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DEBORAH MAE THIBODEAU
It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Deborah Mae Thibodeau (Hendry) on July 6, 2026, at Grace Hospice in Winnipeg, next door to the very place where she was born March 16, 1955, at Grace Hospital.
Deb was raised in Selkirk, Manitoba and was the eldest of the late Sylvia & Don Hendry. She was predeceased by her brother Donald and is lovingly remembered by her siblings Karen, Wanda, and Wayne with whom she shared a lifetime of love, laughter and unwavering support. She treasured her “Nip & Chips” with Karen and Wanda and shared an especially close and cherished bond with her brother Wayne. She also held a special place in her heart for her nieces Bailey & Carley as well as her Uncle Charlie.
Above all else, Deb was devoted to her family. She leaves behind her children Michelle, Jeff, Amy, and Lee. She was predeceased by her grandson, Josh and is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren Rylee, Cooper, Hudson and Halle, each of whom brought immeasurable joy to her life.
A strong and courageous woman, Deb met life’s challenges with resilience, grace and unconditional love. She dedicated many years to caring for others through her work in care homes and later, St. Amant Centre where she served as a Support Worker. She often spoke of the meaningful relationships she built and the privilege of caring for others. Parkinson’s disease led to an early retirement, allowing her to fully embrace her favorite role – being “Nan”.
Whether proudly cheering from the sidelines, playing boardgames, puzzles, “cars”, planting flowers, enjoying music, or sharing her remarkable knowledge of pop culture, Deb found joy in life’s simple moments and in the people she loved.
She also held lifelong friendships close to her heart, especially with Terri, Jorunn, & Audrey and her cousin Monique. Along with her family even in her final days at Grace Hospice, they filled her room with laughter, stories, memories and love – a beautiful reminder that true friendship and family connections never fade.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at Grace Hospice for the exceptional care while helping Deb face cancer with dignity, comfort and her beautiful smile. A private celebration of life will be held with her immediate family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Parkinson Canada or CancerCare Manitoba.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 11, 2026
