Our People

Peggy Hamilton,
CPA, CMA

Executive Director

Peggy Hamilton has been serving as the Executive Director of Lionel Kelland Hospice since February 2023. With over 30 years of accounting and progressive leadership experience, Peggy brings a wealth of knowledge to the hospice. Her diverse career has spanned various industries, including the oil sector, airport authority, seafood processing, retail, hospitality, and government agencies. Before joining the hospice, she served as Director of Operations and Director of Financial Operations for the social enterprise division of a charitable organization in Central Newfoundland. Her expertise includes accounting, administration, IT, human resources, procurement, and operational planning.

Peggy’s journey into hospice care was sparked by a conversation with a former Senior Director at Central Health. The hospice project resonated with her, aligning perfectly with her extensive experience in hospitality, operations, procurement, administration, and accounting.

The most rewarding aspect of Peggy’s work at Lionel Kelland Hospice is knowing that her efforts, alongside her dedicated team, positively impact the lives of families navigating the end-of-life process. One of her most meaningful experiences was on April 4th, the day the hospice welcomed its first resident. After nearly 14 months of preparation, witnessing the arrival of the first resident stands as one of the proudest moments in her career.

Peggy holds a Bachelor of Commerce Co-op degree from Memorial University of Newfoundland and is a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA). She is actively involved in the community, serving as the Treasurer of the NL Palliative Care Association.

In her free time, Peggy enjoys gardening, fishing, beachcombing, and spending time with her family and their golden retriever. She is deeply inspired by her team, whom she describes as the best she has worked with in her entire career.

Dr. John Campbell

Medical Advisor

John is a physician and his palliative care journey began with his mother, a nurse and palliative care coordinator with Victoria Hospice. In her estimation, medical schools did not provide physicians the perspective and training required to assist patients through death and dying. For that reason, John began volunteering at Victoria Hospice during his undergraduate training. It was a formative experience that shaped his views not only on death, but on what it meant to actually live. As a founding Board Member of Lionel Kelland Hospice, he brings this lens, his experience as a clinician, and a passion for the care of dying patients and their families to the table.

Nicole Thompson,
BNRN, CMSN©, WOCC©, CCHN©, CHPCN©

Care Director

Nicole Thompson joined the Lionel Kelland Hospice team in April 2024, bringing over a decade of nursing experience to her role as Care Director. Since beginning her nursing career in 2011, Nicole has dedicated seven years to acute care and two years to community health nursing. Her passion for palliative care led her to a management role in Community Health & Palliative Care for three years before transitioning to hospice care.

Palliative and end-of-life care have always been central to Nicole’s professional journey. Her commitment to excellence in hospice care is driven by the desire to help residents live their final days with dignity, respect, and a high quality of life. For Nicole, the most rewarding aspect of her work is being successful in assisting residents and their families during such a critical time, making every day special.

Nicole’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Nursing (2011), Med Surg CNA Certification (2015), Enterostomal Therapy Certification (2017), Community Health Nursing Certification (2018), and Hospice Palliative Care CNA Certification (2020). Additionally, she has received specialized LEAP Training, further enhancing her ability to provide compassionate and effective care.

With a deep commitment to resident and family direct care, Nicole brings a wealth of experience in acute and community settings, alongside her management expertise. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her two children, engaging in activities like walking, exercising, yoga, and reading.

Guided by values of compassion, respect, and caring, Nicole is dedicated to continually improving the facility and the care provided at Lionel Kelland Hospice. She aspires to build a fantastic team, fostering the skills and knowledge needed to deliver exceptional care to residents and their families.

Allan Milley

Support Services Director

Allan holds a Red Seal Chef designation from Cabot College in St. John’s. Most recently, he served as General Manager of Twin Town Retirement Centre where he worked with the support team to ensure the best quality of care was provided to residents, and that they continued to receive a safe and welcoming living environment, despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.

A native of Bishop’s Falls and the 14th child in a family of 15, Allan holds his family close. His pride and joy are his two children, and he has been happily married for 18 years. Allan enjoys spending time in the great outdoors with his family and pets, whether at home, skiing or in a boat creating wonderful memories.

Allan’s passion for cooking has been showcased throughout his career and he has prepared feasts for dignitaries and celebrities over the years. One of the highlights of his career was preparing a meal for the famous rock group Bon Jovi.

Maintaining a state-of-the-art building with a group of dedicated staff and volunteers, Allan is committed to providing a safe environment for residents and their families.

Tanya Murphy,
BACS

Community Engagement & Communications Lead

Tanya Murphy has been the Community Engagement and Communications Lead at Lionel Kelland Hospice since June 2024. Tanya brings a wealth of experience from her extensive background in the non-profit sector. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Community Studies, with a focus in Sport Management & Marketing from Cape Breton University.

After years of living and working out west, Tanya is happy to return to her roots in her hometown of Bishop’s Falls.

Tanya is a seasoned professional skilled in marketing & communications, event management, volunteer management, corporate stewardship, and fundraising. Her expertise is backed by over 20 years of experience, including positions with Heart & Stroke fostering the volunteer and fundraising initiatives across Saskatchewan as well as with Saskatchewan Blue Cross, where she led the corporate social responsibility portfolio.

Her motivation to work in hospice care stems from the profound impact that the Lionel Kelland Hospice has on the community. Tanya finds immense reward in the ability to utilize her skills to enhance the legacy of the facility and sculpt the future of end-of-life care in Newfoundland. Witnessing the meaningful, lasting memories created for residents and their families during their final moments inspires her daily.

In addition to her professional achievements, Tanya is a dedicated volunteer, with over 20 years of service with Special Olympics. Guided by the values of caring, trust, dignity, and respect, Tanya is committed to continuing her work at Lionel Kelland Hospice, ensuring that their services remain accessible at no cost to families. She is passionate about engaging the region in understanding and supporting hospice care, and sharing the compassionate work happening at the Lionel Kelland Hospice.

Nancy Curtis

Volunteer Coordinator

Nancy Curtis joined Lionel Kelland Hospice as the Volunteer Coordinator in April 2024, bringing with her over 27 years of experience in the nursing home environment across Ontario and Newfoundland. A graduate of Conestoga College with a Personal Support Worker (PSW) qualification, Nancy has honed her skills in providing compassionate care across various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and community care environments. Her approach to care is grounded in attention to detail and a commitment to the “little things” that make a significant difference in the lives of those she serves.

Nancy’s passion for hospice care is deeply rooted in a lifetime of giving and community involvement. Her love for helping others and her extensive experience in volunteering made her transition into hospice care a natural and fulfilling choice. As the Volunteer Coordinator at Lionel Kelland Hospice, Nancy finds immense satisfaction in working with a team of like-minded, caring individuals who share her dedication to making a positive impact. She believes in the power of love and care to transform lives, especially during the most challenging times.

Outside of her professional life, Nancy is deeply involved in her community through her church and various volunteer activities. She is also an avid adventurer, enjoying kayaking, camping, hunting, and road trips with her family. Additionally, Nancy has a creative side, hosting painting events, and creating memory bears from loved ones’ clothing, which reflects her love for esthetics and craftsmanship.

Looking ahead, Nancy aims to continue learning and finding new ways to empower the community through volunteer opportunities. She is dedicated to successfully recruiting and managing volunteer teams to support the programs and initiatives at Lionel Kelland Hospice, ensuring that the hospice remains a place of comfort and care for all who come through its doors.

April Strong,
BSW, RSW

Social Worker & Program Lead

April Strong joined Lionel Kelland Hospice in May 2024, bringing with her nearly a decade of experience in social work. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Memorial University and a Certification in “Women in Leadership” from the University of Toronto. Over the years, April has served in various capacities within NL Health Services, including roles as a Community Support Social Worker and an Acute Care Social Worker at CNRHC. Her career journey also includes a management position in Client Care Services at the Lewisporte Community Health building.

April’s motivation to work in hospice care stems from her desire to align her values with those of an organization that is person-centered, respects dignity, and provides holistic care. At Lionel Kelland Hospice, she finds fulfillment in being part of a compassionate and dedicated multidisciplinary team that supports every aspect of residents’ health—physical, social, emotional, mental, and spiritual.

One of April’s most meaningful experiences at the hospice has been assisting with special events like weddings, anniversary parties, and an antique car show. However, she also treasures the quieter moments where she listens to residents and their families share cherished memories. April believes that while hospice care does involve sadness, it also brings joy, laughter, and peace.

Outside of work, April enjoys spending time with her family, nature walks, online shopping, listening to podcasts, and watching TV series or comedy specials. She is inspired daily by her colleagues at the hospice, who share a commitment to providing the highest quality of care. Looking to the future, April is excited to offer in-person bereavement support groups to the community, expanding support to those experiencing grief beyond the hospice’s immediate residents.

Erica Billings

Receptionist/Care Assistant

Originally from Cottrell’s Cove in Notre Dame Bay, Erica has 15 years of administrative experience with community organizations. She holds a Business Management Diploma specializing in Human Resources from College of the North Atlantic. Her previous experience includes work with the Exploits Valley Community Coalition, supporting families with young children, as well as individuals facing homelessness in the region.  Within the community, Erica has served in volunteer leadership roles with Status of Women Central and Violence Prevention South and Central.

Erica’s son Joel is the light of her life. Joel has had many complex medical care needs since birth and together they have navigated critical health conditions and long hospital stays. Through Erica, visitors and families of Lionel Kelland Hospice will be greeted with courtesy, respect, and unwavering compassion.

Erica Tremblett

Administrative Assistant

Erica Tremblett brings over 12 years of administrative experience to her role as Administrative Assistant at Lionel Kelland Hospice. Having worked in various administrative capacities across Newfoundland and Labrador—from St. John’s to Corner Brook—she has primarily been involved in the construction industry. Erica holds a diploma from Keyin College, which has provided her with a solid foundation for her extensive career in administration within large organizations.

Erica was motivated to join the team at Lionel Kelland Hospice by the opportunity to engage in meaningful work and give back to the community she grew up in. She finds the most rewarding aspect of her role to be reading the heartfelt messages from families who have utilized the hospice’s facilities and witnessing the community’s effort to provide a comforting environment during one of the most challenging times in a person’s life.

Outside of work, Erica enjoys walking her dog, spending time with family, and immersing herself in nature. Her hobbies include reading, photography, hiking, and beachcombing. Erica is daily inspired by her coworkers, who display exceptional care and dedication to the Hospice and its mission.

Guided by the values of honesty, respect, and dignity, Erica hopes to continue making a difference at Lionel Kelland Hospice by growing with the organization and contributing to its role as a vital part of the community.

Mark Griffin

Chair

Mark was born and raised in Grand Falls-Windsor. He completed a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from Memorial University in 1989 and a Bachelor of Law from Dalhousie University in 1992 and was admitted as a Member of the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador in 1993.  Partner in the long-established firm Inder and Griffin, Mark’s areas of practice include family law, criminal law, wills and estates, and real estate. Active in the community, he has been a volunteer with many organizations serving in leadership roles with the Grand Falls Golf Club and the town’s Minor Hockey Association. Additionally, Mark has held leadership positions with Hockey Newfoundland and Labrador, the YMCA and the Exploits Valley High School Council. An avid golfer, Mark played a significant role in the development and construction of a new nine-hole facility.  Mark is Chair of the Lionel Kelland Hospice Board of Directors and leads its Building and Property Committee.

Sr. Lois Greene

Vice-Chair & Treasurer

Lois Greene is a Presentation Sister of the NL Unit of the Union of Presentation Sisters currently serving as Director of Nano Nagle Birthplace in Ireland. In the past she has served on the Leadership Team of the NL Unit and as the General Treasurer. She was Chaplain to Memorial University for nine years and taught Music Education in the NL school system for twenty years. Lois received a B. Mus. Ed and an M. Mus. Ed. from Boston University and a Masters in Pastoral Studies from Loyola University in Chicago. She has served on boards provincially and nationally. Lois serves as Vice-Chair of the Board for Lionel Kelland Hospice and is a member of the Finance and Audit Committee.

Sr. Roisin Gannon,

Secretary

Roisin is a Presentation Sister of the NL Unit of the Union of Presentation Sisters. A native of Dublin, Ireland, she served throughout the Irish Province in school ministry for 33 years with 25 of those years spent as Principal of various schools. Roisin received her Primary Teaching Degree in 1971 with a major in Old Irish. In 2004, she was appointed Director of Mount St. Anne’s Retreat House in Killenard, the midlands of Ireland. She spent 12 years in this ministry, part of which was spent overseeing a huge renovation of the historic building. In 2016, Roisin was appointed to the Leadership Team of Newfoundland and Labrador Presentation Sisters and currently holds the position of Assistant Leader and Treasurer. Roisin served on many Boards in Ireland and currently holds a leadership position with Xavier House in Corner Brook. Roisin has been a member of the Lionel Kelland Hospice Board since 2016 and is on the Governance Committee.

Pauline Power

Pauline worked for 30 years in post-secondary education, with 15 years as a Business Education Instructor at Grand Falls District Vocation School and then spending the remainder of her career in Administration in Provincial College System, retiring as Campus Administrator of the Grand Falls-Windsor Campus. She holds a Diploma of Applied Arts in Secretarial Science from Mount St. Bernard College, Antigonish, NS and a Bachelor of Vocational Education from Memorial University of Newfoundland. Additionally, Pauline worked for seven years as an Executive Secretary at the local paper mill.  Active in the community, she has served on several boards both locally and provincially, including Harmsworth Public Library Board, Grand Falls Golf Club, St. Catherine’s Renewal Centre and the Diocese of Grand Falls and the Pastoral Council of Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish.  In her leisure time, she enjoys reading, walking her dog and golfing.

Sr. Betty Rae Lee

Betty Rae Lee, daughter of the land and sea of St. Mary’s, is a Presentation Sister from the NL Unit of the international Union of Presentation Sisters. She has a B.A. (English), B.A. (Education) and a M.Ed. (Administration).  Most of her ministry has been as secondary school teacher and principal throughout the province of Newfoundland and Labrador.  She also spent seven wonderful years as a volunteer at a centre for marginalized youth in Dominica, West Indies. Betty Rae is delighted that the Presentation Sisters are partnering with the wider community in establishing the province’s first ever community-based palliative care hospice in Central Newfoundland. She has served on the Lionel Kelland Hospice Board of Directors since 2016 and sits on its Building and Property Committee.

Sandra Evans

Having retired after 35 years with the provincial government and the health care system, Sandra’s love of nursing and her desire to help in the response to the Covid 19 pandemic, took her out of retirement. Her career began as a Registered Nurse in acute care and from there she worked in various roles within community, education and management.  Prior to 2016, Sandra was the Director of Quality Assurance for the Department of Children Seniors and Social Development. In addition to her Nursing Diploma, she completed undergraduate and graduate degrees in Education and completed various leadership courses. Sandra has served on the Board of the Association of Registered Nurses of NL and the Council for Licensed Practical Nurses of NL.  For several years,  Sandra was the Chair of the Carmelite Home Family Council.   She has also served on numerous nursing and education committees within the province and at a national level.  Sandra has been a member of the Lionel Kelland Hospice Board since 2016.