Obituaries

With pain in our hearts and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Prima Jane Bouchard, who was surrounded by her loving family at her home on March 30, 2026.

Born at the Grace Maternity Hospital in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Prima was the youngest of ten children of John and Mary (née DeYoung) O’Brien. She was a devoted wife to her husband, Marc André Bouchard, and a proud mother to her sons, Aaron and Brandon. She cherished her daughters-in-law, Mallory Anne Bouchard (Graves) and Elizabeth Helen MacGillivray. The greatest love of her life was her granddaughter Marella Anne Bouchard, of whom the sun rose and set.

She grew up in Fairview, where her happiest days were spent barefoot playing until the streetlights came on and it was time to go home. Being the spirited baby of her immense sibling group, she was consistently surrounded by the love and joy of her brothers and sisters, where she was right in the middle of the whirlwind of fun—a revolving door of neighbours and friends at McFatridge Rd. She had fond memories of her father bringing home treats from his pharmacy, her mother spoiling her on shopping trips, and dancing around the house with her older sisters who had all of the latest hit records of the era. She also loved her summer vacations on Queensland Beach.

In her teenage years, after most of the siblings started families of their own, Prima’s parents migrated to Bridgewater, Nova Scotia. In this time she spent socializing, making tons of friends, and being dubbed ‘most likely to date’ by her high school peers. Shortly after, Marc came into the picture with a motorcycle and guitar and they fell in love. They were wed in the mid-1980s and the family welcomed Marc with open arms as he swiftly became an uncle and brother-in-law to many.

Shortly after her marriage, she became the mother of two boys who quickly became her world. Prima and Marc settled with their children in Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, near to many of her own siblings and their families. As a stay-at-home mother, she created an environment of comfort and care and always had an open door policy for guests, just like she had as a child.

Prima had a true gift for bringing life and beauty to everything around her. Known for her signature black and white style, she also took great pride in her home, keeping it tidy and welcoming. She was a passionate gardener and her hands were rarely clean, always busy tending to her flowers. Her red begonias brightened her deck, and her lavender harvest was something she proudly shared each year. She loved the birds around her home, especially watching for red cardinals, finding serenity in their songs.

Her home was the heart of many celebrations, including Christmas Eve, Canada Day, and St. Patrick’s Day. Whether gathered with family or friends, often enjoying a cold Oland’s, Prima welcomed everyone with warmth and laughter. She absolutely loved music and could often be found in her kitchen, dancing and singing. You would often find her sitting at the kitchen table with her scratch tickets and coffee in hand, a ready ear for any woes, jokes or stories. She was never one to withhold her true opinion—and frequently gave sage advice.

Known as the “switchboard operator and social secretary” of the family, Prima always knew where everyone was and never missed an opportunity to make a birthday or anniversary special. She, along with Marc and their boys, were dedicated Montreal Canadiens fans, and she rarely missed a moment of Olympic coverage.

Prima had a warmth and charisma that drew people in. Her door was always open. She loved the sun, the beach, and being on her deck, and she cherished time spent with her six sisters and three brothers, sharing countless memories filled with laughter.

The constant thread through Prima’s life was her loving devotion for all of her family. An aunt to dozens of nieces and nephews (and great-nieces and nephews), she doted on them all with pure gentleness and attention. Family meant everything to Prima. She was a beloved figure to all. They adored her just as much as she adored them.

Prima will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. The immeasurable love, warmth, and spirit she gave will endure in all of our hearts.

Celebration of life will be announced at a later date.