JOHNSON: Janet Essie, age 86 years, passed away on Monday, March 16, 2020 at the Brandon Regional Health Centre. The seventh of nine children, she was born to the late Janet and Frank Taylor on the family farm near Portage la Prairie in 1934. Mom married her best friend Versyl on November 3, 1962 and they enjoyed 58 wonderful years together. Mom is survived by her husband Versyl, daughters Tara (Dave) Kitt and Dana (Ken) Templeton, grandchildren Brett, Jordan, Taylor (Moumen) and Madison, great-granddaughter Ella, brother William Taylor and sister Judy Taylor. Mom embraced life to the fullest with a sharp sense of humor, an inner strength and wisdom admired by all, and unconditional love. She treasured family above all else and was devoted to her loved ones. Upon retiring from Assiniboine Community College, mom and dad spent many happy summers at their cabin at Clear Lake and enjoyed winter vacations in the south. She loved nothing more than a glass of wine and a game of Scrabble with her daughters, which she always won! Mom’s grandchildren were her pride and joy and she was an integral part of their lives growing up. She loved watching her grandchildren play soccer, hockey and baseball and was a proud fan at all games. They will forever cherish and remember their grandparents’ home as a place of love and laughter. We grieve mom’s loss but are blessed and grateful for all the wonderful years together. The family would like to thank the staff of Rideau Park Personal Care Home and the Brandon Regional Health Centre for their kindness, care and compassion. A private family graveside service will be held at Hillside Cemetery, Portage la Prairie with Ron Moffit officiating. Donations in memory of Essie may be made to the Brandon Humane Society, 2200 – 17th Street East, Brandon, MB R7A 7M6.