26 January 1955 – 10 October 2023
26 January 1955 – 10 October 2023
GILBERT-SMITH (nee Gilbert), Lynn Patricia QSM, Beloved wife and best friend of the late Graeme. Lynn passed away peacefully at home on 10 October, aged 68 years. Special and loved sister and sister-in-law of Raewin and Danny (deceased) MacKenzie, and Philip and Diane Gilbert. Dearly loved aunty and great-aunty of Leanne and Stephen, Danelle and Kurt, Kirsty and Dwayne, and families.
To honour Lynn's memory we are holding a celebration of her life on Friday 13 October at 1:30pm at Eagars Te Henui Chapel, 174 Lemon Street, New Plymouth, then moving to Awanui Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Hospice Taranaki, who have been wonderful support for Lynn. Messages to Lynn's family may be left on Lynn's tribute page at eagars.co.nz/lynn. "Millie and Annie love you and will miss you deeply."
GILBERT-SMITH, Lynn QSM, Dearly loved aunty to Leanne and Stephen Hodge, and Danelle and Kurt Lines. Adored great-aunty to William, Imogen, Connor and Courtney. The best things in life are the people we love, and the memories we've made.
GILBERT-SMTH, Lynn QSM, Much loved and treasured sister-in-law to Mark and Denise Snowdon, Queensland, and fun aunty to Jake, Georgia and Meg. Loved and special sister-in-law to Barb Lalich, Sydney, and aunt to Kerrie and Paul Lalich and families.

Funeral service held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel
wonderfull service, i was away, so sadly missed the occasion. i knew Lyn for over 40 years, and was fortunate to build her new studio at james lane. working with her was a pleasure and a privilege, a lady that worked to perfection. An amazing lady that inspired many. now resting with her beloved husband. rest in peace Lyn, you will be missed, but remembered forever. love you always. Ant
Sad I could not attend in person. Watched online beautiful and sad. So much love given and received in a lifetime. The age of my Mum too. Thinking of all xo
I have fond memories of a busy 10 years with Lynn in the little church hall in Fitzroy teaching my two daughters to dance. We had trips to Taihape, cheer leading and helping with the bride of the year shows. What an amazing talented person.Thinking of you Raewin.
I first met Lynn as a 4 yr old going to ballet classes. I'm now almost 51 so Lynn has been a part of my life for as long as my first memories. I always remember when Lynn took us out to the new years day carnival at oakura and we all piled into her little car. The way I would see you and Graeme at the beach and hear 'jenni hook' called out. My girls have also had the privilege of having Lynn in their lives for many years also. You were one in a million. Love to Raewin,Leanne,Danelle and families.
So many treasured memories over the years and most of all Lynns personal eulogy will leave a huge imprint. Her immeasurable legacy will live on throughout the lives of many dancers she has touched.
I’m so sorry to hear about Lynn’s passing she was an amazing person and a big part of our lives when Summer was dancing it taught her so much and her unwavering support and love of dance was amazing. Lynn will always be in our loving memories. My condolences to her family. ❤️❤️
Dear Raewin, Leeann, Danelle and families I was so saddened to hear of Lynn's passing. I have many happy memories from those early days of Lynn's dance school. And she had such an influence on my life. Lynn meant so much to me and my family - she was a very special lady. My thoughts are with you.
So many memories from jazz dancing from 4 years to 19 years old with Lynn, cheerleading, bride of the year, fashion shows and so much more . I cherish the life skills and lessons I learned from Lynn, and I love watching my daughter walk into dance class knowing she is learning the same skills 👯♀️❤️
It is difficult to understand why such an incredible person with so much to give, can be taken from life so early. You were an inspiration to so many Lynn and your teaching and organising ability was phenominal. I have fond memories of my many years as Convenor of the Jean White Memorial Ballet Scholarship and how you ensured that everything ran smoothly. Your Farewell on Friday was well organised of course and the memory of your very own Eulogy will stay in my mind forever. Rest in peace now Lynn. You will be greatly missed.
It was an honour to be part of the very heart warming service today. Lynn, you were very much a significant part in Minami’s last years learning dance especially towards her future dance career. We are so grateful for your guidance and emotional support. You will be heavily missed. Thank you so much. Our love goes out to the family.
Dear Lynn I am so blessed to have been taught by you. Thank you for your dedication to dance and supporting young dancers. I would not be where I am today without your guidance. I am truly grateful. Sending lots of love to Raewyn and all the Family. Brad Carter
Lynn, we feel blessed that our girls were able to dance under your watchful, all seeing eyes - no getting away with half hearted spring points or lazy arms! You have inspired Abigail especially, her love for dancing has been supported and nurtured by you and the amazing team at LGS. One time in class Abi called you 'Miss Fussy' a name you had given yourself with the younger dancers! I held my breath in parental shame.. until I saw your affectionate smile and twinkle in your eyes as you spoke to her.. she will always remember that name and the expectations associated with it! Your legacy and pride for such a high quality in your dancers, your encouragement to always do their best, and to enjoy it, will live on and be with them always in every aspect of their lives. Rest easy now Lynn. Raewin and family, our thoughts are with you all at such a difficult time as you navigate the road ahead.. I so treasured the past few months and the times I was able to help in such a small way. Thank you.
A special spirit whose love for all her family, friends, students and life was given with a passion, determination, and above all love.Rest with Graeme now.Helen, Ian and Olivia Calman
My thoughts are with you all at this time and memories of childhood times. Love Doug
From a love of dance, all things come...what a blessing and a privilege our journey in dance for many years connected us Lynn. Your class, your high standards, your always desiring the best from yourself, your students, your colleagues and your ability to 'give' so very much to all that dance encompasses- this has been a continual source of inspiration to me across the last 35years. This inspiration will continue in my days of dance to come. I thank you dearly, love and miss you dearly, but your twinkle, and your 'special neck' approach will always, always be with me.
Lynn you really cared not only for your dancers but all you came across and not only in dance but how they were after they moved on from dancing. Our love goes out to her LGS family past and present and most importantly Raewin, Leanne, Danelle and Whanau. Rest in love Lynn you will be dearly missed and remembered 🩷 Love Isabella and I xxx
Dear Raewin and family - our deepest sympathies go out to you all on the very sad passing of Lynn - our relationship goes back many years to the Taranaki Rugby Cheerleading days and of course the wonderful years of dance with Emma and Katie - so many special memories we will treasure - thinking of you all at this very sad time - lots of love Andrew, Karen, Bradley, Emma and Katie xx
Dear Lynn/Miss Gilbert. We are so grateful for the years that Katie spent dancing with you, and thank you for so many wonderful memories. Much love to Raewin, Leanne, Danelle and families xx Lynne and Katie Alexander.”
My condolences to Raewyn and family on the death of Lynn. Our days of cheerleaders that included many public promotions within Taranaki including other regions were fun yet hard work. None of it would have happened without Lynn, Raewyn and Bonnie. Lynn was an inspiration. Her choreography/dancing and creative flair, her drive and leadership were inspirational. They were days I will never forget and will treasure. The cheerleaders were professional thanks to Lynn and her choreography routine, music, outfits, makeup and pom poms. It was my pleasure to have worked alongside of her. Best regards JenniferThomson (Former Promotions Director for Classic Hits 90FM & Newstalk ZB).
So sorry to hear of Lynnes passing. So many wonderful times, parties and laughs and a very special friend to my late father Maurice O'Keeffe.
we are going to miss not only a wonderful dance teacher but a true friend for so many years lyn there is now a special place in our hearts just for you our thoughts will be with you always lots of special thoughts always just for you xxxxelsie eddie and family
Dearest Lynn, THANKYOU for all your support and encouragement over the years - you were such a huge influence in so many lives and you will be greatly missed - dear Raewyn, Leanne and Imy, my heart goes out to you at this sad time and my thoughts are with you as you mourn the loss of such an amazing and irreplaceable member of your family. Lisa xxx
Lynn, Thank you for your years of hard work, passion and dedication to the New Plymouth Competitions Society as both the Ballet and Modern Convener and in your role as Vice-President. You leave behind a huge hole in our committee and in the dance community. The impact you had on the standard of dance competitions across the country was a testament to your knowledge and love of the art form. You dedicated your life to dance and over 30 years to the Society to which we are forever grateful. Your passion and love for dance will live on through your Life Membership and we will continue on all your hard work. Meetings and competitions will not be the same without you... and they will probably no longer run to time. With love, New Plymouth Competitions Society
Miss Lynn, I am very grateful that Scarlett started her dancing journey under your guidance. Although our time with you was only a few seasons, it has been significant. You have inspired Scarlett so much and she will never forget everything you have taught her. During what was to be our last lesson Scarlett turned to you and said "I just LOVE dancing." You gave so much encouragement and knew how to bring out the very best in your dancers. Thank you x You will be greatly missed. Fly high and RIL 💜 Our sincere condolences to all the family. Trish, Drew, Scarlett and Alexander Moore
It is with great sadness to read this. A wonderful lady who gave her life to dance and children. The amount of top quality dancers you produced was exceptional. A well respected lady in our community and the dancing world. Rest in peace Lynn. To Raewin & family my sincere condolences. Debbie Day (née Gray).
Thank you Miss Lynn for helping Mckenna grow in confidence as a dancer. We feel honoured to have been part of LGS dance. You have been an inspiration to so many and will be sorely missed. Rest in peace knowing the LGS dance legacy will live on ❤️
Dearest Lynn, A true blessing to many. You have been a huge part of our family for many years, and we are going to miss you tremendously. We will especially miss your words of wisdom, the catch ups, and our annual Christmas Day tradition photo that the girls have shared with you over the years accompanied by the same message. “sharing a cup of tea, under the Christmas tree at three, thinking of you.” Thank you so much for all the time and energy you put into our family and the many families within the dance community. Our hearts hearts and thoughts go out to Raewin, Leanne, Danelle & families.
Miss Lynn, What an honour it has been for our girls to have learnt dance from you. You have left a lasting impression on our family and I know hundreds of families who have connected with you through your love of dance. Bella will remember everything you have taught her and will dance her new dances remembering that Miss Lynn chose them for her. Thank you for taking her under your wing, and inspiring her love of dance and performance. All our Love to Raewin and your beautiful family who have supported you and loved you so well. May they find peace knowing that you are watching over them in eternity. God bless you Lynn. The Roubos Family Chelsea, Steve, Bella, Maddie and Fynn
"A dance teacher helps their students realise that the steps they take in the studio can also lead them through life" Thank you Lynn, for helping to teach Chloe to persevere, be hard-working and resilient. We feel so lucky to be a part of the LGS family. Rest peacefully knowing that your legacy will live on forever 🩷
Lynne. Forever grateful for all the work and commitment you put into you dancers and exam work. Scarlett is already missing you. She will always fondly remember you asking the students what your middle name was “ fussy” and that LGS has the best feet in all NZ.
Miss Lynn. I still remember the day you told me Chloe was finally a dancer. You encouraged and pushed her to become a beautiful dancer and little girl. I will treasure as I know Chloe will our last catch up. You impacted Chloe’s life and gave her the love of dance. You encouraged and praised me in my costumes more than I could ask for. The little LGS girls have a friendship they will treasure for life thanks to you Lynn. Sleep easy with Mr Graeme, as we take comfort that your back together once more. All our love Nicola and Chloe Green
Dear Raewin, Leanne, Danelle & families. Our hearts go out to you, we know Lynn was such a huge part of all your lives and will be missed greatly. Molly and I have so many treasured memories of Lynn from all the years involved in dance that we will remember always. With love from Sue and Molly Senior & family xxx
Dear Raewin and families …how sad we are to read of Lynn’s passing - she was such an inspirational legend and we will never forget her!! Thinking of you all at this time Anthe & Lauren xxxxx
Oh Miss Lynn, our hearts are heavy! You were Alix's first teacher to inspire, help her grow and give her confidence beyond the lessons. We are sorry we cant be there to say goodbye and celebrate your life. You are forever in our hearts xx
My deepest sympathies to Raewin Leanne Imogen and family. Lynn was "a master at her craft". Lynn will be dearly missed by the dance and performance community. May Lynn's family find some sort of peace and comfort. RIP 🙏
As my eyes are filled with tears I am writing this to say Lynn you were far too young to be taken away .There is still so much to be done . Your dedication to dance and your pupils was so strong. There are hundreds of people who will be so appreciative of what you have taught them in dance and life standards. Everything was so professional in every respect. I still remember you teaching with me when you were 15years old and we have done so much together over the years. Graeme will have the wine on the table for you. You legacy will live on my dear. Claire
A charismatic lady who inspired many young girls in sharing her passion/drive for dance and what beautiful dancers she created. Rest in Peace Lynn - your legacy will live on! Love to all family x
Behind every dancer who believes in themselves, is a teacher who believed in them first. Thank you Miss Lynn. Everything you have taught Evie through dance has helped her grow as a dancer but also in life itself. You are an inspiration and we have all been so lucky to have you in our lives. Enjoy dancing with the angels. All our love to family and friends. Tish, Evie and family.
Lynn, you have been a constant in the dance community since I was a child. You will be missed greatly. My thoughts are with Raewin and family at this sad time. Rest in Peace xxx
Dear Lynn, Raewin, Leanne and Imogen. I always appreciated the lovely and kind words Lynn that you had for Jordyn as a dancer. The amazing dedication to dance and to have been able to judge at the comps last year and met you and Raewin was a pleasure. Leanne it was a great honour to have been able to make Imogen a beautiful costume and Imogen always a delight to have watched you grow and dance and the love of the arts flow through your beautiful family. Always in my heart a great lady and family Lynette McIlwaine
Dear Lynn, your departure fills us with deep sadness. You have been an inspiration to many girls, teaching them to be strong not only in dance but also in life. We are immensely grateful for the mark you have left on Isabela; that legacy has given her the strength to pursue her dreams. Your legacy is unique and invaluable, and you will always remain in our hearts. Thinking of you Raewin and Family
Dear Lynn, Oh what a legacy you have left. All your beautiful dancers, always so immaculate & technically strong. But above all, what I remember most was their love of dance that was nurtured by you, so that it shone in their dancing. Rest easy now & dance among the stars. xx Dearest Raewin, Sending all my love & thoughts to you & your family. She was a very special lady. Robyn Sinclair xx
The sky shines a little brighter tonight having gained a star. Thank you for sharing your love of dance far and wide and inspiring many Much love x
Dear Lynn, Thank you so much for the impact you made on the dance scene in NZ. I will never forgot those early years of my career where you really inspired and encouraged me. You are were a huge support and motivator. You believed in me. You will be sadly missed. Taken far too soon. With much love and respect, Kylie Norris. Xxxxxx
Raewin, Leanne, Danelle and families, my heart breaks for you. The final goodbye is always so hard. We are thankful for the years our girls spent dancing with Lynn and she played a big part in shaping the young adults they are today. Taken way too soon x
Our hearts go out to Raewin and family at this sad time. Lynn's charisma and dedication to dance were truly inspiring. Heartfelt sympathy from Diana, Suzanne and Marianne Trye.
Dear Raewin and family, we were so sorry to hear of Lynn's passing. Our hearts go out to you all at this very sad time. Bruce Black & Lyn Gee
Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Miss Lynn Thinking of all her family and dancers at this sad time. A truly inspiring lady, whose passion and dedication to the art of dance knew no bounds. A huge influence in so many lives throughout NZ. Myself and my dancers loved the times we travelled to New Plymouth for the July Competitions, you and your dancers made us feel so special and I loved you for that.
Lynn, Miss Lynn, and to me Miss Gilbert. From my age of 5years old you came into my life. Since then our 2 daughters have danced with you as well. I thankyou for teaching us more than just dance. Dance in peace now with Graeme. You have left a legacy of beautiful dancers behind but they will continue to make you proud. Love to Raewin, Leanne, Danelle and extended families.
To Lynn's family, friends and the LGS Family, wishing you all peace, love and light during this difficult time❤. Lynn has contributed so much to our arts community which lives on through her students. Dance is beautiful! Thank you Lynn❤much love, Lori, Sydney & Maya
Whenever I walk past the stage at the Bowl of Brooklands, I’ll think of you and our conversation about music. Whenever I pass Fitzroy Surf club, I’ll think of you and Graham cycling past and waving. Whenever I drive through town, I’ll remember you tooting and waving. Whenever I listen to music, I’ll remember us clapping and signing along. Whenever I’m in Taupo, I’ll remember how you worked all weekend to pronounce “toe-poor. I’ll remember you when I drink a Japanese slipper cocktail 🍸 that was a great night. There are many more places I’ll remember you Lynn. Thank you for helping me raise a daughter. I will miss our stories.
Thinking of you Raewin and family at this sad time. I was so grateful for Lynn reaching out in our tough time of losing Richard. Checking up every few weeks, our chats about our respective partners we had lost, those conversations helped me through. Thank you for your amazing commitment to the local dance community, we will never forget the way you announced yourself at comps. Time to fly high Lynn and be with your beloved xx
Lynn you were such an inspiration to so many people. The slick dance concerts will be remembered by all. You always brought out the best in all your students & gave them all the opportunity to shine in their own way. Rest easy Lynn with your much loved Graeme. Love from your Dance Trust Family
It saddens my heart to hear of the passing of dear Lynn. All though it’s been a couple of years since we last saw each other the fond memories I have of our dancing years at the comps and working together on 42nd Street will stay In my heart forever . A true professional in her field for dance but most of all a Lady that brought out the talent of many young dancers who were lucky enough to be part of her dance school. My deepest sympathy goes out to dear Raewin and family. Rest in peace Lynn Peter Gray
You are a New Zealand pioneer in your craft. I enjoyed photographing you, and your wonderful students when I worked at the Daily News, many years ago. Your passion radiated throughout. Then our chats at the beach as you walked the dogs, and me wanting to swap a surf lesson for a dance lesson. Lovely thoughts to all of your family and many, many friends Kia kaha Daisy Day
Dearest Raewin You shared such a special bond and so many wonderful times with Lynn. She will be hugely missed but her memory will live on forever. Our deepest condolences to you and the family xxx
Such an incredible commitment to the dancing community over many years. Dance with the Angels. Our thoughts and love are with Raewin and Family. Karena & Brad Carter
So very sad to hear of Lyn’s passing. I enjoyed lots of interaction with Lyn over the years she held her dance academy classes in the Welbourn School hall. I saw first hand the hard work, commitment and passion she brought to teaching so many students the skills and love of dance. A really wonderful inspirational lady. Rest in peace Lyn.
Dear Lynn, I will be forever grateful for your talent, guidance, tough love, patience and kindness towards me when I was young. You made such an impact on my life and the lives of many others. Rest in peace, knowing you’ve left a true legacy behind. Much love to the family x
Such a sad ending to a beautiful life, what a legacy to leave in so many lives. I danced with Lynn in our younger days and connection through my sister in law Claire Patten. Much love Raewyn and families. Christine Patten
Goodbye cousin Lynn. You were always a positive bundle of energy. Gone too soon. Our thoughts are with all your extended family. Love to you all Tony and Barbara
A lovely, caring person and teacher, with a passion for dance. Our love and thoughts are with Raewin and all her family. Kathy and Mitch Gates
Miss Lynn - thank you for being the best dancing teacher ever. 33 years I have known you. As a 5 year old you made me fall in love with Ballet 🩰 I'm pretty sure you are part of the reason I'm such a girly girl. I have so many happy memories as a child with you, dance was my place to be. Thank you for teaching my children also - bit of deja vu for you 🥰 I will miss bumping into you around Manu Cres with Millie and Annie and talking some neighbourhood goss. I'm so saddened that you are gone Lynn. I hope you are able to rest peacefully and you are back with Graeme xxx Thank you for being one of the biggest influences in my life 🩷🩷🩷
A Wonderful dedicated teacher of 🩰 dance.. Thinking of you Raewin.big Hugs from Alan and Raewyn Roebuck
Sending hugs to you Raewin and Phillip and family on the loss of a beautiful sister. Lyn was a gorgeous classy lady. Rest in Peace Lyn.
A truly dedicated lady to the art of dance. The thousands of young girls and boys that were touched by Lynn’s knowledge will never be lost. We remember the good times, trips away especially our annual trip to Taihape. One of the best to Blenheim. Your selfless attitude to all the organising and friendships that will last a lifetime were appreciated greatly by all. Our thoughts and love are with you Raewin and the rest of Lynn’s family
Such a sad loss of a beautiful classy fun lady always enjoyed chatting to you Lynn may you now rest in peace with your loved Graeme. 🩷🩷 Mike and Megan Ekdahl
Words can not express how much Lynn influenced my life and so many from our dance community. Lynn will be greatly missed but will live on in ours hearts with our love of dance. Send my love & thoughts to Raewin and family xx Sam, Ciarán & Mia
Such a huge loss to the community and dance world! Lynn taught me so much and I’m grateful to have been her student in the dance studio and on the rugby field. Will never forget my favourite dance teacher! Huge hugs to the family. X
So sad to hear of Lynns passing. Oh my what a legacy she has left. The value of her teaching expertise and talent will be seen around the country for some time to come. I imagine she and Jill Hooper will have all those ‘up above’ on pointe in no time at all! Hold on to the wonderful memories as they will help you in those wavering moments. Sending love and big hugs to you all🍀
Lynn, you were a very dear friend & dance teacher. I have loved working with you over the years & more particularly the last few months. I will treasure our memories & laughs we have shared together. Love & miss you. Kay
So sad to hear Lovely lady, fond memories of St John Bosco and living close in Fitzroy Love to Raewin and in my thoughts 💜

Funeral service held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel

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