It was with a heavy heart that we announced the passing on Sunday, April 30, 2023 of Life Member Jaqueline "Jackie" Ralston. She passed away following a brief illness in her 74th year.
Jackie was part of the fabric of Branch 60 for almost 50 years. She joined the Legion in 1976 and went on to serve in numerous capacities including 1st, 2nd and 3rd Vice President, Youth Education Chair, Zone Youth Education Chair, District Bursary Chair, Zone Deputy, Zone Commander and as President of the Branch 60 Ladies Auxiliary from 1989-1994. She also served as the Branch Army Liaison Officer and was in charge of the Charity Bingo program for many years. During the annual Poppy Campaign, Jackie helped organize the Cadets to canvass, delivered counter boxes and helped count the funds as they poured in.
Jackie was the "go to person" as she was a wealth of knowledge on anything Legion related.
As a trained chef and willing volunteer, she cooked and organized countless dinners and social events on behalf of the Branch. Her efforts provided funds for the Branch and contributed to the goodwill of our members and a close relationship with the citizens of Burlington who frequent our Branch for meals and entertainment.
Jackie joined the Ladies Auxiliary and served as Secretary, President and Treasurer. She has served as Zone B6 Commander of the Ladies Auxiliary and worked tirelessly to promote a successful partnership between the Branch and the LA. Most recently, she has served as Secretary of Branch 60.
Among her many Honours and Awards, she received a Life Membership in 2010.
President Murray Sutherland said "The passing of Jackie Ralston is a great loss to not only Burlington Branch 60, but to the entire Legion community. In my first year as President, it was Jackie who provided guidance on Legion protocol, which allowed me to function effectively as a first year President. Her knowledge of all the Legion was invaluable. Her tireless effort and knowledge will be greatly missed by Branch 60 and me personally. I express my personal condolences to her husband Bill and family."
A Celebration of Life and Legion Service was held at Branch 60 on Saturday, June 10, 2023. Photos can be seen HERE.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Royal Canadian Legion Ontario Command Bursary Fund.