Obituary of Elizabeth Gayle Cole

On Friday, November 24, 2023, Elizabeth Gayle Cole passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Gayle was born March 11, 1940 to Orville and Dorothy (Balharrie) Brophy with brother John and sister Judy. Gayle was survived by dearest husband Douglas Harcourt. Gayle had four daughters who were the pride and purpose of her life; Cindy (Chris), Julie (Joseph), Ginger (Dale) and Laurie (Todd). She was also a loving Grandma or G-ma to Emily, Megan, Devon, Ava, Kaitlin and Keiana, all of whom brought her absolute joy and happiness.

Gayle was born and raised in Ottawa, graduating from the Ottawa Civic Hospital as a Registered Nurse. She worked in maternity, obstetrics and in family medicine for over 50 years; retiring from the Britannia Medical Group. Gayle was a loving and caring nurse and took great pride in providing the best care possible for her patients. She was often referred to as 'Flo' referencing Florence Nightingale. When Gayle was not working she could be found skiing, playing bridge, curling and golfing. Gayle also enjoyed travelling with Doug to Hilton Head for months on end, where they would golf, ride their bikes, dance at the jazz club and spend time with wonderful friends.

Many heartfelt thanks to the staff in the CCU, CRC and H5 at the Ottawa Heart Institute, as well as to the staff at Ruddy-Shenkman Hospice.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Thursday, December 7 from 11:30 am-1 pm at Pinecrest Remembrance Services (2500 Baseline Rd., Ottawa). A private family service and burial will follow. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ottawa Heart Institute or  to Ruddy-Shenkman Hospice.