It is with very heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of our Jamie, cherished son of Geoff Erskine and Barbara Joe, and brother of Graham (Claire Burke) and Jennifer (Peter Blouw). His loss is also profoundly felt by his grandparents, Bill and June Joe, and Blair (late Lynn) Erskine and his adoring aunts and uncles and many cousins. He will also be sadly missed by his Joe, Erskine and Cheng extended families, across the world. Jamie was a close and loyal friend to many in Ottawa, Toronto, Calgary and Victoria.
Born and raised in Ottawa, Jamie attended Elgin, Hopewell, and Lisgar schools. He developed a keen interest in style and fashion, earning his Diploma in Fashion Management from George Brown College in Toronto and working for high end fashion stores including Holt Renfrew and Yves Saint Laurent for several years. He then returned to Ottawa to be closer to family and chart a new path.
Jamie filled his life with many activities, including hockey, sailing, baseball, volleyball, golf, skateboarding, rock climbing, skiing, pool, video games, photography, cottage life, finding great food, and so much more. His love of music continued to be a big part of his life, enjoying concerts, festivals and DJ’ing with friends, as well as creating his own music. He will be forever remembered for his warm smile that made everyone feel welcome and loved, his kind and caring heart, and his fun spirit of living life for today.
Family and friends are invited to Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, ON) for a Visitation on Thursday June 20, 2024, from 6 to 8pm and on Friday June 21, 2024, from 12 noon until the time of Service at 1 p.m. in Beechwood’s Sacred Space followed by a reception.
In lieu of flowers, donations to organizations supporting Health and Wellness would be appreciated, including The Ottawa Hospital Foundation, The Royal Ottawa, Rideauwood Addiction and Family Services or any other group you support.
May his smile live on in all of us.
Digital Guestbook
Ron & Cathy
Sylvia Smith
I am greatly saddened by hearing of the passing of James. I did not know him but I know members of his extended family. My heart goes out to you all, especially Barbara and Geoff. May you take comfort in the memories and the joy that Jamie brought into your lives.
Norman, Molly, Lauren and Nick
Images of Jamie entertaining us with the fabulous firework display at the last Ottawa Joe reunion still live in our memories. His sense of pride and satisfaction, and his smile are forever imprinted in our memory banks. Rest in Peace, Jamie.
Liam
Jamie was such an amazingly capable individual. His talents spanned fashion, music, business and sports, yet he was so humble. I feel lucky to have had him in my life and am truly thankful for the unwavering reliability, support and happiness he provided to all his friends. We love you Jamie.
Will
I am proud to have called Jamie one of my best friends. Deeply creative, ambitious, and talented, I couldn’t think of a better companion to have started and shared the post-secondary chapter of my life in Toronto. His collaborative and easygoing personality made him a natural hub that connected many different people together, enriching the lives of all he met. I’ve been introduced to many awesome friends through Jamie’s charm.
Among the many great and personal memories I have of Jamie, those that stick out the most are the ones where he flexed his creative mind and spirit. Assembling tracklists for DJ sets we would perform at Ryerson dorm parties in Pitman Hall. Him showing me designs and samples of fashion ideas that he made a reality. Discussing logistics for the online business he had set up with other buddies. Challenging my thinking on relationships and career during the many hot tub sessions we would have at my building’s pool.
Jamie made a profound impact on my life and I know his memory will live on in the hearts of many others. Rest In Peace, my dear friend.
Tobie Killam
Barb & Geoff,
My deepest sympathy for you and your family.
Christina
Jamie was an exceptionally kind and warm human being. He made everyone he came across feel seen. I’m heartbroken that such a vibrant person was taken from us so soon. I was Jamie’s classmate and friend at fashion school. In addition to being a creative and talented person, he was incredibly liked by everyone due to his genuine personality. I was new to Toronto at the time and didn’t have many friends. Jamie was one of only a few who celebrated my birthday with me. I’ll always remember him for being a true friend and making me feel a little less lonely in a new city.
Christina
Jamie was an exceptionally kind and warm human being. He had an effortless way of making everyone he knew and came across feel seen. I was Jamie’s classmate at fashion school and we became fast friends. He was incredibly well liked by everyone due to his genuine personality. In addition to being creative and having a keen eye for design, he was also an amazing friend. I was new to Toronto at the time and Jamie was one of the few people who celebrated my birthday with me. He made moving to a new place feel a little less lonely. I’m heartbroken that he is gone so soon and I will think of him forever.
Emily Brecher
Dear Barbara and family:
You and Jamie are in my heart and thoughts. I hope you can find some comfort in your many memories as a loving family, knowing that Jamie has had a lasting positive impact on all those around him.
With love and sincere condolences,
Emily (Brecher)
Dean Chamberlin
Barb, Geoff and family, my condolences, I am so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you.
We remember Jamie in our hearts forever. Visits to Holt Renfrew in Toronto, playing together in Ottawa Asian hockey tourney and enjoying banter at family gatherings. We love you Jamie and will miss you.