Jean Scott was the oldest living recipient of The Governor General's Persons Case Award for her lifetime of work for the betterment of women. Jean passed away just a few months shy of her 103rd birthday at the beginning of March, 2015.
I had the great honour of getting to know and be inspired by this amazing woman. She lived in Chilliwack BC at the same seniors residence as my mother.
I loved singing my Famous Five songs for the residents when I would visit my Mom and dedicate the songs to Jean Scott and my mother and to all the women who had worked so hard through the years to improve the lot of all women.
Jean was still working hard on re-editing her book Brown Sugar And A Bone in The Throat. She felt that she had been too gentle when she wrote it and that she needed to be stronger in voicing her opinions.
She also worked at organizing her scholarship fund established through The University of the Fraser Valley from whom she had received an honorary degree.
If I wanted to visit with Jean I had to go after lunch because, even though she was over 100, she spent the morning 'working'.
Jean played enthusiastic piano and sang with great gusto! I have video of her singing O Canada and God Save the Queen. It brings me to tears to watch.
Her love of country and dedication to purpose amazed me in a woman of her age. A fire burned bright in her and she influenced many in her life time.
I look forward to dedicating my Famous Five songs to her memory when I perform next week end for International Women's Day!
Here are the words that Jean Scott wrote for the 'Person's Day' celebration on October 18 in Olympic Plaza at The Famous 5 Monument.
"At this time I encourage everyone to think of women all over the world. They need our help. Canada has a history of wonderful women in their time who have worked to make changes here in Canada.
Everything we do is like a pebble in a pond. The rings go wider and wider into the world and women everywhere are encouraged by our actions.
We each have this seed within us. Let's nurture it so it grows into acts of good will and caring.
As Nellie McClung used to say "Don't stop to argue. Let's get on with it!"
Thank you , Jean Scott, for all your hard work and dedication. You have inspired many and your memory will inspire many more.