8 April 2010 Death of Teresa Gourley

The University records with sadness the death of former staff member Teresa Mary Gourley.

Terri, as she was known by all, died in Christchurch on 6 April after a long illness. She was 64.

For 14 years, 1984-98, Terri provided counselling services at Lincoln University as part of the Student Services Group. At the time of her leaving, she was Senior Counsellor.

Terri also served six years as a General Staff representative on the Lincoln University Council. She was the first representative of this new constituency when membership of university councils was expanded under the Education Amendment Act 1990. In that role she was also a member of the first Council of the newly independent and autonomous Lincoln University.

Terri was well respected by all on campus. Although her service was primarily student focussed, she always made herself available, unofficially, to staff whenever needed. She also contributed professionally to various university-wide health and wellbeing initiatives.

Born in Ireland, Terri came into counselling from a background of teaching and psychiatric social work. She held an MA (Hons) degree from the University of Auckland and was a Registered Psychologist. She and husband John were well-known counselling professionals in Christchurch, and worked together in private practice in Opawa after her time at Lincoln University.

A Requiem Mass for Terri will be celebrated at the Diamond Harbour Community Church on Friday 9 April at 1.00pm.