St. John's city councillor Debbie Hanlon passed away at the Health Sciences Centre on March 4, 2025, after battling non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Her death was announced by the city council on March 5, 2025, marking the loss of a beloved community figure remembered for her vibrant spirit and dedication to her constituents.
City council released a heartfelt statement, describing Hanlon as "a force of nature — her energy, passion, and larger-than-life spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her." Hanlon’s family expressed their sorrow through social media, confirming her passing surrounded by loved ones. They shared, "She loved her city and being your city counsellor. She loved being your realtor. She loved her community. She loved her friends and family. She loved children and especially loved being a grandma. Debbie truly loved her life."
Born in Chance Cove, Hanlon moved to St. John's at the age of 12. Her career began as a successful entrepreneur, and she later became well-known as a real estate agent and published children’s author, earning recognition as one of the top 50 Atlantic Canadian CEOs by Atlantic Business Magazine three times. Hanlon made her entry to municipal politics when she was elected as the Ward 4 Councillor during a by-election in 2008. After serving until 2013, she returned to the political arena as councillor-at-large, being re-elected to the position again in 2021.
Deputy Mayor Sheilagh O'Leary shared her heartbreak over Hanlon's passing with her own poignant tribute on Facebook. She wrote, "Debbie was colourful, fun-loving, and lit up every room she entered. Seniors loved her, and she knew how to take the sting out of the tough stuff in the political world by spreading optimism and joy." This sentiment, echoed by many others, highlighted her natural ability to connect with different community members and make political discourse more approachable.
Colleagues articulated their admiration for Hanlon’s commitment to the community. Fellow councillor Maggie Burton noted, "She held the people she loved very close to her, and she would do anything for them. She would stretch the boundaries of what was possible in order to make the people she loved happy." Burton’s reflections illustrated Hanlon’s immense capacity for love and kindness, drawing on her loyal friendship and supportive nature, indicative of the widespread affection felt for her among her peers.
Hanlon was vocal about her fight against cancer. More than a year ago, she had vowed to combat the disease, stating emphatically, "I am beating this cancer. Debbie Hanlon's life is not going to end in this hospital with this cancer. Not happening. I'm not letting it happen, I can guarantee you, I am fighting this every step of the way." This inflection of determination encapsulated her unwavering spirit right until the end.
To honor her memory, flags will be flown at half-mast at city hall and other municipal buildings until sunset on the day of her funeral service. Her commitment to public service will be remembered, not only for her remarkable achievements but for the kindness, strength, and joy she brought to those around her.
Debbie Hanlon leaves behind not only cherished memories but also the inspiration for many to continue advocating for their communities with the same fervor and love she demonstrated throughout her life. Her legacy is one of devotion, compassion, and playful resilience, one she exuded tirelessly for the people she served and loved.”