Elizabeth Gertrude Gallagher

February 6, 1939 – October 8th, 2026

It is with deep love and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Elizabeth Gertrude Gallagher, born February 6, 1939, in Newfoundland. Elizabeth was predeceased by her parents, Frank Powell and Mary Powell, her beloved husband Raymond Gallagher, and her son Tony Gallagher.

Elizabeth is also predeceased by her brothers Fred Powell, Don Powell, and Alex Powell her Sisters Margaret Powell, and Edith Tibbitts. She is predeceased as well by Fred’s wife Arlene Powell, and Edith’s husband John Tibbitts. Elizabeth is survived by her sister Barbara Hutchings her husband George Hutchings, her brother Joe Powell and his wife Norma Powell, and Don’s wife Alison Powell.

Elizabeth leaves behind her son Christopher Gallagher, his wife Jana Gallagher, and their children Patrick and Stella Gallagher; She is survived by Tony’s wife Erica Gallagher and their daughter Erin and her daughter Catherine Gillingham, her husband Maurice Gillingham, and their children Emily and Liam Gillingham. Large circle of nieces nephews, and friends across Canada and the USA.

Elizabeth began her professional life in healthcare, serving from 1959 to 1973 as an operating room nurse at the old General Hospital in St. John’s, where she became known for her skill, steadiness, compassion and leadership. In April 1997, she was appointed Sergeant-at-Arms for the Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly — a historic appointment that made her the first woman in the province (and the second in Canada) to hold the role. She went on to serve with distinction for approximately 14 years, becoming one of the longest-serving female Sergeants-at-Arms in a Canadian legislature and in the Commonwealth, carrying out her duties with dignity, fairness, and unwavering commitment to public service.

Eight years ago, Elizabeth moved from Newfoundland to Toronto to be closer to her grandchildren. She devoted the final chapter of her life to them with joy, pride, boundless love and never-ending chocolate. The grandkids loved playing cards with her, drawing pictures for her and making each other laugh with silly jokes and stories. She always lit up whenever her grandchildren were around her.

Elizabeth will be remembered for her strength, her trailblazing spirit, her sharp wit, and her unwavering devotion to her family.

A service will be held in St. John’s Newfoundland, on Saturday November 14th at Carnell's Chapel at 11:00 am ( NST).