A Celebration of Life

In Loving Memory of Hazell Yvonne Keane

Sunrise: December 9th 1935.              Sunset: September 4th 2025.

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude that we gather in remembrance, to honor and celebrate a life that touched so many. A life woven with kindness, resilience, quiet wisdom, and a deep faith in Jesus. While words may struggle to capture the full essence of a person, we offer this obituary as an emblem of their enduring legacy and the cherished memories they leave behind.

Hazell was born in Kingstown, Saint Vincent and The Grenadines to Magdeline Keane who passed on shortly after giving birth. Her childhood and early adulthood were spent, therefore, with her Grandmother (Mama), Aunt Edna, and Uncles Shake, Macintyre and T.V. Keane. From early childhood, it was clear that hers was a spirit marked by curiosity and generosity. Born into a world swirling with change, she navigated the contours of life with an open mind and an open heart. Friends recall childhood afternoons filled with laughter, thoughtful questions, and a willingness to extend a hand to anyone in need. The roots of empathy and compassion, planted in those formative years, flourished throughout her lifetime.

Her academic journey was a testament to diligence and a lifelong passion for learning. She was educated at the Kingstown Methodist School and later attended the Girls High School. Whether seated in a sunlit classroom or poring over books late into the night, she approached every lesson with dedication. School was not simply a place for personal advancement, but a community to be nurtured and uplifted.

As she matured, the pursuit of knowledge led her to new horizons. She taught at the Kingstown Methodist School, then immigrated to Canada where she found employment as a librarian, and later at a garment care facility. Never content to remain stagnant, she embraced challenges as opportunities for growth. The tapestry of her education was woven from threads of religion, literature, art, and a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of all things. Unfortunately, she was forced into early retirement because of an eye injury. This resulted in her spending the remainder of this life in assisted living facilities.

At the heart of her life was community. As a devoted child, niece, friend and coworker, her love was unconditional and steadfast. Friends describe her as a confidante, a cheerleader, and a wise counselor. In times of joy, her happiness amplified every celebration; in times of sorrow, her empathy softened every burden. Lifelong bonds formed over shared experiences and mutual support, and her circle of friends became an extended family defined not by blood, but by love. 

Hazell faithfully attended church until she was no longer physically able. She was someone shaped by faith, joy, and a confidence that her Heavenly Father was able to carry her through any challenge that came her way. Friends who knew her later in life remember beautiful times of prayer, singing hymns, reading Scripture, and, yes, quoting Shakespeare as if she were on a stage!

As we reflect upon her legacy, it is not grand achievements or accolades that linger, but the small acts of kindness, the thoughtful words, the steadfast presence, and enduring faith. Her life reminds us that greatness is found in humility, in generosity, and in the ability to lift others up.

She leaves behind a community enriched by her care—a family strengthened by love, friends emboldened by encouragement, and colleagues inspired by her example. The ripples of her influence extend far beyond what can be measured or seen. The family and friends extend heartfelt gratitude for the support and condolences expressed during this difficult time.

In this moment of farewell, we hold close the memories that sustain us. Grief is the echo of love, and though we mourn her absence, we celebrate the light she brought into our lives.

May we honor her memory by embodying her values: kindness, curiosity, resilience, and compassion. May we carry forward the lessons she taught, and might we find comfort in knowing that, in countless ways, she lives on through those whose lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Montreal Association for the Blind (MAB).

John 17 was her favourite biblical passage, so we end with these words, of Jesus, from verse 24: “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.”

Rest in peace, dear friend and cherished soul. Your journey has shaped ours, and your memory will remain a guiding star. We can only imagine the singing and dancing that is going on in Heaven now as you meet Your Precious Saviour!

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Funeral Service will be held at:

Kensington Presbyterian Church, 6225 Godfrey Ave, Montreal (H4B 1K3)

·         Visitation at 1:30 pm

·         Service at 2:00 pm

·         Light refreshments to follow

Interment will take place following the service at :

Urgel Bougie, 3955 Chemin Cote-de-Liesse, Saint-Laurent (H4N 2H6)