Jenny Jeanes Death & Obituary: It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jenny Jeanes, a passionate advocate for refugee and migrant rights, who passed away on March 7, 2025. Her death has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of her family, friends, colleagues, and the countless individuals and families whose lives she touched through her unwavering commitment to social justice.
A Lifelong Advocate for Migrants and Refugees
Jenny Jeanes was an exceptional professional whose contributions to the refugee and migrant rights movement were both profound and transformative. Over her career, Jenny worked tirelessly to advocate for detained migrants and refugees, ensuring that their rights were upheld and their voices heard. As a long-time member of the Canadian Council for Refugees (CCR) and Action Réfugiés Montréal (ARM), Jenny played a key role in advancing justice for refugees and migrants in Canada.
As Vice President of the CCR, Jenny led efforts to improve the conditions of detained migrants, advocating for humane treatment and seeking reforms in immigration detention policies. Her dedication to justice was matched by her compassion for the individuals she served, and she became a beacon of hope for many in need of support.
A Compassionate Leader and Mentor
Jenny’s leadership extended beyond her professional achievements. She was also a mentor, friend, and advocate who nurtured the careers of many young activists. Throughout her time at ARM, she coordinated the Detention Program and visited the Immigration Holding Centre (IHC) in Laval every week, providing crucial support to detained migrants. Jenny’s work was deeply personal, as she sought to connect with the individuals she assisted, bringing empathy and understanding to every case.
In addition to her hands-on work, Jenny founded initiatives such as the ARM Twinning Program and a men’s group, which provided vital resources for individuals facing hardships in the community. Over her 20 years at ARM, Jenny mentored nearly a hundred students and interns, shaping the next generation of refugee and migrant advocates.
A Recognized Expert in Immigration and Detention Advocacy
Jenny’s influence extended far beyond her immediate community. As a respected expert in immigration detention, she was often called upon to testify before parliamentary committees and speak at public events. Jenny’s voice resonated in university classrooms, policy discussions, and public forums, where she passionately advocated for policies prioritizing the dignity and well-being of detained migrants and refugees.
A Legacy of Kindness, Humor, and Connection
Jenny’s colleagues and friends remember her for her infectious smile, positive spirit, and the warmth she brought to every room. Known for her remarkable ability to connect with people, Jenny made others feel valued and supported, regardless of their circumstances. Her kindness and empathy were felt deeply by all who knew her, and her genuine care for others made her an extraordinary individual.
One colleague shared, “Jenny was a force of nature—someone who made the world a better place with every action she took. Her passion for justice, her advocacy for refugees, and her care for everyone around her were unparalleled.”
Survived by Family and Friends
Jenny is survived by her loving husband, Colm, her daughters, Orla and Olivia, and her dog Dusty. Her family and close friends are deeply grieving her loss, yet they find comfort in knowing that Jenny’s work and spirit will continue to inspire future generations of advocates.
Continuing Jenny’s Legacy
Jenny’s passing has left a profound impact on the refugee and migrant advocacy community. Many organizations and individuals who worked with her have expressed their heartfelt condolences, recalling her as a passionate leader and a dear friend. Her dedication to justice, equality, and dignity for all individuals, especially the vulnerable and marginalized, will continue to guide and inspire the ongoing efforts in the refugee and migrant rights movement.
As a community, we honor Jenny’s memory by standing with those she fought so hard to support. Her legacy is woven into the very fabric of the advocacy landscape, and her work will continue to inspire the fight for justice, equality, and dignity for displaced individuals and families.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
In honoring Jenny Jeanes’ life, we are reminded of the importance of compassion, advocacy, and the power of community. Jenny’s unwavering commitment to these principles shaped her career and her legacy, and through our collective effort, we can continue her mission. While we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the extraordinary impact she had on the world and the lives she touched. Jenny’s legacy will live on in the countless lives she changed and the ongoing efforts to improve the lives of refugees and migrants worldwide.
Rest in peace, Jenny Jeanes. Your work, your advocacy, and your spirit will continue to inspire us all.
