In Love of Leona NewKinga Simon

https://www.thompsonsfuneralhome.com/obituaries/180426?

Leona radiated with love; it would follow into every room she entered. Leona Newkinga Simon’s life was like the sacred journey of the salmon—navigating turbulent waters, yet always moving with

purpose, beauty, and a deep connection to her roots. Born of Mi'kmaq and Inuit heritage, Leona carried the legacy of her father, Newkinga, a renowned artist from Nunavut, and her Artistic mother, Dr. Andrea Simon, an artist and a wellspring of creativity. But Leona wasn’t just any artist. Like the salmon returning to its source, her work and her spirit flowed through the world, leaving behind ripples of inspiration, beauty, and love. She was commissioned by iconic figures like Buffy Sainte-Marie, Cindy Blackstock, and Jeremy Dutcher. Her medallion for the Red Shawl Campaign with MMIW stands as a symbol of her commitment to justice and her people.

No matter where in the world Leona's artistry took her, she always stayed close to her family. Like the salmon returning to the river, her heart was forever connected to her loved ones. Whether it was after ceremonies, at a gallery showing, or simply working on a new piece, Leona never lost touch with her roots. She was the embodiment of connection, love, and devotion—always ensuring that no matter where she went, she carried her family with her in spirit.

Beyond her artistry, Leona was famous for making the best frybread. There was always talk in the community about the long lines for her I’nu tacos, and though some joked about a "Frybread War," it was no exaggeration—people came from far and wide to taste her food. Her frybread fed so many, often for free, but Leona would never boast about it. She never sought recognition for her generosity. She quietly helped others, her heart full, knowing she had given what she could.

Much like the salmon swimming upstream, Leona’s life was marked by resilience. Her connection to the land and water was not just spiritual—it was personal. She protected it, advocated for it, and, in return, was nourished by it. Her role as a land defender and water protector mirrored the salmon’s relentless journey, always moving forward, always protecting the future for those to come.

Leona’s love for her community was as deep as any river. She cherished her family and the youth, especially. Like the salmon returning to its birthplace to ensure the future, Leona nurtured young people with such care that her eyes would sparkle every time one came near. She treated every child like a masterpiece, waiting to be revealed.

At the MMIW inquiry, Leona bravely shared her *Truth* about her Sogi (aunt), Gladys Marie Simon, who vanished one day from a hospital. She opened her heart to share about the impact of this loss on her family and her own emotional and mental health. In sharing her *Truth*, she didn’t just tell “a story”—she called for change. She demanded that Aboriginal mental health services be prioritized and taken seriously. Standing tall for us all, advocating the need for mental health and healing. Like the salmon swimming against the current, Leona’s voice rose in defiance of silence.

Yet, like the salmon swimming against the current, Leona faced challenges. With the pandemic came mental health issues, which she advocated so strongly for. She also faced physical challenges. Her family loved her, and no matter what, she always kept in touch with them. On September 18, after not hearing from Leona, her family alerted the authorities. Her friends and family endlessly searched for her. On September 24, her family was informed that Leona’s remains had been found. She had already started her spirit journey to the other side.

So much love, condolences, and kindness have been sent to Leona’s family, speaking of her good nature and her beautiful heart. Her story, like the salmon’s journey, may have come to an end, but has it really? Leona gently left gifts of advocacy, her love, teachings, strength, and the beauty of her artwork. It continues to flow like a river, nourishing all who remember her.

As we remember Leona, let us remember the lessons she embodied. Like the salmon, her life was a testament to the power of persistence, the beauty of selflessness, and the quiet strength that comes from staying true to oneself, no matter the cost.

Please consider helping her family through the GoFundMe page set up in her honor. Every little bit helps, and in doing so, we can ensure that Leona's final journey is as full of love as the life she lived.

Leona swam upstream her entire life, not because it was easy, but because it was who she was—strong, loving, determined. The salmon never falters, and neither did Leona.

Leona’s final arrangements have been entrusted with Thompson’s Funeral Home in Richibucto New Brunswick Canada.

The day of truth and reconciliation Monday September 30th visitation from 2-4 & 7-9 pm, Again on Treaty Day October 1rst Tuesday 2-4 & 7-9 pm. A Celebration of Leona’s life will be held on Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at 2pm. .