In Loving Memory of Bernadette “Dee Dee” Keating -- 1946 – 2025 

Bernadette “Dee Dee” Mary Keating of Miramichi, New Brunswick, passed away at Bridgeview Hall, Shannex on August 24, 2025, at the age of 79.

Born in Chatham, New Brunswick, on August 16, 1946, she was the daughter of the late Joe and Molly (Creighton) Keating.

Bernadette is the composer, writer and singer of the Escuminac Disaster Song.

As quoted by Dr. Louise Manny: In 1959 Bernadette Keating of Chatham was thirteen years old. She composed the words and music of her own song, the most beautiful of all the tributes to the heroism of the fishermen. It was very touching to see the child, in her simple schoolgirl's dress, sharing her own deep emotion with a hushed audience.

Dee Dee had an amazing story of a beautiful lady with courage and stamina to get through life’s troubles. She was so generous and thoughtful towards her family. Her independence was her joy. She was very responsible, serious, religious, kind, truthful and faithful. She had a true love for animals. Completely honest and sincere.  

Dee Dee loved her family, a Tim Horton’s Coffee and having family and friends drop by for a visit were some of the high lights of her life. Although she had many insecurities in life, she was able to manage very well on her own. She was very sensitive and observant and didn’t ‘Miss a Trick’. She’s ‘Our Hero’! With love from all your family.

Dee Dee is survived by her five sisters: Lillian Barry (late Jack) of Miramichi, Joan Arsenault (late Derrill) of Bathurst, Joyce McGrath (Tom) of Miramichi, Marilyn Duffey (Bob) of Miramichi and Mary Keating of Miramichi; one brother, Bernard Keating (late Patsy) of Miramichi; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, brothers: Billy and John Keating and sister, Audrey Cormier.

Visitation will be held at Adams Funeral Home, 140 King St., Miramichi on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Michael’s Basilica, 10 Howard St., Miramichi on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 11:00 AM with The Reverend Father Antonio Reyes as Celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Michael’s Cemetery.

As expressions of sympathy, donations to a charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family

Arrangements are entrusted to Adams Funeral Home Ltd., 140 King St., Miramichi, telephone (506) 773-3492. Additionally, messages of condolence may be shared online at www.adamsfh.ca