With gratitude for a life deeply lived in faith, scholarship, courage, and quiet compassion, we announce the passing of

Rev. Dr. Linda Spear, RCWP

Linda died peacefully on February 20, 2026, at Hôpital Brome-Missisquoi-Perkins in Cowansville, Québec, at the age of 85.

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to John Spear and Mary-Ena Lawler, Linda felt called to priesthood from the age of four — a calling that stayed with her, steady and faithful, throughout her life.

A devoted scholar and teacher, Linda earned advanced degrees in medieval history and pastoral studies, including a PhD from the University of Toronto. She taught and served in Manitoba, Ontario, and Québec, concluding her teaching career at CEGEP Champlain St-Lambert. Ordained in 2010 through the Roman Catholic Women Priests movement, she courageously advocated for inclusion and equality within the Church she deeply loved. Even in retirement in Sutton, she remained engaged in pastoral care and ecumenical dialogue.

At the center of her personal life was her beloved partner, Jacqueline Amyot-Jeffery (1930–2016). Their love was steadfast and tender. During Jacqueline’s long illness, Linda cared for her with devotion and strength — an expression of love that defined her.

She leaves behind her cherished sisters, Janet Cutler and Marnie (Monique) Dubinski, with whom she shared lifelong bonds.

Linda was also a gifted painter. In her art she found reflection, stillness, and joy. Through colour and light, she revealed the quiet depth of her spirit.

Animals were among her greatest comforts. Her cherished cat, Cricket, rarely left her side and brought her much companionship. Cricket will now be lovingly cared for by Lisa and Chris, whose kindness and support meant so much to Linda and who were so very good to her.

Linda loved the West and carried that independent and open spirit throughout her life. We will especially miss her happy, lighthearted, and quietly optimistic ways that brought warmth to those around her.

Linda extends heartfelt thanks to David Hastings and Annie Poulton for their kindness and care. A special thank you to all of her clubs and communities, who made Linda feel at home and welcomed her like family. Deep gratitude as well to Grace Anglican Church, Sutton — and to Rev. Tim Smart and Rev. Tyson Rosberg, the current priest — for their generosity over the years in welcoming her ministry and continuing to offer her a spiritual home. That community gave her belonging and peace.

Arrangements have been entrusted to: 

Complexe funéraire BROME-MISSISQUOI

402 rue de la Rivière

Cowansville, QC J2K 1N3

450-266-6061 /complexefuneraire.ca 
 

A visitation will be held on March 21 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at:

Grace Anglican Church

52 rue Principale sud, Sutton, Québec, J0E 2K0

In lieu of flowers, donations in Linda’s memory may be made to:

Grace Anglican Church, Sutton Roman Catholic Women Priests of Canada

https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/roman-catholic-women-priests-of-canada/

Cabane à Chat, Cowansville

Linda lived with conviction, loved with constancy, and gave of herself quietly and completely.

Her light remains in the lives she touched, and she will be deeply missed. 🤍