Profile photo of Jennifer Elizabeth Macfarlane

Jennifer Elizabeth Macfarlane

NovNovember 6th, 1988 • OctOctober 11th, 2026
Hamilton, Ontario
Jennifer Elizabeth Macfarlane

Obituary

Jennifer passed away on Sunday, October 11th surrounded by loved ones. She was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue in August of 2025. Despite two surgeries and extensive treatments the cancer had a plan of its own.

Jenn was a dedicated teacher, musician, singer, and knitter. A friend to all who got to know her. She loved to teach and play all band instruments and spent the last several years teaching Music & French at Pilgrim Wood Public School in Oakville. Jenn was also proud to serve as union steward, and was always available to advise staff when they had questions or concerns. During her brief return to work Jenn was thrilled to join the volunteer team producing the annual school musical. While unable to attend in person, Jenn was able to watch the premiere live from home thanks to her fellow volunteers.

Outside of work, Jenn was a prolific knitter, reader, and science fiction fan. Jenn’s knitting was displayed on occasion, at her favourite yarn store, to help inspire others. As many friends can attest, Jenn’s reading lists were often an inspiration to others. If you’re looking for a new book, please consider one of her favourites listed below.

Strata Vocal Ensemble

Jenn was a long-time volunteer and member of the Strata Vocal Ensemble. Please consider attending their upcoming performance at 3 pm on November 22nd at the MacNeill Baptist Church in Westdale.
Tickets may be purchased in advance from their website.



Gallery

Memory wall

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Reading List


Little Fires Everywhere
Celeste Ng
The Tea Dragon Society
K. O'Neill
Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism
Amanda Montell
The Golden Compass
Philip Pullman
The Hot Zone
Richard Preston
Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle
Emily & Amelia Nagasaki
The Marrow Thieves
Cherie Dimaline
Bel Canto
Ann Patchett
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Douglas Adams
The Little Prince
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Project Hail Mary
Andy Weir
Iron Widow
Xiran Jay Zhao

Celebration of Life


Please join us at the RBG Rock Garden Great Room on Saturday, November 7th to celebrate the life of Jennifer Macfarlane. Her partner Brandon, and her parents Marg and Doug, will welcome friends and family, from 1-4 pm, to share stories and memories of Jenn. While no formal ceremony is planned, those wishing to share any words of remembrance may do so at 2. Light refreshments will be served, and guests are welcome to explore the gardens.
Parking is located on the east side of York Blvd.
Location
RBG Rock Garden Great Room
1185 York Blvd, Hamilton, ON L0R 2H9
RSVP
Please consider an RVSP to help us gauge attendees.

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A donation to the Terry Fox Foundation, in lieu of flowers, would be appreciated.
https://terryfox.org/ 
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