It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Willena Alice LeBlanc. On April 10, 2026, Mom reunited with her cherished husband, John LeBlanc, whom she missed dearly.

Mom embraced each day with warmth, kindness, generosity, grace, courage, and strength. She was the most compassionate and caring person we knew — always thinking of others, always giving, and always ready with a kind word or helping hand. Mom was happiest when doing something for someone in need.

Many will fondly remember her pot of spaghetti and meatballs, prepared with love and shared generously, along with her famous tea biscuits, which were always a favourite and enjoyed by all who were lucky enough to receive them. She loved concerts, shows, and fiddle nights at Rollie’s with friends, Fuzzy’s Fries, a can of Coke, and a chocolate bar. She poured her time and energy into her friendships, her home, and her trees and flowers. Her kindness, compassion, good nature, humour, and deep enjoyment of life will always be remembered by all who knew her.

Mom dedicated many years of her life to teaching, shaping young minds in Sydney Mines and later in Florence, leaving a lasting impact on countless students. She was an active member of Carmen United Church for many years and later remained active in the United Church until she moved to Calgary in 2017. She was a true fighter, continuing to embrace life with resilience and spirit, especially after making the move to Calgary with Ronda.

She made many trips to BC after moving to Calgary to visit Paula, Kevin, Mack, and Emma. Although she hated flying, she still managed several trips over the years to places such as Australia, Florida, Seattle, Calgary, Espanola, London, and Vancouver to visit family, and she treasured those experiences and memories. Mom embraced the many adventures her travels brought with grace and good humour, and she was warmly welcomed and cherished by the people she met along the way.

Predeceased by her mother, Evalene Matthews (Rogers); her father, William Matthews; her brother, Brian Matthews; her husband, John, whom many knew as Lala; her mother-in-law, Nellie LeBlanc; and her father-in-law, Joe Barb.

Survived by her daughter Paula (Kevin) Horgan of Surrey, BC; daughter Ronda of North Sydney; her sister Nancy Reid (Paul) of Ottawa; grandchildren Mack and Emma of Surrey, BC; a nephew, Brian; nieces Sherry and Jennifer; many sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law from John’s family; and cousins from both the Rogers and Matthews families, all of whom she made a great effort to stay in touch with.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff of Fisherman’s Court, and previously Wentworth Court, at Harbourstone Enhanced Care for their care, compassion, and dedication in looking after our mom.

Heartfelt thanks and appreciation are also extended to her many friends, neighbours, the people who looked out for her, and those who included her in their lives over the years. She talked to us about you often!!! You were so very kind, and we will forever be grateful.

Momma, may you have an infinite supply of Fuzzy’s fries and cans of Coke to share with all those who were there to greet you as you said goodbye to us.

Mum’s legacy is one of love, generosity, humour, and unwavering compassion for others. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

In accordance with her wishes, there will be no visitation or formal service. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a food bank or homeless shelter, as these were two charities she was passionate about and supported for many years, often giving even when it meant she did without.

Alternatively, a donation to the Hotchkiss Brain Institute would be appreciated in the hope that a cure may one day be found, so others do not have to endure her illness