Obituary of Dr. Stephanie Matchett

Matchett, Stephanie   

With great sadness we share the passing of Dr. Stephanie Matchett of St. Stephen N.B., formerly of Miramichi, at the Charlotte County Hospital, July 25, at the age of 64 with her family by her side.

She was the daughter of Winnie (McKibbon) Matchett and the late Eddie Matchett. Besides her father she is predeceased by her sister Beth Grattan and her brother, Peter.

Stephanie will be greatly missed by her long-time partner, Fred Jones, and their son Frederick, sisters Debbie Vickers (Keith), Vicki Henderson (Kevin) and Pamela Matchett, all of Miramichi.

From a very early age she had an immense love for animals. If there was a stray animal, Stephanie would adopt it into our large family. This was the beginning of her long desire to be a veterinarian.

She was the epitome of resilience. When her first career as a residential Counselor ended, she decided to pursue her dream and return to studying. While working in group homes she managed to put herself through university, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree. She then was accepted into the University of PEI veterinary college and completed her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. During this time, she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, at the young age of 29. This did not sway her from full filling her dream.

 Stephanie was an inspiration to those who knew her. She lived each day as it came and showed what it was like to fight your way every single day. Where some people would become bitter, she did not, and she never looked for pity.

 We will miss her kindness and strength.

 Donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation or a donation of your choice.

 A graveside service will be held at St. Mary’s cemetery, Miramichi at a later date.