Heather Jean (Shaw) Roy

Heather Jean Roy (Shaw) passed away suddenly on August 20, 2023. Heather was born on August 24, 1949. Her parents, the late Dr. James Harold Shaw and Kathleen (Simons) Shaw had five daughters, Heather being the fourth, who were known by many as the ‘Shaw Sisters’. Heather was predeceased by her parents; her sisters Patsy Scales (Alan), Suzanne Theakston (Grant) and Margaret Shaw. She is survived by her son Michael (Mary) Roy and daughter Christine (Marty) Halmazna; grandchildren Jackson, James, Kinsley and Lexi; sister, Janet Baker (Greg); many nieces and nephews; and her partner Arnold Haines.

Heather was born and grew up in Charlottetown, PEI. She graduated from the PEI School of Nursing in June 1972, and began her career at the IWK Hospital in Halifax. She nursed there for a short time before moving to St. John’s, Newfoundland, where she worked at the Janeway Children’s Hospital in pediatrics until her retirement. Being a nurse was a natural gift for Heather. Her gentle, calm demeanour combined with her empathy and compassion provided comfort to countless patients and their families throughout the years.

Heather was a true friend and her kindness was unprecedented. She was always there to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Her thoughtfulness and consideration of others was well respected. Heather always had a smile on her face, enjoyed hearing a good joke, loved music and dancing, and lived a life full of cheer and optimism. She loved spending time with family and friends, cherishing the many walks with her friends and taking part in Sorority in St. John's. 

Heather loved travelling and she especially enjoyed summertime visits to her cottage in Stanhope, her 'little piece of heaven', where she could spend time with family. Everyone looked forward to the family get-togethers with lots of great food, music and wonderful memories. She loved Ross Lane Beach in Stanhope where she spent many years having fun and relaxing with her family and friends, always declaring it was the best beach in the world.

For Heather, family was everything. She was an incredible, devoted and loving mother and grandmother whose love for her children and grandchildren was deep and unconditional. She was truly a special person who will be greatly missed and remembered.

Heather’s funeral will be at Stanhope United Church (across from Stanhope Golf Course) (2615 PE-6, York, PE C0A 1P0) on September 11, 2023 at 12:00 pm.

A celebration of Heather’s life will be held in St. John’s, Newfoundland and will be announced at a later date.

Donations in memory of Heather can be made to either the Janeway Children’s Hospital Foundation or the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.