Statement on the passing of Marilyn Trenholme Counsell

Former lieutenant-governor, politician and literacy advocate will be remembered for her dedication to improving the lives of those around her

Release

Office of the Premier

June 18, 2026

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The following statement was issued by Premier Susan Holt on the passing of Marilyn Trenholme Counsell:

I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the family of Marilyn Trenholme Counsell on her passing. She was the 28th lieutenant-governor of New Brunswick and a former senator, a member of the Order of Canada and the Order of New Brunswick and past president of the Literacy Coalition of New Brunswick.

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. Marilyn advocated relentlessly for early childhood development and literacy and was instrumental in the development of Born to Read as a provincewide program.

She leaves behind a province shaped by her compassion and her conviction. The impacts of her efforts will be felt for generations to come. Our thoughts are with her family and all those who knew her.

18-06-26

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