Denise Shannon Blair

Denise Shannon Blair (Gourley), a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on September 20, 2023, at the VG Hospital in Halifax at the age of 64. Born on May 16, 1959, at the Grace Maternity Hospital, Denise's life was a testament to unwavering love, and dedication to family.

Denise was predeceased by her loving partner, Brian Parsons, her mother, Lorraine Gabriel, her father, Edward Gourley, her stepfather, Aubrey Gabriel, her brother, Tommy Gourley, and her step-sister, Sissie Gabriel. She is survived by her loving daughter, Shannon (Darrell) Daine, and loving son Shawn Blair. Denise was a proud grandmother to Cullen Murphy and Riley Langille.

She is also survived by her sisters, Anne (John) Ferguson, Kelly (Darrell) and Colleen Gourley, and her brothers, Brian Gourley, Mike (Barbara) Gourley, sisters-in-law, Kim Gourley, Sandy (Tony), Sharon (Tony), brother-in-law, Danny (Kim) and many nieces and nephews. Her beloved cat, Tigger, who was a constant source of comfort and companionship to her.

Denise's friendship extended far and wide, and she held her dear friends Charlotte Cromwell, Ada Bagatin, and Cathy Ashe, and so many others she held close to her heart.

Denise, was a dedicated union rep at the IWK Health Centre, she embarked on her journey of service at the tender age of 16. Over the years, she became an integral part of the IWK family, leaving an indelible mark on the institution and the countless lives she touched. From her humble beginnings to her well-deserved retirement in 2019, Denise's commitment to the welfare of her colleagues remained unwavering.

Denise's life was a true testament to her unyielding devotion to her family. She was the heart and soul of her family, a source of unwavering love and support. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth, where family gatherings were filled with laughter and love. She was not only a loving partner to Brian but also a nurturing mother to her children and a cherished grandmother to her grandsons, Cullen and Riley.

Denise had an infectious love for the great outdoors, sparking a profound appreciation for nature and to the ocean. Denise was a devoted bingo bag, and her love for Toronto Maple Leafs was legendary.

Denise Gourley's legacy is one of love, generosity, and community spirit. Her memory will forever be a beacon of inspiration to her family, friends, and the community she cared for so deeply! For Denise's spirit will live on in the countless acts of kindness and the love she shared, reminding us all of the profound impact of a loving heart. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, but her love will continue to shine brightly in our hearts.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to JA Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Dr, Halifax. (902) 455 0531.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 30th, 7:00pm - 9:00pm, followed by a celebration of life on Sunday, October 1st at 2:00pm.

Words of comfort may be expressed to the family by visiting www.jasnowfuneralhome.com

“Nobody else held me so tight or made me feel so right

no one’s eyes shined so bright with love as my mom, who is now high above”

“Goodbyes are not forever, goodbyes are not the end, they simply mean I’ll miss you until we meet again.”

Thanks to Dr. Madeline Plourde and the nursing staff at the VG.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the local SPCA https://www.novascotiaspca.ca