On Sunday, September 7, families and friends gathered under sunny skies at St. Simon and St. Jude Cemetery in Belle River to celebrate its 200th anniversary with a special outdoor Mass. Officiated by Bishop Ronald P. Fabbro of London, the service honored the cemetery’s deep spiritual and historical significance.
“This is a milestone for both the Parish and the Diocese,” said Bishop Fabbro. “St. Simon and St. Jude is one of the earliest Parishes in our region, and as settlers arrived, more Parishes followed to meet growing needs.”
Founded in 1825 through the generosity of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Reaume, the cemetery began as a small parcel of land in Maidstone Township. Over the years, additional land was donated and purchased, expanding the site to its current location on County Road 42. A log chapel once stood on the grounds, serving as the Belle River Mission, which evolved into the Mission of St. Jude. By 1848, a frame church and residence were built with community support, serving both French and English parishioners.
In 1869, Bishop Walsh officially opened and blessed a new church, and Father Jahan added the name of St. Simon to St. Jude, establishing the cemetery’s current identity. The Diocese of London later created a Care and Maintenance Fund to ensure its long-term preservation.
The cemetery has grown into a sacred and serene space, divided into eight sections including the Historical Section, the Little Angel Section for infants, and six columbaria. Beautification efforts have transformed the grounds with flower beds, benches, stained-glass windows, and a commemorative monument marking the bicentennial.
General Manager Thérèse Papineau, who oversees daily operations, expressed gratitude for the community’s support. “The crowd today was amazing,” she said. “We thank everyone who helped make this day special, including the Knights of Columbus, Belle River Royal Canadian Legion, the Cemetery Board, and sponsors like Melady Funeral Home.”
The cemetery’s legacy is upheld by generations of dedicated workers and board members. From grave openers like Thomas Renaud and Marcel St. Pierre to groundskeepers such as Jerry and Helen Best and Jim and Eileen Deschaine, their contributions have kept the site well-maintained and welcoming.
Several priests have served the cemetery over the years, including Fr. Gerard Bédard, Fr. Gerry Campeau, and Fr. Chris Gillespie. Their spiritual leadership has helped preserve the cemetery’s role as a place of reverence and reflection.
Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey, who attended the Mass, praised the event’s significance. “It was wonderful to see the community come together in celebration. The sense of history and unity here in Lakeshore is truly powerful.”
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