The family of Gaynel Beverley Beaman wishes to announce her passing on Sunday, January 6, 2019, at the Sussex Health Centre, Sussex, NB after a valiant battle with cancer. She was born on April 18, 1944 in Riley Brook, NB and was the daughter of the late Edward "Ned" and Glenna (Faulkner) McAskill. She will be greatly missed by her daughter, Katharine, Halifax, NS; her son, Robert, and his wife, Natalie, Saint John, NB, her grandchildren, Michal, Evelyn and Adrien; as well as her 2 brothers (Andrew and his wife, Audrey, and Robert and his wife, Heather); nephews, nieces, and cousins especially her cousin, Sheryl McAskill who was like a sister to her; as well as many friends. After graduating from UNB in 1967, Gaynel began her teaching career in Perth-Andover, NB, which is also where she met her future husband, Mike, who was also a teacher. After a short time in Quebec, they moved to Norton, NB, where both continued their respective teaching careers in the area and raised their family. As well as being a well-liked and respected teacher with a reputation for being strict but fair, she was also very active in her community. Gaynel was a Councillor for the Village of Norton for 2 terms; was the first female Chair of the Royal District Planning Commission; and was the EMO coordinator during her time on council. Faith was a cornerstone of her life and she was a very active member of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, Hampton, NB serving as an elder and member of the board. As well, she was a member of the Order of Eastern Star and the Pleasant Valley Stitchers. Gaynel was an amazing cook and was affectionately referred to as "The Pickle Lady" and renown for her dill and mustard pickles. She was an ardent fan of the Montreal Canadiens and the Toronto Blue Jays and many a pair of mittens and socks were knit while watching the games. She enjoyed playing various card games especially bridge and UNO with grandkids. She was extremely proud of her Scottish highland roots and embodied the clan motto "Hold Fast" in every aspect of her life. In addition to her parents, she was also predeceased by her husband, Michael Beaman, and her brother, Ted McAskill. Arrangements have been entrusted to Sherwood’s Funeral Home and Life Tribute Centre (506-839-2156) 18 Scovil Road, Norton, NB, where visitation will be from 3 to 5pm and 6 to 8pm on Wednesday, January 9th, 2019. An Order of Eastern Star tribute service will take place at 3pm on January 9th. A memorial service will take place at 11 am on Thursday, January 10th, 2019, from St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, Hampton under the direction of Pastor Wayne Murphy. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, New Brunswick Public Libraries Foundation (www.librariesfoundation.ca) or any education related charity. Personal condolences to the family and donations may be made through SherwoodsFuneralHome.com