeting led to a 54-year marriage full of love and laughter.
Professionally, Jackie was a devoted teacher who had a gift for connecting with children of all ages. She poured her heart into the classroom, working in several schools throughout her career before retiring from Sunbury West School in Fredericton Junction. Her passion for education never waned—she always looked forward to the fresh faces and new beginnings of the first week of school.
Jackie most treasured time spent with her family. She particularly enjoyed the long, warm, summer days with her loved ones on the Holder family farm. In her retirement, nothing made her happier than watching her grandchildren grow. Her days were fun filled, whether sharing a laugh over a game of cards with close friends, cheering at a grandchild’s event, or simply enjoying a quiet moment in the sun.
Jackie’s warmth, wit, and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. She will be deeply missed.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Charlie; her loving children: Karen Sutherland (Shane) of Fredericton, Alex Holder (Robin Brown) of Saint John, Leanne Stodola (Ed) of Toronto, and Adrienne Fullerton (Steve) of Long Reach; her brother Rodney Breau (Sue) of Port Coquitlam; and her cherished grandchildren: Bronwen, Warren, Camden, Arwen, Laine, Hugo, Nicholas, Damon, Thomas, Travis, and Filip. She also leaves behind siblings, nieces, nephews, and extended family who will miss her dearly. Among them is her cousin Brenda, who was not only family but also Jackie’s best friend since childhood—a bond they carried throughout their lives.
Arrangements are under the care of Kennebecasis Community Funeral Home, 152 Pettingill Road, Quispamsis, NB, (506-849-2119). In keeping with Jackie’s request there will be no visitation or formal funeral service. For those who wish, donations in memory of Jackie can be made to the Saint John Regional Hospital Foundation.
