A dedicated public servant has passed away.

Paradise Town Councillor Elizabeth Laurie has died after a battle with cancer. The town confirmed her passing today.

Laurie was first elected in 2009 and spent nearly 15 years serving the people of Paradise, including four as Deputy Mayor. Laurie helped steer the growth of the municipality, chairing the Imagine Paradise 10-year Municipal Plan Committee and being involved in the development of the Paradise Double Ice Complex and the St. Thomas Community Centre.

The life-long resident was also an advocate for women in politics, winning a Women of Inspiration Award from Municipalities NL in 2022.

Mayor Dan Bobbett calls Laurie a strong advocate for equality inclusion and women in politics, and a trailblazer for the Town of Paradise.

To honour Elizabeth Laurie, flags in Paradise are flying at half-mast.