Gail French
May 17, 1962 to October 20, 2023
Obituary
The funeral service for Gail French will be livestreamed for those unable to attend.
Please click HERE to view the service
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gail French on Friday, October 20th, following a two-year battle with breast cancer.
Predeceased by her parents, Blanche (Knee) and Raymond Nicholas French, she leaves behind endless memories for her daughter Alison, who was the light of her life; brothers Dwight (Colleen), Derrick (Marie), and Keith (Elaine); nieces and nephews Jackie, Gary, Nicole, Nathan, Chloe, Kate, Patrick, Alexander, and Zachary; special family and friends Sharon, Bev, Gemma and John; lifelong friends Jackie, Ann, Wendy, Edwina, Ruth (deceased) and Barb (deceased); along with a large circle of treasured family and friends, including childhood friends from Smith Avenue, the Eastport gang and the volleyball community.
Gail conquered so much in her 61 years. She owned and operated Contemporary Florist for 35 years in St. John’s, and in true entrepreneurial spirit, was taking business calls late into her last hours. She put everything into her craft and this was reflected in the loyal clientele, with whom she developed lifelong relationships, both in and out of the shop.
She was a successful volleyball player, playing well into her fifties, and touched many hearts as a coach at St. Paul’s Junior High. She also treasured her weekends at the cabin in Brigus Junction and spent many mornings sipping coffee by the pond.
Gail’s greatest joy and accomplishment by far was being a mother to her daughter Alison. She never missed an opportunity to boast about her, and her face radiated pride and love whenever she mentioned Alison’s name. She was a devoted sister, sister-in-law and aunt and took on the role as matriarch of the family when her mother passed away. She was one of the greatest cheerleaders for all her nieces and nephews and was a fiercely loyal friend.
The family would like to thank the medical professionals from the Dr. H Bliss Murphy Cancer Centre, her oncologists Dr. Renee Lester and Dr. Joy McCarthy, Dr. Jennifer Stender, and especially Lori Metcalfe from Community Health who went above and beyond to care for Gail, as well as the palliative care staff at the Miller Centre who ensured she was comfortable on her last day.
To celebrate Gail’s life, visit Carnell’s Funeral Home, 329 Freshwater Road, on Wednesday, October 25th from 2-4 PM and 6-9 PM. Funeral service will be held from the Carnell Memorial Chapel on Thursday, October 26th at 11 AM, with a burial to follow at the Anglican Cemetery, Kenmount Road.
As a tribute to Gail’s 35 years in the floral industry, flowers are gratefully accepted and encouraged.
Schedule
Visitations
2-4 p.m. on October 25, 2023
6-9 p.m. on October 25, 2023
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
funeral
11:00am, Thursday October 26th
The Carnell Memorial Chapel
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
As a childhood friend of Dwight’s, I spent years in love with Gail! Pretty, athletic, out-going, daring, and with a real force of personality – how could I not be smitten by her?
I moved away and hadn’t seen Gail for 40 years. During my visit In July, I saw a news story about her and decided to drop into Contemporary Florists. Not having been a bald and goateed kid, she didn’t recognize me. But when I complained that she hadn’t fulfilled her 45-year-old promise, made while sitting on the steps of 10 Smith Avenue, to show up on her motorcycle when I was 40 and whisk me away from a boring married life, she responded with, “Dave Bartlett?!?” We only spoke briefly, but it didn’t feel like there was a decades-long gap between us. I was so pleased to see she still had that youthful sparkle in her eyes!
Dwight, Keith, Derrek, I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and your families.
We just heard the very sad news of Gail’s passing. We owned a home for 7 years in the special little Cul-de-sac that is Kirke Place. Our daughter Emma played on the Seahawks volleyball team with Alison for one year and I remember sitting in the stands with Gail cheering them on. She was so proud of Alison and her many accomplishments. We spoke to her this past spring and she told us of her battle to overcome cancer. I’m so sad to know that she lost her fight. Her beautiful smile will be missed. Sending our deepest condolences to Alison, her family and friends.
I’m so sorry to hear of Gails passing.
I worked with Gail many years ago at Howse of Flowers. She was a wonderful person to work with. Always with a smile and just such a sweet lovely lady.
To Alison and the family…. Please accept my sincere condolences for the loss of your Mom. I worked in Contemporary Florist for over a year and we rubbed along together quite well. We did have many chuckles and both of us loved flowers – a real bond! Her gift of arranging them was a most amazing and enjoyable event to watch….. she taught me a lot too:)
I was astounded and saddened when I heard of Gail dying at such a young age…. her memories are what will be so precious for you as time moves along. Stay strong…💖
Mom and I were shocked and saddened to hear of Gail’s passing. I have many memories of Gail on Smith Avenue, from my first game of Monoply to discovering apple flips! We were gratified to be able to access the service online and have the opportunity to offer our deepest sympathy..
To Gail’s family,
I’m so sorry to hear of Gail’s passing. I was a longtime customer of hers, beginning in the Military Road days, and continuing right through to Hamilton Avenue. Gail was a unique and beautiful person, and her floral creations were always exactly what I wanted. She had an uncanny ability to know that. My deepest sympathies to all who loved her. ♥️
To Gail’s family, lifelong friends, and those who knew her, I was so sorry to hear about Gail’s passing. I hope your beautiful times together and her memory gives you some comfort during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Oh my, I just found out about Gail’s passing and although I have not seen or heard of her for decades now I still feel a loss of someone I remember fondly.
Gail was a sweet person as I remember back in junior high school where we met so long ago.
May her memories be a blessing to all who knew and loved Gail.
To all her loved her dearly,
Her smile lit up every room she entered, and I have wonderful memories of conversations we shared. I was very saddened to hear of her passing.
The French Family
Please accept my condolences on the passing of Gail.
I knew Gail from high school and playing in the volleyball league at Holy Heart. Always so friendly and a beautiful smile.
Prayers and thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.
Susan Flynn and family .
To Gail’s Family. I’m so very sorry to hear of Gail’s passing. My condolences. I met Gail in grade 7 at Bishop Abraham and on thru till grade 9. From the first time I met her in the gym, she resonated with laughter and a fantastic personality. I used to bump into her in later years and we would have a chat and catch up, Gail never disappointed in conversation or laughter. She was one of a kind and will truly be missed by all. I also had numerous occasions to deal with her at the flower shop, forgetting that we were junior high friends she was on her game with arrangements ever time. You will always be wonderfully remembered Gail. Rest easy sweet child. 🙏
Alison and French family – I’m just hearing of Gail’s passing. Gone so young. I met her through her store and her late ex-husband many moons ago. She always had a smile and did many floral arrangements for us over the years! RIP Gail and soar with the angels now. 🌻
To all the French family so sorry for your loss of a great sister and mother. May her soul rest in peace
Cavell knee-Greene
So sad to hear of Gail’s passing. We became friends in junior high school and remained friends for many years. Although we lost touch in recent years, I often thought of her and kept informed of her life through our mutual circle of friends. She will always hold a special place in my heart. God bless her.
I was so saddened to hear of Gail’s passing. We were Volleyball friends and saw a lot of each other when we played at Holy Heart, but as the league grew and the venues changed, we didn’t cross paths. It was a pleasure to play with/against her. Always had a smile while on the courts. My condolences to Gail’s family.
Alison, So sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time.
So so sorry for your loss. May your Mom RIP.
Our deepest condolences to Alison and family.
Gail will be remembered because of her radiant smile and truly for being a remarkable, talented, and kind woman.. So Sad for your loss but all thoughts of Gail come with a smile and surely she is still smiling as she watches over her loved ones during her new journey.
Derrick, Dwight and the French Family
So sorry to hear of Gail’s passing. Nancy and I send our sincere condolences to both of you and the French family. Our thoughts are with you at this very difficult time.
Alison,
We are so truly sorry to hear of the loss of your Mom. Sending deepest sympathy! Our thoughts are with you, Evan & your family!
Sincerely
Bev & Jim Colbert
Alison,
we are so very sorry for the loss of your mother. We got to know your mom through our times at the skating rink and on many soccer fields over the years. We have fond memories of her on an under 12 soccer trip to Nova Scotia. It was obvious how proud she was of you.
Rest in peace, Gail.
Marie Donovan, Colin Dyer, Kathleen Dyer
Alision,& the French Family, I am very sorry to hear of Gail’s passing.. May your Wonderful Memories of her give you Comfort in the days ahead. Our Deepest Sympathy. Betty Lou (Knee ) & Everett Russell
Alison, Dwight and The rest of the French family, our deepest condolences on Gail’s passing. We met both Alison and Gail through St. Paul’s sports. Gail was the volleyball coach and my daughter was just learning to really play volleyball. Gail took her under her wing and taught her some of the finer points of volleyball. Gail was a kind, considerate and funny person. She will be missed.
Karen and Shannon Keough
To the French family;
I am so very sorry for your loss. I knew Gail through her business as we have purchased Christmas centrepieces for our company from her for more than 20 years.. she was always so pleasant…a joy to deal with. I was never disappointed with her work. I will miss her call next month checking as to whether we want to preorder..
Take care and God Bless.
Judi Howell (Redwood Construction)
Jackie and Allison your mom was very king lady, she did a beautiful arrangement of flowers for my mother in January and delivered them herself, that kindness well always stay with me. Jackie your best friend well always be remembered. Rest in
peice Gail 🙏
Derrick, Dwight and Keith, I am so very sorry to learn of Gail’s passing. She was taken far too soon and she will be incredibly missed. My heart hurts for you all. 💔 Godspeed.
Ali, there are no words to ease your sorrow, but I know you knew how much you were loved. I knew off your mother since I was a teenager, because of her athletic skills from a competing school. I had the pleasure to meet her again in my early 20s and saw first hand what a lovely lady she was. I didn’t cross paths again till you were in St. Paul’s . Her kindness and positive attitude was contagious and I am blessed I got to experience it first hand. She brought me back to playing Volleyball in my 50s, and we had many laughs together. I loved when I would run into her, or talk to her when I would have opportunity to order flowers from her, and could catch up, which always included what you were up to. She touched many lives and made a positive impact that will be remembered for years to come. Please accept my sincerest condolences on your tremendous loss .
Derrick and family
So sorry to hear of Gail’s passing. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Janet and Carl LeDrew
To the French family;
So sorry to hear of Gail’s passing.
Please accept our deepest sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
Audrey Maher & family
So sorry to hear of Gail’s passing. I knew her from my early school days and living on Grenfell Ave. Gail’s smile was infectious and beautiful. She was a wonderful perso.n. Condolences to all of her family and friends at this sad time.
To the French Family;
We were so saddened to hear of Gail’s passing on Friday. The last time we spoke she had finished her treatments, was feeling great and was looking forward to her next chapter.
We dealt with Gail for 25 years or more for our family funerals, our family weddings and also all our Company yearly arrangements.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. She will be missed.
Stephanie and Mike Head
Cardinal Homes Limited
Derrick, Marie and Families. So sorry to hear of Gail’s passing – she was always so very sweet and kind. I dealt with Gail on numerous occasions for floral arrangements and she always came through no matter what. Condolences to all who knew and loved her. RIP Gail xo
Gail was a very beautiful and gifted lady. Always greeted folks with that big smile and a chuckle. that’s how we will always remember her … our sincere condolences to Alison and the French family … RIP beautiful friend
Keith, Dwight, Derek and families. Sending sincere condolences on the loss of your sister, mom and aunt. As one of the Smith Avenue kids, I remember Gail as always smiling, happy and so friendly as she was coming and going enjoying being a teenager. Over the years since, it was so nice to see Gail at the shop and catch up on all of the latest with the French families. Hold tight to all of the happy memories during this difficult time.
Alison, Derrick, Dwight, Keith. & families:
My heartfelt sympathy to you all.
I am blessed to have had Gail in my life. Many people have commented that when they think of me, she also comes to mind. I’ve known her longer than my husband. I met Gail in high school. She had that easy going way that brought a shy girl like Ann Kelland out of her shell. In many ways we were polar opposites but she took me under her wing. She made friends easily and if her many friends wrote a book, the theme of each version would be love. Agape love for you sweet Alison, family, friends, neighbors, staff, community, nature and life. She generously shared her table and brought people together. Her cup spilled over with love. She worked hard and played hard always looking her glamorous self (as Miss Abraham should). She kept this pace right until the end, as sick as she was. I think that’s why it seems surreal. Thank you to her family and friends that took great care of her on this journey. I know she appreciated it. A life well lived Gail my friend! Heaven has gained a special angel. Forever in our hearts. Love Ann, Ralph, Natalie, Michelle & Caroline. xo
To Alison, the French families and Gail’s many
friends….Please accept .our heartfelt condolences on the loss of your beautiful Mom, sister, aunt and friend. Gail’s smile always filled any room she entered and her kindness and positivity remained long after she left. Her love for you Alison, was immeasurable. What an amazing gift you shared in your love for each other! Cherish your many beautiful memories and know that the newest and brightest shining star in the sky is that incredible life force, who continues to watch over you…….just from a different place. Rest well beautiful lady. ❤❤
Still difficult to comprehend. I’ve known Gail all my life and she always, always had that smile! We worked together at Howse of Flowers before she took the plunge and opened her own shop. She gave her all and she will be so missed. Rest in peace Gail.
I was saddened to hear of Gail’s passing. I grew up with her on Smith Avenue and have such wonderful memories of our younger years together. Just hanging out on the street, playing spotlight at night, kick the can and so many other games. While I may have moved away from NL 35+ years ago, I still had a connection to Gail as she was the person that I would reach out to for flowers. My heart goes out to her family on the loss of such a wonderful person. While she is gone too soon, she will remain in the hearts of those she has left behind. Cathy Lantos
TO DERICK AND FAMILY SO SORRY TO HERE OF YOUR SISTER PASSING MAY SHE REST IN PEACE
So sad to hear of Gail’s passing, we went to high school together and played on the Booth volleyball team. Gail was always the spirit of the team, so kind and full of fun. Heaven has gained a special angel. Condolences to Alison and family, may your special memories comfort you.
Keith, Dwight, Derrick and family….so sorry to hear of Gail’s passing….. time with neighbours always holds special places in our memories…. my thoughts are with you all…
To Gail’s Daughter & family: : I was so sorry to read of Gail’s passing. We met at the cancer clinic a year or so ago. When we made her connection to Winterton we both knew many of the same people. It was my pleasure to talk to this beautiful lady. We messaged a couple of times after. I will uphold you all in my prayers as you go through this very difficult time.
Allison
Sorry to hear about your mother’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
I’m heartbroken to hear this news. I worked for Gail for many years, popping in for holidays and I was always welcomed with a great big smile. Gail’s big heart shone, and she will be so missed. Alison, I’m so very sorry for your loss.
Allison & the French families,
So saddened to hear of your mom’s passing., I took care of you for several mths after you were born & got to know her very well. She was such a hard worker, but at the end of her shift she came through the door with such a smile on her face & she would look at you Allison with such adoration, your mother was beautiful inside & out. Please accept my condolences Allison to you & the French families. I will keep you all in my prayers now & in the difficult days ahead.. Hold your memories close to your heart!
Gail was a mentor to me, taught me floral design – which I went on to win a second in the worlds in Ireland . Passionate about floral design, passionate about Alison. She was lovely, always there to help, and of course to create the perfect design including all the elements of floral design! I have much respect for Gail.
My condolences to Alison and family. She was vibrant and beautiful! ❤️
Derrick and Family
So truly sorry to hear of Gail’s passing. She was such a
beautiful person and we have fond memories of her..Please know you are in our thioughts and prayers
at this difficult time.
Lynda and Reg Morgan
Derrick, Marie, and the French family.
Deepest condolences on the passing of your sister. It’s never easy to loose a sibling.
Alison deepest condolences on the passing of your mom.
Hope you all choose to use your happy memories of her to help ease the sorrow in your hearts today.
I have known Gail since her early days of Contemporary Florist on Military Rd. but our real connection was Junior High Volleyball. Gail was a wonderful coach and mentor to the many girls that had never played before. There were lots of road trips and weekend tournaments and Gail gave it her all with the most beautiful smile.
Allison, please know I am so very sorry for your immense loss and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Dwight. I am so sorry for the loss of your sister. As a repeat customer of her amazing work I can say not only was she truly talented but also a lovely person. My condolences to your family.
Derrick and all other family members:
Very sorry to hear of Gail’s passing. The French family have always been friends and family to us for generations. Continue to be inspired by Gail’s beautiful life
Please accept our condolences. Marie-Beth Wright & Carl
We were so saddened to hear of Gail’s passing. We went to school with Gail and will always remember the beautiful person she was. Always smiling, laughing, kind, smart and a great athlete.
RIP Gail. The heavens have gained a beautiful angel
So sorry for your loss. I played volleyball against, and with Gail, for many years. She had an infectious spirit, and a great love of life. Hers has ended much too soon. Cherish her memory and she will live in your hearts forever.
Allison so sorry to hear about your mom’s passing ,Alex was so lucky to have her in his life he always considered her his second mom ! And never missed a visit with you guys when he travelled to StJohns She will truly be missed sending love and prayers to all your family 🙏
Allison, Derrick, Dwight and Keith, Please accept sincere condolences on the passing of Gail, such a lovely person especially to all the Smith Avenue people who were blessed by her presence. . I will never forget her kindness to my mother with here personal delivery of flowers from my daughter. She carried on the legacy of her parents who also shed kindness and compassion where ever they went
It is our prayer that she will rest in peace and one day rise in glory
Adrian Heffernan
I’ve known Gail since the early days of elementary school and we were neighbours all growing up ( Grenfell Ave.) and as well into adult life we still hung around together and were always in the same loop of friends , one of my fondest memorys of Gail is during ice skating down at the St.Johns Stadium, myself and her could skate around that ice arm in arm and go around that ice as if we were professional skaters, she always as usual had that big smile on her face . Rest in Peace my old friend and I promise we will skate again at another time and place . 🙏🥰
We are so saddened to hear of Gail’s passing. We grew up together on Smith Avenue and there was a lot of games played. Kick the Can, spotlight, red rover and the girls had a great chat playing Jacks and Barbie were just some of the good times we all spent together. Even back then, Gail had her beautiful smile. As we all left Smith Avenue we continued to see each other on occasion. One such occasion was in 1989. Gail did my wedding flowers. I told her the colours I wanted for my bouquet and boy did she deliver. She worked her magic It was and still is the most beautiful bouquet of flowers I have ever had. She had quite a talent. Gail always spoke of Alison with such love and pride. Our sincere condolences to Alison, Derrick, Dwight, Keith and families & friends.
Keep smiling Gail.
💐🪻🌺
Deepest sympathy to all of Gail’s loved ones- she was always so lovely to me during my Niece,Barb Garland’s journey with Cancer. She was a good friend to Barb. Rest well Gail in the arms of the Lord.Gone but never forgotten.
Alison: I have known your mother since her first shop on military road. We were related and had many conversations about the French family. She was a super businesswoman and there is much to admire. We will keep you and your mother in our thoughts and prayers..
Alison : we were so saddened to learn of your mother’s passing. Please our thoughts and prayers are with you. May her soul R.I.P..
Alison, I first met you at the flower shop…Gail was beaming when she introduced you to me. I first met Gail through Jackie, when we were teenagers growing up in the same neighbourhood. We reconnected years later playing Volleyball and she was my ‘go to’ for floral arrangements. I remember well how she recreated my bridal bouquet when I wanted to get some professional wedding pictures done after eloping. What a wonderful person she was.. Her picture here is perfect, that smile, that happy radiance. Condolences to all the family 💐
Peace at last.
We were saddened to learn of Gail’s passing and the realization that our Smith Avenue extended “family” has now lost another member much to soon. When our parents passed we accepted it because of their ages. . But Gail’s age and excitement for life makes it difficult to understand
Gail was always a pleasure to meet and like many others our go to person for flowers for all our special occasions and especially if we had an intricate request. Nothing was too much to ask it was always “Yes, that’s no problem”
When my niece set up a monthly delivery to my Mom in long term care, Gail would personally deliver them to her room so she could say hello and check in! Mom was always excited to say Gail had brought them in herself.
With heartfelt sympathy to Allison,Derrick,Dwight and Keith. I’m sure you’ll feel the presence of her love, and guidance each time you see something she touched or nurtured. May the heartache and emptiness you feel today become smiles recalling the many many wonderful memories of happier times you shared with her.
RIP Gail💕🌷
Alison,
Sending my deepest condolences to you and your family. Your mum was always so kind to me when she would drop you off and pick you up at the dancing school on Saturdays when you were little. She was a genuine ray of light. Keeping you in my thoughts.
Alison and Family,
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of Gail. As neighbours on Kirke Place we will remember her friendly easy smile, and her pride in her beautiful property. She spoke of you glowingly, Alison. It has also been apparent that she enjoyed a strong and caring group of family and close friends, especially when she needed them most. Although we are unable to attend her events due to a just discovered exposure to Covid, last evening, please know you are all in our thoughts as you gather your precious memories.
Judy and Robert Puddester.
Derrick and family, so sorry to hear of Gail’s passing.
Please accept our condolences, and know that our prayers and thoughts are with you all.
To the entire family, I am so sorry and shocked to hear of your loss. Gail and I grew up together on Smith Avenue. I moved away 30 years ago but she was always our go to for flowers which kept a small connection. She just delivered my flowers for my birthday in August down at Quidi Vidi and I was so excited to see her. I reminded her of the time we slept out in Jackie’s camper and snuck out to walk into the Avalon Mall at the circus to meet a boy she thought was cute haha, now that wasn’t yesterday. She was such a beautiful person. Cherish all the beautiful memories. Rest in Peace Gail – Karen Young
Alison,
Our condolences on the loss of your mom. We all met way back at the daycare centre . Your mom was sweet and loved you so much . May the wonderful memories that you hold in your heart help during these difficult days.
The Wongs