Former Newfoundland and Labrador Senator Ethel Cochrane Dies at 88

Former Canadian senator Ethel Cochrane, the first woman to represent Newfoundland and Labrador in the Senate of Canada, has died at the age of 88.

Cochrane passed away at the Health Sciences Centre in St. John's on June 30, 2026. Appointed to the Senate in 1986, she served for more than 25 years and became a pioneering figure for women in public life in Newfoundland and Labrador.

In a statement, Premier Tony Wakeham paid tribute to Cochrane's legacy, describing her as a trailblazer whose contributions helped shape both the province and the country.

"Today, I join family, friends, and colleagues in mourning the loss of the Honourable Ethel Cochrane, a trailblazer for Newfoundland and Labrador, whose contributions helped shape our province and our country," Wakeham said.

The premier noted that Cochrane broke new ground as the first woman appointed to represent Newfoundland and Labrador in the Senate, paving the way for future generations of women seeking roles in public service and politics.

He also highlighted her legacy as a pioneer, educator and advocate, saying her work would continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.