Fay Ekstrom

It is with both sadness and gratitude for a life well lived that the family of Fay Marie Ekstrom announce her passing, which occurred on Sunday, March 8, 2026, in Saint John, New Brunswick. Born in Saint John on April 18, 1964, she was a daughter of the late Donald and Anita (Bursey) Ekstrom.

Fay is lovingly remembered by her son, Nicholas Maxwell (Cassandra Desharnais); her cherished grandchildren, Xavier, Alix, Loïc Frēchette, and Maïka Frēchette; her sister, Tina Ekstrom; and her dear friend Mark Rowley (Cindy). She is also survived by her good friends Fran Maxwell and Helen Saulnier; her aunt and uncle, Elvina and Bev Mullin; and her bonus son, Dave Clark. She will also be remembered by her cousins Jim Bursey, Greg Bursey, and Carolyn Burns, as well as her special cousin Cheryl McQuinn, who held a particularly meaningful place in her life.

In addition to her parents, Fay was predeceased by her brother, Wayne Ekstrom; her uncle, Harold Bursey; and her grandmother, Gladys Bursey.

Fay worked for many years at Marshalls as a fitting room attendant, where her warm personality and friendly spirit made a lasting impression on both coworkers and customers alike. Born with scoliosis and standing just 4 feet 5 inches tall, Fay faced life’s challenges with remarkable strength. Her stature never defined her—she lived with courage, determination, and a fierce independence that inspired those who knew her. She was never afraid of anything or anyone.

Fay truly loved people and had a natural way of brightening any room she entered. Her kindness, compassion, and welcoming spirit made her someone others were naturally drawn to. She had a deep love for animals, especially cats, which led her to volunteer with the Latimore Lake Cat Group, a cause that was close to her heart.

She also found joy in life’s quieter moments. Fay enjoyed knitting and spending time creating crafts using plastic canvas, a hobby that allowed her creativity and patience to shine through in the pieces she lovingly made.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Fundy Funeral Home, 230 Westmorland Road, Saint John, New Brunswick. In keeping with Fay’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at Ocean View Memorial Gardens in May. Please check back on our website for an updated date and time.

For those who wish, memorial donations in Fay’s memory may be made to the Latimore Lake Cat Group.