Obituary of Gail E. Dickeson

Dickeson, Gail E. (Dykeman,Young) -- "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." - John 14:27 It is with heavy hearts that the family of Gail Dickeson announces the passing of their beloved Mother "Mum" which took place peacefully at Rocmaura Nursing Home, while in the company of her immediate family on Friday, December 16th., 2016. Gail E. Young was born in Middleton, Annapolis Valley, NS to parents Edward and Lorena Young on August 24th, 1940, where she began her life long journey as a witty, fun-loving and loyal person. Gail is survived by her sister Carol Blois (the late Clarence), Saint John NB; her two children, Michael Dykeman (Daniela), Kanata, ON, and Lynda Billingsley, Saint John; Step Daughter, Janice Dickeson, Vancouver BC; three loving Grandchildren, Kahleah Dykeman (Spencer Fillmore), Edmonton AB, Kyle and Jake Dykeman, Kanata, ON; as well as her loving Niece Karen Bustin (Paul); loving nephews, David Blois (Tracy), Burlington ON, and Lee Blois (Rina), Osaka, Japan; as well as her first husband, Frank Dykeman. Gail is predeceased by her second husband Daniel Dean Dickeson and two Step Sons; Daniel Jr. Dickeson, and James W. Dickeson. Gail graduated from the New Brunswick Teacher’s College in 1950 and became a wonderful and innovative educator over the 40 years that followed. She taught in the Saint John area, her first job being at Grand Bay Elementary in the 50’s, before moving to Newcastle NB in 1967 where she opened an operated the area’s first Kindergarten program which she ran for 15 years prior to moving back to Saint John in 1982, where she later became a caring and dedicated advocate for families with special needs children. One of the highlights of her career took place in the summer of 1994 when she travelled to Lesotho, Africa on a Teacher’s Foreign Exchange Program. This was not only a career highlight, but also a life experience that she held dear to her heart for the rest of her days. Gail retired from the District in 2001 and continued to serve as an Advisor on the District Education Council until 2010. Our mother always said she thought there was a lighter side to Alzheimers, as she closely cared for her mother with the same condition. The moments that are bittersweet, the chance to see your parent as they saw you, to care for them as they cared for you, and to say the comforting words they shared with you. Our mother rested in the comfort of Rocmaura with their phenomenal and loving staff, and also in the care of her immediate family. Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (634-7424) with visiting on Wednesday, December 28, 2016 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm. A celebration of Gail’s life will be held on Thursday, December 29, 2016 at 12:00 pm from Brenan’s Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will take place at Cedar Hill Extension Cemetery. For those who wish, remembrances may be made to Stepping Stones – Fundy Region or a charity of the donor’s choice.