Condolences pour in after trailblazing N.B. doctor, politician dies at 92

Dr. Marilyn Trenholme Counsell is pictured. (Courtesy of The Literacy Coalition of New Brunswick)

Dr. Marilyn Trenholme Counsell, former lieutenant-governor of New Brunswick and once president of the provincial Literacy Coalition, has died at the age of 92.

She was inducted to the Order of Canada and the Order of New Brunswick.

“From her early beginnings in medicine, to her distinguished career as a provincial politician, lieutenant governor and senator, she has continuously advocated for early childhood development and literacy,” said the Officer of the Order of Canada in a statement at the time in 2012.

She was instrumental in establishing a provincewide program called “Born to Read,” which provides books to new parents.

“Marilyn advocated relentlessly for early childhood development and literacy,” says Premier Susan Holt in a statement. “She leaves behind a province shaped by her compassion and her conviction. The impacts of her efforts will be felt for generations to come.”

The Tantramar, N.B., community task force has taken to social media to share condolences.

“We share in mourning our community’s loss of Dr. Marilyn Trenholme Counsell this week,” they state in a post. “A ground-breaker and a leader, who worked at the grassroots and also influenced the halls of power. Her legacy lives on in literacy programming, especially prioritizing early childhood development.”

The task force says they received her encouragement regularly, noting she worked across partisan lines and was respected by all.

“Marilyn will be remembered for her dedication to improving the lives of those around her – as a physician. During her time in the public service and through her extensive advocacy work,” adds Holt. “Our thoughts are with her family and all those who know her.”

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