In memory of

Stella Hetta Briand

October 11, 1923 -  August 26, 2018

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Stella peacefully at Oshawa Lakeridge Hospital with family by her side on August 26th, 2018, six weeks short of her 95th birthday.

This gentle and dynamic war bride was born in Genoa, Italy, grew up in London, England. She met and married the love of her life Sgt. James Briand who became a war hero honoured with the medal of French Legion of Honour medal.

James and Stella settled in Toronto raising two young children. They returned to England for a few years where their third child was born. In 1956, Canada became their permanent home.

Beloved mother of Jeannette Briand (Dr. David Adams), Toronto; Michael Briand (Melitta Austin), Ballantrae; and Garry Briand (Patricia Buzeta), Oshawa. She will be sorely missed by her grandchildren Adam Briand (Laura White), Toronto; Joshua Briand, Vancouver; Jamen Ford (Sarah), Toronto; Gentry Ford, Toronto, Christopher Briand, Oshawa, and great grandchildren Claire and Hannah Briand. Stella was aunt to Maxine Collis and had other relatives in the United Kingdom.

The family is grateful to all of the staff of Amica, Whitby for their kind and loving care of Stella for the past 10 years. Also a special thank you to the Critical Care staff at Station 3 Oshawa Lakeridge Hospital for the attention and kindness they provided Stella.

A Celebration of Life for Stella will be held on September 1, 2018 at the York Funeral Centre, with a visitation one hour prior. Donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Guestbook 

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Heather Briand Roy and Shawn Jefferson (Niece and family)

Entered August 28, 2018 from Burlington

Aunt Stella will be dearly missed by all who knew her. She was such a funny, kind and generous soul. She was tiny, but only in stature, her presence and smile filled a room.

Aunt Stella and Uncle Jim filled so many wonderful childhood memories of mine, as they and mom and dad enjoyed so many fun times together.

Shawn and I are so very grateful that we spent a lovely afternoon with Aunt Stella and my parents, at her residence, in early August.

We are so saddened at losing this lovely lady.
She is back by the side of her beloved Uncle Jimmy, and we find comfort in that.

Sending our love and strength to Jeannette, Michael and Gary and their families.

All our love, Heather, Shawn and family xo

Sandra Mason (Friend)

Entered August 29, 2018 from York, UK

Stella was an inspiration, she may have been in her 90s but at heart she was much younger. I am glad that I knew her and will always remember her fondly.

Loretto Vella (Friend)

Entered August 29, 2018 from Florida

Stella’s family and friends were blessed to share the life of this wonderful woman. It is always sad to lose the company of a loved one - but somewhat easier when you have so many happy remembrances.
Loretto

Maria Dantas (Friend and longtime hair stylist)

Entered August 30, 2018

She was like a second mama always great for advice and her opinion. I loved hearing all her Amica stories. I love her dearly she was a tough cookie I didn't think the last haircut we did on her was going to be my final one. She had a big heart and I felt her love 💜 and her beautiful smile 😗 I always look forward to her and Patricia's visits every month. They would come in together. I didn't realize how much Jeanette you look like your mom in her younger pictures. I am blessed to have this beautiful family in my life too

Wayne and Doreen MacKinnon (Aunt in law)

Entered August 31, 2018 from Pleasant Bay, N.S.

Sincere sympathy to Jeanette, Michael, Gary and families. She was a lovely lady.May she Rest In Peace.

Photos 

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