October 23, 1959 – March 5, 2026
It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of our dear wife, mother, grandmother,
sister, friend, and helper to all, V. Doreen “Cissy” (Parsons) Naves, who passed away
on March 5th , 2026, at the Saint John Regional Hospital, surrounded by her loving
family.
Doreen was born in Saint John on October 23, 1959, to the late Lloyd and Olive (Daley)
Parsons, and was the loving wife of 41 years to her husband, George Naves.
Doreen was born with a caring and giving spirit that never wavered throughout her
entire life. She devoted her life to helping others. Throughout her career she worked in
caregiving roles with the John Howard Society and the Centre for Youth Care as a
Residential Care Worker, where she proudly earned her nickname Mamma D. While
she loved her work, her true passion was simply helping those in need.
Doreen made it her life’s mission to help others. Whether she was preparing backpacks
filled with essential items for people experiencing homelessness, organizing candlelight
vigils for MADD, or fundraising for causes that needed support, she was always finding
ways to give back.
One of the most meaningful ways she lived out this purpose was through fostering
children. Over the course of 25 years, Doreen welcomed hundreds of children into her
home. Some stayed for long periods of time, while others came for emergency
overnight placements, but every child who walked through her door found a safe haven.
She provided comfort, care, and stability to countless children and teenagers throughout
the years.
Doreen truly had a heart for serving and supporting others, and she touched the lives of
many because of it.
With her infectious spirit and stubborn determination, she had a way of fitting in and
getting along with everyone she met. She was strong-willed, resilient, compassionate,
and humble, never seeking recognition for the good she did—simply believing that
helping others was what she was meant to do. Even during her time in the hospital,
Doreen struggled with allowing others to care for her. She often joked that she was
a difficult patient, but admitted that even the strongest people eventually grow tired.
Doreen and George shared 41 remarkable years together, building a life filled with love
and companionship. Whether they were sitting together on the deck in front of the fire or
simply enjoying quiet moments together, their bond was evident to everyone around
them. George cared for her in countless ways, often without even acknowledging it
himself.
Doreen believed that good things happen to good people—and she was one of the very
best. She will be deeply missed by everyone whose lives she touched, whether briefly
or for many years, through her compassion, kindness, and selfless love.
In addition to her husband George, she is survived by her children, Courtney (Corey)
Israel, Michael Naves, and Gina Hooley; her grandchildren, Olivia, Kasia, Maddox,
Kamden, Kacey, Kaylie, and Kelsey; her siblings Terry, Ray (Pam), Nancy (Ken) Kiervin,
and Bobby (Reba), her special nephew Andrew Parsons, with whom she shared a close
bond; along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Along with her parents, she was predeceased by her son Gregg, and her brothers John
and Ned.
Doreen’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Ondiveeran, Dr.
Christopher O’Brien, and the entire staff and team of 3CN for their compassion,
kindness, and care—not only for Doreen, but for her family as well. This journey was
difficult, but you somehow made it a little easier.
To her two best friends – her loving husband George and sister Nancy, your devotion
and time spent will forever be appreciated and never be forgotten.
Arrangements are entrusted to Castle Funeral Home, 309 Lancaster Avenue (506-634-
1701), where visitation will be held from 2–8 pm on Thursday, March 12th , 2026. In
keeping with Doreen’s wishes, an evening vigil style service will be held at the Castle
Fallsview Chapel on Friday, March 13th , 2026, at 6 pm, to celebrate her life.
For those who wish, Doreen’s family kindly requests that donations be made to A Living
Memorial for the family.
