It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of former Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada employees, Sarah Poulin, who had worked as our financial tracking technician (see obituary in French), and Anne Mackey, who had been our animator for Newfoundland and Labrador.
Bering witness to their legacy, some of their colleagues have offered these recollections as a final tribute.
The kind queen of the dance floor
Poulin, who died aged 55 on December 5, 2024, had worked at Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada between 2009 and 2018. She was a dedicated colleague who was loved by all. Her commitment and passion for her work left an indelible mark on our team. Sarah will always be remembered for her kindness and warm spirit.
Our Latin America programs officer Mary Durran recalled, “Sarah was a dynamic and proactive person, always willing to go the extra mile to find solutions and improve her skills. She was cheerful and sociable. While working for us, Sarah traveled to Haiti to train local organizations in financial reporting. Her work and cheerful personality were greatly appreciated by the partners. She was keen to work in the field, however, and this came to life when she went to work as a finance director for Médecins du Monde in Port-au-Prince. She learned Creole, traveled all over Haiti to visit projects and took salsa classes in Pétion-Ville, becoming the queen of the dance floor at El Rancho salsa nights!”
Addressing Poulin directly, Paul Cliche, our former assistant director of internation programs, said, “Hi Sarah. You’ve gone to another world…. I remember when you first came to Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada. Your expertise in financial analysis impressed us and was a great help. You had a gift for putting numbers in order. But perhaps the most important, the most essential, thing I remember about the beautiful person you were was your overflowing, contagious enthusiasm that made even the most laborious tasks light. It must be said that, coming from the Beauce region like me, you were boosted by the good maple syrup from the Poulin family sugar shack! Bon voyage.”
“I think of Sarah as a cheerful person, dedicated to her work, oriented towards solving challenges and problems rather than dwelling on causes. A good member of her team, ready to lend a hand without begrudging,” said Gilio Brunelli, former director of international programs, adding, “I saw Sarah grow in her work and her commitment to international solidarity, and I accompanied her in her reflection that eventually led her to become involved in the field, in Haiti, precisely because she saw herself more and more in direct action in solidarity, rather than in remote support. Very happy to have walked with you for a few years, Sarah! Thank you, Sarah! Goodbye.”
The good-humoured champion of women’s causes
Mackey, who left us on December 3, 2024, at the age of 82, made invaluable contributions to our organization as an animator from 1990 to 2006. Her caring presence and professionalism touched us all. Anne will be remembered as an exceptional and inspiring person.
Executive director Carl Hétu said, “I had the privilege of working with Anne in the 90s, when we were both animators at Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada. Her faith often inspired the team as we planned our education campaigns. I’ll always remember her good humor and her unique laugh that put us in a good mood. We will miss her.”
During an immersion trip to Peru, Anne was deeply touched by the resilience of the women she met. This landmark event awakened in her an acute awareness of the condition of women around the world, a cause that stayed with her and inspired her throughout her life.
Over her many years as an animator, Anne supported, motivated and guided our members in their initiatives, their actions and the achievement of their objectives.
Her unshakeable determination, deep faith and unwavering devotion to others left a lasting impression on all those who had the good fortune of knowing her. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion and courage, inspiring each of us to pursue her ideals with the same passion and commitment.
The entire Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada team sends its condolences, prayers and thoughts to the families of these remarkable women.
