The death of Willa Jean Bateman of Lower Millstream, NB occurred at her residence on September 13, 2008 at the age of 88. Born at Waterford, NB a daughter of the late Edwin and Althea (Wallace) McEwen. Jean is survived by her daughter Sandra Reed of Fredericton, sons; Donald Crothers and wife Margaret of Lower Millstream and George Crothers and wife Sylvia of Saint John, two step-daughters, Priscilla Brydges and husband Gary of Oromocto and Joyce Folkins and husband Doug of New Hampshire, five grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren and five step grandchildren and a sister Olive Weatherhead of Sussex. She was predeceased by her parents, first husband Murray Crothers, second husband Albert Bateman, an infant son Edwin Murray Crothers, son-in-law Paul Reed, sisters; Maisie Crothers and Alma Gulliver and brothers Harvey and Ora McEwen. Jean attended the Lower Millstream United Church, was a life member of the Lower Millstream UCW as well as the Women’s Institute. She was a dedicated grandmother, enjoyed keeping house and loved cats. She enjoyed card parties, quilting, knitting, crocheting, reading and doing crosswords. The family will receive visitors at the Sussex Select Community Funeral Home, 21 Aiton Road Sussex (506-433-2133) on Monday from 2-4 and 7-9PM. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday September 16, 2008 at the Lower Millstream United Church at 11:00AM with Linda Fuller RDLM officiating. Interment will take place at Trinity Cemetery, Sussex Corner. Donations made to the Lower Millstream United Church, the Sussex Health Centre Diagnostic Imaging or the charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated.