Gerri passed away on Friday, the 15th of December 2023, at the Courtyards Retirement Home at the age of 87.
Born on November 6, 1936, on the Boland family farm in Donegal (near Eganville, Ontario), Gerri was the daughter of George William Boland and Kathleen Ann Armour. After graduating from secretarial school and a brief career, she married James Robert O’Brien, who served in the Army Service Corps. Their postings included time in Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, Quebec, the Northwest Territories, Israel, and Germany. Gerri enjoyed all of these adventures and made many friends along the way.
Preceded by her loving husband, James Robert, in 2021, she is survived and mourned by her son Robert (Angela) of Paris, Ontario, and granddaughter Isabella.
Predeceased by her sister Helena and brothers Tom and Howard, Gerri is survived by sisters Mae, Kathleen, Colleen, and Loretta, and brother Bill, as well as numerous nephews, nieces, grandnephews, and grandnieces.
Visitation will occur in the Beechwood’s Sacred Space on Saturday, January 13,2024, from 12 p.m., until the time of service at 1 p.m., followed by a reception at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, it was Gerri’s expressed wish that charitable donations be made to the Shepherds of Good Hope https://www.sghottawa.com/in-memoriam-tribute-gifts/.
Digital Guestbook
Sharon Elrick
Catherine O'Brien
I have so many fond memories of Gerri. One of the things that struck me most deeply was her gentle kindness. While there were often years between visits, she always seemed to listen deeply as she asked about what was going on in my life. I relished the times we spent with her and Bert.
RALPH and SANDRA MACKAY
Sandra and I shared at least three postings together during our years of service . We remember both of them fondly to this day. Gerrie was a wonderful friend and neighbour, as well as a great mother. Rest in Peace, Sandra and Ralph
Bill and Ghyslaine Boland
Our sincere condolences to Rob Angela and Isabella. So sorry not to be able to attend
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time
Kevn O'Brien
I will always remember aunt Gerri at Lake Clear and her own cottage near Barry's Bay. She was always so kind and gentle and I remember particularly as a young boy, if I was sad or frightened, aunt Gerri always tried to comfort me in her gentle and caring manner. She will be greatly missed by all of the Tom O'Brien (Carmel) family of Cornwall and Lake Clear.
Claire O'Brien Roy
I also very much appreciated visits with aunt Gerri. She was always warm and such a lovely lady. Very sorry for your loss Rob and Angela.
What a wonderful lady! A true and delightful friend to our family since meeting as neighbours in Lahr, Germany in 1972. Condolences to Robert, Angela and Isabella.