Jean Elizabeth Chesham (née Blackburn), age 93, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on January 14, 2026, in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada.

Jean was born on February 12, 1932, in Medicine Hat, Alberta, to the Reverend Malcolm Stewart Blackburn, a Presbyterian minister, and Ruth Rose Blackburn (née Barr). Her early years, in Banff, Alberta, were shaped by faith, family, and community. She later moved to Vancouver, British Columbia, beginning the next chapter of her life there. Jean was predeceased by her two brothers, Reverend Malcolm Blackburn and Donald Blackburn.

Horses were a lifelong passion for Jean. She saved diligently to purchase her first horse, Rocky, for $75, and rode him everywhere, beginning a bond that would shape much of her life. This love of horses was later shared with her three daughters and granddaughter, becoming a treasured family legacy.

Jean began her career with Prudential Insurance. Over the years, she and her family also worked in the hospitality industry, and spent many years farming in the lower mainland of British Columbia, building a life grounded in hard work and perseverance.

Later in life, Jean returned to school to become a certified Special Needs educator. She was a founding member and instrumental in the establishment of the Valley Therapeutic Equestrian Association, where she helped provide riding lessons for children with special needs. Her belief in the healing power of horses and her compassion for others touched many lives. Jean’s love of horses remained strong even in her final days.

Jean is lovingly remembered by her three daughters, Joanne Hengst (Harry), Karen Sturkie (Christopher), and Lynda Chesham, by her two granddaughters, Shaleigh Phillips and Ashley Holt as well as her nieces and a nephew.  She was predeceased by her dear friend, Marguerite Cato, whose friendship held a special place in her life.

A private graveside service will be held, with a celebration of life to take place at a later date.

Jean’s family finds comfort in the promise that she is now at peace in God’s presence, and in the confidence that they will one day be joyfully reunited with her. 

“When I grow too old to dream… your love will live in my heart.”

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