Obituary of Valerie Jewel McIvor Billett
We are saddened to announce the peaceful passing of Jewel Billett on February 14th, 2024, after a lengthy battle with dementia. Jewel was born on October 29th, 1955 and was the third of four children born to Cliff and Jean McIvor in Eston, SK. Jewel went off to Saskatoon Business College after graduating high school and shortly after, worked at the Royal Bank in Rosetown, SK. Jewel soon opened the "Billett School of Dance" in Rosetown. The school participated in many competitions and won many awards over its decades of operation and the yearly recital was an anticipated event for many. Jewel was particularly proud that her school performed "Music Box Dancer," for Queen Elizabeth II in 1987. In 2006, Jewel retired and moved to Red Deer to be closer to her children and grandchildren. During retirement, she also discovered a love and talent for graphic design, becoming very skilled with PhotoShop and printing.
Jewel was "nana" to her beloved granddaughters Alexa and Hailey and they loved to go swimming or could be found cuddled up with their blankies watching movies together. Nana never passed up an opportunity to attend their performances, whether it was a dance competition or an impromptu living room performance. Her eyes would light up with pride and love and she cheered them on with unwavering support. Jewel's legacy of love and encouragement will forever resonate in the hearts of Alexa and Hailey, a testament to the special bond they shared.
She was loved and cherished by many people including her spouse, David; her mother, Jean; her brothers Rod (Nancy) and Troy (Christie); children Drew (Vanessa), Dustin (Christina), and Kate; grandchildren Alexa and Hailey; mother-in-law, Marie; numerous nieces, nephews, and in-laws; and the countless dance students she taught over the years.
Jewel was predeceased by her father Cliff McIvor, brother Kirk McIvor, and father-in-law Wilf Billett.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has shown kindness, support, and love during Jewel's journey and the challenging times of her illness. Your comforting words and gestures are deeply appreciated and have meant a great deal to the family.
A formal service to celebrate Jewel's life will be held at Rosetown United Church in Rosetown, Saskatchewan on June 22, 2024 at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Alzheimer Society of Canada or Red Deer Hospice Society in Jewel's name. Condolences to Jewel’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Billett” in the subject line.
Arrangements in care of
Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service
A locally owned cremation and funeral provider
serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta
587-876-4944