Janet “Gail” Lockhart passed away at home in Laird Township, Ontario, on November 1, 2024, at the age of 76, surrounded by love. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and love that will live on through her family and friends.
Gail is survived by her loving children Laurie (Dustin) Shaw, Derek (Lorna) Lockhart, and Jenny (Chris) Bubinas; her cherished grandchildren Andie Shaw, Ainslee Lockhart, Daley Shaw, and Reece Lockhart; her youngest sister, Lee (Brian) Prouten; and former husband, John "Layton" Lockhart. She was the beloved daughter of the late Nancy and Jim Prouten and the sister of the late Susan Bennett and her dear twin, Margaret Williams, and daughter-in-law to the late Violet and Everett Lockhart. Gail also found a second family in the Bubinas’—Richard, Janet, Brian, Andrea, Shaylan, Helena, and Henessey.
Gail’s life was devoted to nursing, a calling she answered with wholehearted dedication. Inspired by early experiences as a candy striper and nurse’s aide, she went on to acquire her LPN, RN and BSN over the span of her career. She began in pediatrics and later spanned a variety of roles that took her to the far north, including as a flight nurse, nurse practitioner, and as a charge nurse in Indigenous communities, where her compassion and skill touched countless lives. Her work in Leaf Rapids and her devotion to her patients in remote communities exemplified her commitment to helping others, and she carried her dedication through to her retirement from Health Canada.
Beyond her career, Gail had many passions. She was an avid runner and cross-country skier who enjoyed the tranquility of the Lost Haven trails in Leaf Rapids. A skilled knitter, and crocheter, Gail shared her love by making clothing and creating beautiful pieces for her family.
Gail's sister, Lee, reflected on their deepening bond, recalling how, over the years, Gail became her "big sister," a mentor, and a friend. Lee drew strength from Gail’s spirit and commitment to her work, especially her dedication to Indigenous communities, which inspired Lee’s own work with the Cree people in Northern Manitoba. Gail’s wisdom, kindness, and love left a profound impact that Lee and many others will cherish forever.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Gail’s dedicated home care team, Amy, Jessica, and Marcie, for their compassionate care and friendship, as well as Dr. Apostle, Dr. Voutsadakis, Nurse Sarah, and the staff of the Sault Area Hospital, Algoma District Cancer Program.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Gail’s memory may be made to Ovarian Cancer Canada, the Canadian Cancer Society, or a charity of your choice. Payable online or by cheque.
Cremation has taken place, and a private family remembrance will be held at a later date.
Gail was a remarkable person whose love for her family, community, and patients will live on in the lives she touched. She will be deeply missed.
“Let us never consider ourselves finished nurses, we must be learning all our lives” - Florence Nightingale.
Visit www.osullivanfuneralhome.com. to leave condolences for the family. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).