We were so saddened to read about the passing of our fellow CANZ Canterbury celebrant Céline Gibson.
Some people have a gift for brightening even the darkest room. Our fellow Christchurch celebrant, Céline, was one of them.
Learning of her death brought sadness to those of us who knew her through our celebrant community.
A writer with an extraordinary gift for words, Céline understood their power to move us, connect us and give voice to what can be difficult to express. Music was another part of her life, playing the drums in a pipe band alongside her husband.
We remember Céline for her creativity, her warmth and the light she brought into a room. Our love and sympathy are with her husband, family and all who loved her.
For someone who gave so much through words, it is hard to find enough of them to say goodbye.
Farewell, beautiful Céline.
With love, Kineta
From CANZ President Anna Flanagan
Celebrants Aotearoa is deeply saddened to acknowledge the passing of Céline Gibson, a much-loved member of our celebrant community and former Secretary of our Canterbury Branch.
Céline was warm, articulate, intelligent and wonderfully stylish, with a quick wit and a willingness to get involved. She gave her time and energy to our association and was a valued part of the Canterbury Branch and the wider Celebrants Aotearoa whānau.
Many will remember Céline for her unmistakable sense of style. Tall and glamorous, she seemed to arrive in an endless succession of beautiful, colourful outfits. Even more memorable were her kindness, warmth and genuine interest in those around her.
Her talents and interests extended well beyond celebrancy, including her work as an author, and she brought a richness of experience and perspective to our community.
On behalf of Celebrants Aotearoa, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Celine’s family, friends and all those who loved her.
We are grateful for everything she contributed to our association and our profession, and very fortunate to have known her.
Moe mai rā, Céline.
From CANZ Canterbury Chairperson, Ana Connor
Remembering Céline Gibson, Celebrilliant Extraordinaire
I was brokenhearted to hear that our dear friend and colleague Céline passed away in early September, after a period of illness.
When I think of Céline, I remember her effortless sense of style and colour, but more importantly, the spirit she brought to our Canterbury branch. Members will remember her email newsletters when she served as our branch secretary. She always greeted us as celebrilliants – a word that embodies the bright and sparkling soul that Céline herself possessed.
Céline served as branch secretary and treasurer for several years, and I count myself fortunate to have worked alongside her on the committee. Her organisational skills helped us to pull together a diverse range of events for our branch members. These ranged from social catch-ups over a glass of vino, to professional development workshops, brunches, Zoom catch-ups, and of course our famous Canterbury Christmas bus trips.
When thinking of Céline since I heard the news of her passing, there is one phrase that I think sums up Céline: Joie de vivre – a zest for life. Whenever Céline entered a room, she instantly brightened it with her good cheer, quick wit, and caring soul.
Rest in peace, dear Céline.
