Obituary of Vannessa Sherriff

It is with great sadness that the family of Mary “Vannessa” Sherriff wish to announce her passing on March 17^th, 2023, at Shannex Tucker Hall.  Born in Bideford P.E.I. on January 29^th, 1953, she was the daughter of Arnold Alexander Ross and the late Catherine Ann (Murchinson) Ross. 

Vannessa will be missed by her loving husband Bill Sherriff, children: Jason (Michelle) Praught, of Saint John N.B and Mary-Ann (Paul) Masson, of Saint John N.B, grandchildren: Brooke, Spencer, Tristen, and Charlotte.  Her 7 brothers and sisters: Pat Dean, of Summerside P.E.I, Delbert (Ila) Ross, of Saint John N.B, Roberta “Bert” (John) Bleumortier, of Fredericton N.B, Robert “Bob” (Trudy) Ross, of Ellerslie P.E.I,  Myrna (Tom) Boyle, of Ellerslie P.E.I, Doug (Cathy) Jackman, of Ellerslie P.E.I, Charles (Donna) Jackman, of Ellerslie P.E.I  & Teddy (Nancy) Jackman, Red Deer A.B, and one Aunt Grace Close, of Ellerslie P.E.I,  several nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

Vannessa achieved her life-long dream of becoming a nurse and proudly practiced nursing for 29 years.  She worked in several nursing homes, hospital units and OR’s, with the Cardiac OR being her favourite.  She never sat still—she always kept busy through sewing, crafting, volunteering, and travelling with her husband.  Over the years, Vannessa stayed active by lifeguarding, playing ringette, coaching her son’s hockey teams, and attending her daughter’s dance shows and competitions.  As she grew older, she maintained her health by exercising and playing with her beloved grandchildren.  She often said, “My children are my greatest gift and all I ever wished for, but now I have grandchildren and I can’t wait to spoil them.”  Vannessa had a huge heart and never hesitated to help—even without being asked.  Family was everything to her and she often drove between Saint John and P.E.I. to visit, care for, or even party with (play pranks on) the ones she loved.  Vannessa was loved and admired by all who knew her, and she will be truly missed. 

Vannessa is predeceased by her mother; Catherine and brother-in-law; Bill Dean. 

The arrangements are under the care and direction of Castle Funeral home, 309 Lancaster Ave. Saint John, NB (634-1701). A visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, from 2:00pm to 4:00pm and 6:00pm to 8:00pm.  A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at Castle “Fallsview” Chapel at 10:00am.  Internment to take place in Lorneville “Seaview” Cemetery in the spring of 2023.  Celebration of life will take place following the funeral at Church of the Good Shepherd, 668 Manawagonish Rd.  Donations to the Alzheimer’s society or the charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family.  Online condolences can be made at www.castlefh.ca.