Obituary of Marina Angelina Jackson

October 12, 1940 - May 14, 2023.

We lost a remarkable woman yesterday. Our mother, Marina Angelina Jackson, 82, of Stoney Creek, Ontario, died peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family. 

Marina was born on October 12, 1940, to the late John and Smaro Gettas in Guelph, Ontario. She was a devoted mother to her two children: Shawna (Malcolm) Bruce and John (Constance) Jackson, offering love and support until her final days.  Yiayia, as she was affectionately known, will be greatly missed by her cherished grandchildren: Alexandra (Daniel) Lessard, Brittany, Kayla, Nick and Savanna. She took fierce pride in the accomplishments of each one of them and instilled in her children and grandchildren the importance of family, tradition, and our Greek heritage.

As one of the five “Gettas Girls” Marina is predeceased by her sister Helen Andrews and will be sorely missed by her sisters Jean (the late Angelo) Borovilos, Connie (Steve) James and Betty (Doug) Madill. They shared a lifetime of memories and a sisterhood bond like no other. She will also be missed by her many nieces and nephews and their children who formed the next generation of her warm and wonderful “Big Fat Greek Family.” 

Our mother was a woman of many professional talents. With her engaging smile and personality, she started her career as a hairdresser and then turned to demonstrating and merchandising. She could sell anything to anyone.  

The life of the party, Marina could often be found at family wedding’s dancing to Zorba the Greek or breaking out in song to an Elvis favourite during a music night at her retirement home. She knew how to have a good time and lived on her terms with her unwavering spirit that touched all those who knew her, including those she’d just met.

We sincerely thank the Season’s Stoney Creek team and the Hamilton General nursing staff on Floor 8 of the West Wing for the care and compassion they showed her during her final days. We’re also grateful to Kristin, her personal support worker, for the kindness and companionship she shared with our mother these last few months.  

Visitation will be held at the Donald V. Brown Funeral Home, 36 Lake Avenue Drive, Stoney Creek, on Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. and on Friday from 10 a.m. until the Funeral Service at 11 a.m.   A private interment will be held on Saturday at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Guelph, Ontario, bringing Mom’s journey in life full circle. 

Marina had great affection for all animals, especially her pet rabbit Zorba and cat Ouzo. She was a great pet Yiayia to Whisky, Bella, and Oban. In lieu of flowers, donations to a local pet charity of your choice would be appreciated. Online condolences and notes of sympathy may be left at www.donaldvbrown.ca