Family, friends and politicians attend Gail Shea’s funeral in Tignish, P.E.I.

The funeral of former Egmont MP Gail Shea was a somber gathering in Tignish, with past and present P.E.I. premiers, as well as federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, in attendance to pay their respects.

Shea, who passed away at the age of 66, was remembered by a large group of mourners from western Prince Edward Island and beyond. The funeral took place at St. Simon and St. Jude Catholic Church, with Rev. Tim Broderick leading the Mass and Rev. Frank Quinn delivering the homily. The service was livestreamed on the parish’s Facebook page.

Among the honorary pallbearers were Pierre Poilievre, former prime minister Stephen Harper, and some of Shea’s former federal cabinet colleagues such as Lisa Raitt, Leona Aglukkaq, and Peter MacKay. Many provincial politicians, including Progressive Conservative Premier Rob Lantz and former P.E.I. premier Pat Binns, also attended the ceremony.

Shea’s husband, Russell, passed away in 2021, leaving behind their five children: Sally, Kelly, Sandy, Holly, and Shawn. The Mass of Christian Burial began at 2:30 p.m. AT, with Quinn praising Shea as a good woman and mother who embodied virtues like truth, beauty, and service.

Hymns like “Amazing Grace” and “How Great Thou Art” were sung during the service, and the congregation joined in singing “O Canada” before the final commendation. Pierre Poilievre shared memories of Shea during a news conference in Charlottetown prior to the funeral, highlighting her impact and legacy.

The funeral was a heartfelt tribute to Gail Shea, a beloved figure in the community who will be deeply missed. May she rest in peace.