Obituary of Gail Bonsall Pipes

Gail Pipes passed away on Wednesday, June 8, 2011 at the Rocmaura Nursing Home at the age of ninety-two. She was born on July 3, 1918 to John Henry Kaye and Ida Beatrice (Buchan). As her father was a military man, she spent her early childhood in various places to which he was posted. Her schooling began at the age of seven with one year in Toronto. She then spent seven years travelling abroad with her parents. Returning to Saint John at the age of fourteen, she entered Netherwood School in Rothesay, graduating in 1936. In 1939 Gail completed her third year at The Ontario College of Art. Returning to Saint John after war was declared, she enlisted in the RCAF (WD) in 1943. In December 1976, she married Arthur Brown Lawton Pipes. This marriage, although of short duration, was indeed a great joy to her. Her husband, Brownie, died in January 1986. Gail pursued her artistic talents throughout her life both in painting and writing. She had great interest in family history and has left an excellent written account of the family during the years 1847-1947. She was also very interested in the history of Saint John and its Loyalist roots. She, with her husband, Brownie, wrote a book entitled "Loyalists All"which documents many of the Saint John Loyalist Families. Her hobbies included story-telling and gardening. Surviving are step-daughter Carol Pipes (Cole Harbour, N.S.), step-daughter-in-law Gillian Pipes (Saint John, N.B.), step grand-children Jennifer Maxwell, (Cole Harbour, N.S.), Dr. Jeffrey Wackett (Sherbrooke, Que.), James Pipes (Saint John, N.B.), and 8 step great grand-children. Several cousins will miss her greatly as well. She was recently predeceased by step-son, John H.B. Pipes. Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, N.B. (506-634-7424) with visiting on Monday June 13th from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm. The funeral will be Tuesday, June 14th at 11 am from Trinity Church, Charlotte Street, Saint John, N.B. Donations in her memory to the Animal Rescue League or donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be placed at www.brenansfh.com.