Obituary of Gussie Eileen Strickland

Gussie Eileen Strickland
November 17, 1947 - November 14, 2023
Burgeo, NL

It is with great sadness that the family of Gussie Eileen Strickland (Billard) announce her passing on November 14, 2023, at the age of 75 years old. Eileen was the wife of Norman Strickland and they shared fifty seven years of happiness and adventure together.

Leaving to mourn with loving memories are: Her children: Edward (Betty), Linda (Albert), Elizabeth (Angela), and Norman (Krista). Her grandchildren: Kelly (Jason), Katie (Andrew), Nicholas (Whitney), Marcel, Jordan, Tamara, Ryan, Lucas, and Nova. Her great grandchildren: Annabella, Penny, Alexander, and Benjamin. She also leaves her brother: Albert (Kathy), sister: Jane and special friends: Margaret, Leroy, and Victor. 

Eileen is predeceased by her parents, Albert and Elizabeth Billard, sisters, Anne, Laura and Eva, and brothers, Archibald, Matthew and Llewlyn Billard.

Eileen was born on November 17, 1947. She spent her entire life in Burgeo, NL. Eileen loved the great outdoors and wild animals; in particular eagles and geese. She spent many years hunting, trapping, and fishing with her husband.  She was no stranger to hard work. Eileen loved to relax with a cup of coffee or to go for a drive with her husband. She would often feed the foxes on the side of the Burgeo highway as she dearly loved animals. Eileen was known to be a stern negotiator. She was instrumental during her time as vice president of the FFAW. Eileen fought to have the local fish plant reopened to process crab which eventually did in the early 2000s. She was a testament of strength and resilience. 

Eileen was truly the anchor of her family. She was often called upon for support and guidance. Her family always said she was the glue that held them all together; their leader. Eileen will be missed by her family immensely.

In lieu of a funeral, Eileen’s family will be honoring her wishes with a small intimate family get together. 

The family would like to express gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Western Memorial Regional Hospital and Sir Thomas Roddick Hospital for all their help during Eileen (Gussie’s) stay. They would also like to thank her daughter in law, Betty, for her compassionate care with Eileen during her extended stay at the hospital. Even on her final days, Eileen (Gussie) loved to make them all laugh with her witty jokes. 

“Yes, I will sail my vessel
'Til the river runs dry
Like a bird upon the wind
These waters are my sky
I'll never reach my destination
If I never try
So, I will sail my vessel
'Til the river runs dry”

- Chorus from “The River” by Garth Brooks, one of Eileen’s favorite songs.