Lynette Hillier
September 7, 1976 to March 22, 2025
Obituary
To view the funeral service for Lynette Hillier on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at 11 a.m., please follow the link below:
Lynette Hillier Funeral Service
With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Lynette Hillier on March 22, 2025 after a long journey with cancer. She was surrounded by family and is survived by her husband Christopher Butt, parents Lionel and Nina (Regular), sister Crystal Hillier, special niece Amy Waterman, beloved beagle Obi, sister-by-choice Jill Handrigan, and wide circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, colleagues, and friends.
Lynette was born and raised in Labrador City. As an Acadia University alumna, she returned to Newfoundland and Labrador to continue graduate studies at Memorial University. She established a close knit community of friends and extended family in St. John’s and Mount Pearl. Her love of the arts, local small businesses, and non-profit organizations allowed her to connect with and support those who inspired her and who were, in turn, inspired by her. Her energy, intelligence, and kindness were admired by all who knew her. Lynette read voraciously, for pleasure and for work, enjoyed sharing meals with friends and family, and loved the simple pleasure of walking with her dog.
Lynette committed her entire professional life to healthcare philanthropy, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals. For the past 18 years, as the Executive Director of the Cancer Care Foundation, she was dedicated to raising funds to support cancer care in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Through unwavering dedication and the power of relationships, Lynette led transformative capital campaigns that brought crucial equipment to the Cancer Care Program ‒ radiation treatment machines, CT simulators, and, most recently, a new Chemotherapy Unit at the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Centre. Every campaign, every initiative, was a reflection of her deep commitment to making a difference for cancer patients in Newfoundland and Labrador.
But it was her own personal journey that fueled her relentless passion. After receiving her own cancer diagnosis, Lynette became an even fiercer advocate, deeply understanding the overwhelming impact cancer has on every aspect of life. Whether it was providing assistance to patients facing financial hardship or implementing programs offering resources, connection, and compassion, she worked tirelessly to ensure that cancer patients felt supported. Lynette’s legacy is one of profound impact and her work has forever transformed the landscape of cancer care and philanthropy in the province.
Lynette was a force of nature ‒ a woman whose strength, grace, and resilience will be remembered by all who had the privilege and honour to know her.
The family wishes to thank the faithful medical professionals who supported Lynette in her cancer journey: a dedicated team of surgeons and oncologists, the Pain and Symptom Management Team, and the ICU staff of the Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s.
Donations to the Cancer Care Foundation’s Patient and Family Support Fund are gratefully accepted to honour Lynette’s life and legacy.
Visitation will take place at Carnell’s Funeral Home, 329 Freshwater Road, on Tuesday, March 25 from 11am-4pm and 7-9 pm. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, March 26 at Gower Street United Church at 11 am.
Time to go into the dark
where the night has eyes
to recognize its own.
There you can be sure
you are not beyond love.
~ David Whyte
Schedule
Visitations
11 a.m. - 4 p.m. on March 25, 2025
7-9 p.m. on March 25, 2025
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
funeral
11:00am, Wednesday March 26th
Gower Street United Church
Christopher,
I am very sorry to hear of Lynette’s passing. I have many treasured memories of you and Lynette as enthusiastic and full of life students at A. P. Low in Labrador City. As young people then, you both showed exceptional character which helped lead to many wonderful accomplishments. May your fond memories of your time together give you much peace and strength at this very difficult time.
Lionel, Nina and Crystal, our condolences to you and all your families at this time.
Gordon and Holly Saunders
To Lynette’s family;
Sincere condolences to you all. The world has lost such a beautiful person who did remarkable work during her short life.. we hope that knowing others care along your beautiful memories give you comfort during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with you all. RIP Lynette, you worked hard & left an amazing legacy..
My heart is much sadder knowing we’ve lost Lynette. A sweeter, kind, more caring individual you would never find and what a wonderful contribution Lynette made to our world. Lionel, Nina and Crystal… I know your hearts are broken and may you find solace in knowing you were always there for Lynette, particularly in these last years of her illness. Sending you strength for the journey., keeping you close at heart. Susan
I was shocked to hear of Lynette’s passing. She was so dedicated to her role in helping others through her work at the Foundation. I will always remember her welcoming persona .
She was just a fine person in every respect .
Chris O’Dea
I want to send to the family of Lynette my deepest sympathy. I knew Lynette through The Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Center.. I was a cancer patient there. When I used to send donations, she used to send me letters thanking me for donating and she was so encouraging. . I’m so sorry for your loss.! R.I.P. You Will never be forgotten ❤️
Chris, So sorry to hear of Lynette’s passing. Condolences to your family.
Kim (Manuel) Butler
So sorry to hear of Lynette’s passing- she was such a kindhearted person that dedicated so much of her time helping others. I first met her at Flower Studio and then at By Sharpe Design- where we would chat quite a bit whenever she came into the shop Or when she ordered flowers on behalf of the Cancer Care Foundation. She was such a lovely person. My deepest condolences to her family.
Chris I was very sorry to hear of Lynette’s passing, sincere condolences to you and the family.
Chris so sorry to hear of Lynette’s passing. Thinking of you all . Condolences to the family
Chris, we are so deeply sorry to hear of Lynette’s passing. Thinking of you at this difficult time. We send our condolences .
Chris, Lionel,Nina, Crystal & Amy
So sorry to hear that Lynette had pasted , it was a long hard struggle and she fought to the end which was evident to all. You will all miss her cause her presence always fill the room and your lives, just have to keep going on the memories you all made, as I’m sure there are many I myself will miss her she was a wonderful person.. me being her Aunt Sharon got memories way back to when she was a little girl coming to Hampden to visit with her nan and pop Regular, she was so dainty, with her beautiful long hair and the one thing that stood out the most was her long fingers, pop would always refer to them as piano fingers. She did grow up and use them to play many tunes on her piano. One great girl whom we loved very much. All I can say now is go find nan and pop and play a tune on Heaven’s grand piano. So sorry I couldn’t attend your funeral service as I have health issues myself, my love and presence is with you in spirit. My prayer for you is that you will go rest high on the mountain cause your work on this earth is done. I love you lovely girl., it’s good bye until we meet again .
Lynette was a remarkable, dedicated and passionate fundraising executive who was a colleague, mentor, confidant and friend to all who knew her.
She was passionate about philanthropy, giving back, helping others, and making the world a better place.
Lynette’s passing is a profound loss, but her mark on the charitable sector in Newfoundland and Labrador will never be forgotten and will live on for decades to come.
To Lynette’s Family, the Cancer Care Foundation Board and Team – our lives have been enriched and blessed having had the honour to work with, and to know her. We send our heartfelt condolences and prayers during this time.
“What moves through us is a silence, a quiet sadness, a longing for one more day, one more word, one more touch, we may not understand why you left this earth so soon, or why you left before we were ready to say good-bye, but little by little, we begin to remember not just that you died, but that you lived. And that your life gave us memories too beautiful to forget..”
Association of Fundraising Professionals
Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter
Chris, we were so sorry to hear of Lynette’s passing. Thinking of you at this difficult time. Condolences to you and your family.
Della and Gerald Doyle
To Lynette’s Family and friends , my sincere condolences on her passing..
Lynette’s obituary is a beautiful testament to the person she was. I remember her beautiful smile, her gentleness and kindness. I worked in the Executive offices of the then Newfoundland Cancer Treatment and Research Foundation when Lynette came to work in the Foundation office as a Development Officer In the new Dr.. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Centre building within the General Hospital. She was always friendly and worked hard on projects.
I’m so sorry I wasn’t able to attend the visitation today to offer my sympathies in person but I know you must be so proud of her accomplishments and the beautiful person she was. God Bless.
so sorry the chats we had and fundraising and decorating i will keep close to my heart my prayers r with u all God Bless
Shocked and saddened to hear of Lynnette’s passing. Got to know her through the Cancer Care Foundation. Many notes from Lynnette for donations sent to the charity. I will miss her greatly. Please accept my condolences to the family. God Bless, Mona Perry
It is with Great Sadness to hear of my cousin Lynettes passing, I will remember you with fond childhood memories of visiting our grandparents in Hampden, now you are without pain and suffering. Rest peacefully sweet lady, our sincerest condolences to aunt Nina, uncle Lionel and families, our thoughts, prayers and love embrace you today and in the many days ahead. Jason & Trista Regular,
Gracey~mae & Jeremiah .
God bless you all!!!
Nina , Lionel and Family,
We are so sorry to hear of Lynette’s passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Sending our heartfelt condolences.
Roxanne & Todd
Chris, Nina, Lionel, Crystal and families
We are saddened to hear of Lynette’s passing. We have many wonderful memories of Lynette coming for music lessons, and being a great friend and babysitter/mentor/and friend to our girls. In 1994 our family had major medical issues. With her help, babysitting, getting the girls to activities, homework etc. It made our problems seem more like a hill rather than a mountain.
You are in our thoughts. Take care and cherish your wonderful memories.
Andrea and Paul Northcott
Dear Christopher , and ti the entire family and close friends of Lynette, please accept my heartfelt condolences on her passing . I got to know Lynette in the early years of her career . She has indeed left her mark. Her beautifully written obituary highlights all that Lynette accomplished with pose and dignity.
May Lynette Rest in Peace.✝️.
To Chris, Karen and the Hillier Family,
When we lived in Labrador City, our sons, Stephen and Chris became very close friends at an early age and when we got to know Karen they became family to us. Later when Chris and Lynnette became close, she became a member of our family as well. We can still remember those Christmases together,. We have kept in touch over the years and Lynnette had a Special Gift with people that can never be taken from her. We have been so saddened to hear of her passing. Randy and Marilyn JERRETT
My sincere condolences to Lynette’s husband, parents, sister, family and friends.
We worked closely together for many years before my retirement from the Social Work Department at the Cancer Centre.
What a kind, pleasant, respectful, highly competent professional!
She had such passion for, and commitment to her work.
Lynette was always so supportive of any initiative to enrich the lives of cancer patients and their families.
What a fitting tribute to her life and legacy that donations in her memory are directed to the Patient and Family Support Fund.
Chris, we are so sorry to hear of Lynette’s passing. Hold
your memories close to your heart during this difficult time. Condolences to you and Lynette’s family.
Condolences to Lionel Nina and family during this very sad difficult time. RIP Lynette.
God bless you Lynette, you were a beautiful woman with a heart off gold.I have been dealing with cancer over 24 years now and you were there from day one, your kindness and compassion was there since day one since my cancer begin and 3 relapse after. Thankyou for all those years Rest in peace beautiful woman and my condolences to your husband and family, you will be missed but never forgotten
God love you and Thankyou for the special person you were
Neil Adams
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time condolences to the families
I was saddened indeed to learn of Lynette’s passing. Such a warm pleasant, optimistic person with that vibrant, ever-present, smile. I came to know her as she joined the committee tasked with raising funds to restore the magnificent pipe organ at Gower Street United Church – Her fund raising expertise and confidence, enhanced by that wonderful smile, were truly motivational and so important along the way. She has made a tremendous contribution to the community, and will be missed in so many ways.
My sincerest condolences to Lynette’s family.
I was deeply saddened to hear of Lynette’s passing. While time and distance separated us in recent years, I will always cherish the close bond we shared, especially during our time at Acadia University. Lynette played a key role in encouraging me to attend Acadia, a decision that shaped my entire life. During those years, she was like an older sister to me, and I fondly remember visiting her in residence, just a few floors above mine, and later, the warmth of her hospitality of wonderful home-cooked meals and afternoons at her apartment after she moved off-campus. My deepest condolences to Christopher, Uncle Lionel, Aunt Nina, Crystal, and all the family and friends who loved her dearly.
Nina Lionel and Crystal,
I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of Lynette
It’s such a sad time and my deepest condolences to all of you.
by Greta Hallett ( Neville )
Chris,
I’m very sorry for your loss, and I’m thinking of you.
Nina, Lionel and Crystal,
I’m sharing your sadness at the loss of Lynette.
My sincerest condolences and thoughts are with you.
I had the privilege of speaking to Lynette on many occasions while raising money for the Dr. H Bliss Murphy Cancer Foundation in Grand Falls-Windsor with the Newfoundland Power & Executive Team . There our team worked with Lynnette to furnish the Atrium, build the Garden of Hope and supply equipment in the Cancer Care Foundation Dept. Lynette was a beautiful person and always gave praise for the support everyone gave. I am so sorry to hear this very sad news. Fly with the Angels Lynette & rest in peace!
I was so sorry to hear of Lynette’s passing. I had the privilege of serving as Director & Board Chair at the Cancer Care Foundation for 5 years, but the most memorable experience was working with Lynette. Her dedication, passion, intelligence & empathy for every cancer patient she met & served was transformative.
My sincere condolences to Lynette’s family, the Foundation team and Board.
My condolences to Lynette’s family and co-workers……Lynette was a wonderful colleague and friend, she will be missed.
I’m sorry
Chris,
My deepest sympathies on the way too soon passing of Lynette. You are in my thoughts and prayers as you journey through grief. Allow yourself the grace to remember the good times and enjoy the memories. Take care of yourself.
My sincere condolences to Lynette’s family and friends and especially those she supported through Cancer Care. May she Rest in Peace
Lionel, Nina, and Crystal our thoughts and prayers are with you all. She fought a long battle and has been rewarded with her wings. Condolences to you al and all her friends. Judy and Eli
We met Lynette through the annual Swim for Hope. She always made sure she was at the CBS pool for our opening event. Our son was diagnosed with cancer shortly before the Swim 20 years ago. He was a competitive swimmer with the Bluefins along with his sister. This made the swim mean so much more to us and Roberts fellow swimmers. After his treatments we as a family made sure to attend the opening of the Swim and Lynette was always one of the first smiling faces we saw. She was so fiercely dedicated to her life’s work and always had a ready smile. She will be missed. Our condolences to her family.
Condolences to all family and friends of Lynette Hillier.
I never had the pleasure of meeting Lynette, but heard and read so many accolades for all her work in supporting Cancer Care in NL.
I am a long time volunteer at Daffodil Place in St. John’s.
During my time assisting cancer patients, i am constantly reminded of the quality of care and treatment that is available in our community.. This progress in treatment options can be attributed to the long and tireless effort of Lynette Hillier. .
May her legacy live on with the many cancer patients that have benefited from all her great work over her years at the Cancer Care Foundation.
To Lynette’s family
My sincere sympathies to you . Lynnette was a lovely person and was so kind to myself and my husband Dan during his cancer journey.
My thoughts are with you at this difficult time
Sincerely
Barbara Mosher
Even though we lost touch after university I have many fond memories of Lynette from high school and Acadia! I am so saddened to hear about her passing.
Sending our deepest condolences to the whole family, may you all find comfort in her being at peace. Thinking of you during this difficult time….
Lynette’s family
When my beloved wife passed away over seven years ago I became involved with Lynette to raise funds in her memory for the Cancer Care Centre.
We had a very successful Campaign and a significant amount was raised.
Lynette was very encouraging- dedicated and committed to her work
She was an inspiring person.
She leaves behind a legacy that will endure and encourage others to contribute in the battle against cancer.
She is now at rest and may that rest be in peace
Sincere condolences to all who mourn her passing
Godspeed Lynette
Sending love and sincere condolences to Lynette’s family and friends. I worked with Lynette on many projects/partnerships years ago in my previous role as Executive Director (BPHCF). So deeply sorry to learn of your great loss. RIP Lynette
Chris and Lynette’s family;
We are so sorry to learn of Lynette’s passing. She fought a terrific battle against her dreaded disease, and while we are sad to see her go, we give some thanks that her suffering is now at an end.. We send our sincere condolences at this sad time. We are so sorry for your loss. May she now rest in eternal peace.
So heartbreaking to hear. I had the privilege of working with Lynette at the Foundation years ago. She was a lovely person to work with and dedicated to her job. She will be greatly missed. Condolences to all her family and friends. You made the world a better place my friend.
Nina and Lionel and crystal an families. Deepest condolences to you all at this time
..keeping you in my prayers.
We are so heartbroken to hear of Lynette ‘s passing. Sending our deepest condolences at this difficult time to Chris, family, friends and co-workers.
Lynette fly high with the angels my dear because you certainly earned your wings. May you R I P
To Lynette’s family and friends, please accept my condolences on her passing. I met Lynette through the Cancer Care Foundation a number of years ago and she was always gracious and kind. May your memories of Lynette be a blessing to you and may she sleep in heavenly peace.
I am saddened to hear of Lynette’s passing. We were colleagues in St. John’s healthcare philanthropic community for many years. Lynette directed St. Clare’s Hospital Foundation and later the Bliss Murphy Cancer Foundation (now Cancer Care Foundation). I directed Grace Hospital Foundation and later became the inaugural CEO President of the Health Care Foundation. Among other things, we often discussed how best to strengthen health care within our province through philanthropy. My sincere condolences to the Hillier family.
We were deeply saddend to hear this sad news of Lynette. She touched us deeply, and we could really feel her genuine compassion and committment to Cancer Care in Newfoundland and labrador. A very sweet and sincere lady who will be greatly missed. Her large contribution to health care will always be remembered and honoured.
Sending you all sincere condolences. I was a friend of Lynette’s at Acadia University. I hadnt seen much of her after we finished at Acadia, though we briefly reconnected several years ago. She was a joy to spend time with, to talk to and to know. Chris, I’m heartbroken for you…I still remember our chats about you at Acadia…
Keep your memories close.
So sorry to hear of Lynnette’s passing. She was such a smart, beautiful lady and it was honor to have her as my cousin. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone at this difficult time. Love Jeremy, Lorraine and family.
Our deepest heartfelt condolences. Sending prayers, love and strength. From our home to yours.
I’m incredibly saddened to hear of Lynette’s untimely passing……I can still see her up on stage delivering her valedictorian speech to our graduating class of 1994….sending heartfelt condolences to her husband and family during this unimaginable time of grief.
My deepest condolences to Lynette’s family. I was so incredibly saddened to hear of Lynette’s passing. She was an incredible leader, advocate and champion for cancer care in our province. Her legacy will be lasting and she will be profoundly missed.
Condolences to Lynettes family. Such a shock to see this. She was such a beautiful lady. She was at the Janeway with me while I worked there. May she RIP. Heaven has gained another Angel
Lynette was the best of us, and she was a bright light and a fierce, determined, graceful person who worked as hard in her field as she did bringing joy to everyone in her life. Back in high school, you knew she was going to make a mark, and make a mark she certainly did. Safe to say her impact on raising awareness and funds in her role is too big to put into mere words.
A full life well lived. All the best to Chris, Obi, and to Lynette’s family.
Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Lynette’s compassion, spirit, and unyielding determination have left an indelible mark on the cancer care program. Her strength and dedication were boundless. Lynette worked closely with our father, and he held her in the highest regard. We will forever remember her gracious kindness and the lasting impact she made on the community.
Please accept our deepest condolences.
Nina, Lionel and family
So sorry to hear of your daughter’s passing. I’ve heard it’s been a long hard road for all of you! My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sylvia (James) and Ralph Eddy
My heartfelt condolences to Lynette’s family, friends, and colleagues. I worked with Lynette, on occasion, supporting a few HR initiatives a few years ago. She has always so insightful, strong, and caring! Sending strength and light to her loved ones.
Christine Phillips
I am heartbroken to hear of the loss of Lynette. She was such a sweet person who did so much to help others. She was a warrior and her strength and grace will always be something I remember. It was a privilege to know her and she is forever in my heart. Sincerest condolences to you.
Christopher and Hillier Family
So sorry to hear of Lynette’s passing, Sending heartfelt sympathy to her family and friends.
Dear Nina, Lionel and family of Lynette. We offer our sincere condolences on your loss of Lynette. I remember we had just moved into our house across from Harold and Maryanne and Nina came across the street to show us her new baby daughter. She was beautiful then and forever. May she rest in peace. Blessings to all of you ❤️❤️
We are heartbroken to hear of Lynette’s passing. She was such a beautiful person, soft spoken and always had a smile on her face. She had so many accomplishments in her short life. We will forever cherish the memories of her as our neighbour in Labrador City. Our thoughts and prayers are with Chris, Nina and Lionel, Crystal and Amy….. We will never forget you. Rest in Peace!
I am so sad to learn of Lynette’s passing. I worked closely with her for many years and she was such a strong advocate for patient care and wellbeing and a huge supporter of the Social Work services at the Cancer Centre. A truly authentic human being and certainly has left a wonderful legacy in her profession and an enduring mark on everyone who knew her.
To Lynette’s family and sister friend Jill, our deepest condolences on Lynette’s passing. An incredible woman, we are in awe of how she lived her life and the impact she had on others. We remember Lynette as a member of the Gower Community Band where she had great impact as a player and friend to all. Thinking of you with love and happy memories xx
I am heartbroken to hear of Lynette’s passing. I had the pleasure of getting to know Lynette through the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Board. My thoughts are with her family during this difficult time and I hope you find strength and comfort in the incredible legacy that Lynette has left.
My heart and love are with you all with the loss of Lynette. I’m so sorry and truly hope time will dry your tears to be replaced by smiles remembering your memories together. I’ll never forget how she tried to help my dad out when he was sick even though she was fighting her own battle. She was definitely one of a kind xo
Christopher and Lynette’s family so sorry for your loss, we have lost a force of nature may she rest in peace