Obituary of Janet Elaine Briggs

It is with profound sadness that the family of Janet Elaine Briggs announce her passing on March 2, 2023 at the age of 64 years old. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family and the sounds of the ocean. Janet was born on November 1, 1958 in Saint John, NB to parents Donald and Christine Patterson. Growing up on the West Side of Saint John, Janet was the middle child of five and enjoyed playing and coaching many sports. Her personal drive and independence were evident at a young age; she was one of the first Irving girls to pump gas, and as a teenager, saved her earnings to purchase her first car. Janet graduated from Saint John High in 1976 and went on to further her education by obtaining a degree in Criminology from UNBSJ and her Masters at University of Ottawa. In 1983, Janet married the love of her life and high school sweetheart, Jamie Briggs, even though he was a “North Ender.” Together they moved to Nova Scotia where they raised their two children and spent 40 wonderful years. Working for the Department of Justice for over 25 years, Janet dedicated her career to helping those without a voice and those stigmatized by society. She was integral in the evolution of Nova Scotia’s Restorative Justice Program; an alternate justice system that offered victims a voice in the process and provided an active, and clear opportunity for offenders to be held directly accountable to the victim and the community they harmed. Under her management, this program developed into a world-class leader in the field of restorative justice. Other notable accomplishments throughout her career included the rehabilitation of people who had been incarcerated back into society, spreading awareness of Indigenous rights and striving for equity in the justice system. Janet was an independent and intelligent woman who had a love for learning and bettering herself. After retirement, she spent her time learning photography and how to grow luscious gardens, her specialty being garlic. Janet’s outgoing and selfless personality led her to volunteer on many committees in her community. She was always there to help, provide support to others, and share her knowledge any way she could. Above all, Janet’s greatest love and accomplishment was her family and friends. She cherished every minute spent with them whether it be trips to the cottage on the Saint John River, traveling the globe, soaking in the sunshine and salty air on the beaches of the 100 Wild Islands, boating with our pack of dogs, playing games, or enjoying a glass of oaky chardonnay around the campfire. Janet always had a zest for life and brought joy to all those around her, no matter the situation. She had the ability to make you feel safe, loved, important and understood. Her family will miss their trips together, her contagious laugh, “interesting” sayings, and the unconditional love she showed them every day. Janet will be remembered for her wisdom, patience and even-keeled advice that often brought a new perspective. She truly made the world a better place. Janet is survived by her loving husband Jamie; children Jason (Suzanne) Briggs and Jenna (Jonathan Darnbrough); siblings Angela (Ron Titus), Cheryl (Dave) Campbell, Donnie (Maureen) Patterson, Rick (Cindy) Patterson; in-laws Ron (Karin) Briggs, Jean (Steve) O’Neill and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by parents Donald and Christine Patterson, in-laws Kenneth and Rhoda Briggs, and sister-in-law Lynne Briggs. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held Monday, March 6 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. in Woodlawn United Church, 54 Woodlawn Road, Dartmouth. Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 7th at 11:00 a.m at the same location. In lieu of flowers, donations in Janet’s memory can be made to the Popes Harbour United Church at smackdeb@bellaliant.net Special thanks to Janet's care team Nicole, Terri, Randy and Lynn for your profound love and attention.