In loving memory of
Erica Elizabeth Poole
The family have chosen this music to commemorate their loved one.
Erica Poole
A life well loved and lived
It is with profound sadness that the family of Erica Elizabeth Poole, 43, of Hemford, announces her passing on Thursday, August 27, 2026, in Kejimkujik National Park.
Erica loved Keji, no sudden tragic death could happen in a more beautiful place.
In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place. Celebrations of Erica’s life will be held in both Nova Scotia and England, with specific dates and locations to be announced as arrangements are finalised but initially with the winter solstice in mind in NS.
Born in rural Suffolk, England, Erica was the beloved sister of Alice and daughter of Mark and Carolyn (Dent) Poole, grand daughter of Fay Poole, niece to Neil and Jim Poole.
The family always went north on holidays and frequently travelled to the Maritimes naming our new house Ingonish. It was those holidays which pulled Erica here.
She grew up surrounded by a diverse menagerie of pets and frequently-rescued wildlife which included numerous hedgehogs, seagulls, pheasants and an owl for 16 years. She had a love of gardening which in later life included an detailed understanding of herbs.
The ‘village’ that raised her combined her loving child minder, Sue Addison, Bosmere Primary School, neighbours Dave and Angie Cresswell, and Stowupland High School. She discovered the love of singing in a school choir which performed and competed across East Anglia. She developed a strange love for the oboe, initially torturing her family and neighbours while she mastered the instrument. Having done so, she joined the Suffolk Youth Orchestra where she became lead oboe. She was a water child and swam for her county swimming club Stow Seals. Having hiked many mountains in each of the countries of the UK, she earned a Gold Duke of Edinburgh award. Squashed sandwiches at the bottom of a rucksack became the norm. While growing through the phases of schooling we had some wonderful family friends who have remained with us all of our children’s lives. Joan and Len were enriching friends who steadfastly supported Erica in Maths and English. Both difficult subjects for a dyslexic. Hilary and Dave are extended family and much loved as are Christine and Roger. They have loved Erica and Alice and followed their paths throughout their lives.
Erica mastered many academic subjects, but she also spent much of her free time picking up new skills and adapting them to produce works of art. We had a glass replica of Coventry Cathedral constructed in hundreds of shards after visiting Chartres in France and seeing something similar. She hand built a light fitting nearly 3 foot long like an early flying kite which hung in our dining room. Her intensive application and mastery of her subjects earned her the highest grade possible at “A” Level.
In her late teens she accidentally met the senior lecturer at the British School of Osteopathy who encouraged her to holiday with Elaine and Tim in Cork, Ireland. While there, she took a work experience placement in an Osteopathy practice. This became her calling, and she went to the BSO in London, where her confidence/wit and warmth shone through. Mia Rabjohn and Bex became her lifelong friends as well as many others who have contacted us since her death.
At her graduation after 4 years of academic study and rigorous practice, she was handed her degree by Princess Anne who asked her what she was going to do next. In telling her she was leaving for Nova Scotia, Princess Anne gave a loud chuckle and wished her well.
From her late teens Erica began to suffer from a debilitating condition that was eventually confirmed to be Lupus, a cruel autoimmune disease. As a family at the time, we were told she had a 50% chance of reaching 30 and this would likely affect her ability to have children which was so important to her.
Her love of Osteopathy, her need for a job, the determination to overcome the adversity of a Lupus diagnosis and the kismet of a job offer all led to her first employment in Bridgewater Nova Scotia.
Lunenburg county opened its arms and welcomed Erica in a way that inspired her. She always found solace in open spaces, woodland and beaches, but now she could step out of her door and walk straight into them! Better still, there were the magnificent dark skies lit by uncountable bright stars.
As she connected to the place, she grew in confidence both personally and professionally. In short order, she met Stephen and his loving family who ‘grounded’ her in very practical and supportive ways.The slower pace of life in our maritime playground allowed Erica to develop a new level of confidence. When she faced professional obstacles, she simply set up her own flourishing business!!
Her growth gained further momentum… a house in the woods with a beaver pond….and then the big one… the arrival of beautiful Beatrice in a snow storm near the winter solstice, and “I play with sticks” Seoirse, close to the summer solstice.
Then there was the transformative experience of her time on the Isle of Arran that significantly deepened her connection to the earth and ‘Growing Freely’.
Erica was never one to stand still. She supported the Breast Feeding Programme which became very important in the early years. She gave frequent public talks to help people understand what osteopathy could do for them, spending hours afterwards talking to people who had problems or knew of loved ones who needed help. Erica’s keen interest in plants led her to undertake 2 intensive courses. One which really lit her interest was on the Isle of Arran. There she found her love of the Celtic culture which stimulated her deeper interest in folk music and in addition to her understanding of plants, our connection with nature, the Earth, moon and stars.
As her lupus symptoms slowly worsened, Erica realised that she could extend her career by further developing her skills in treating pregnant mums, infants and young children. Over three years she undertook intensive academic study and practical training at the Sutherland Cranial College. Over subsequent years she added a huge number of grateful Mums and Dads to her patient fanbase.
Though founded on practical and technical analysis of symptoms, her reputation was also based on her compassionate insight, humanity and simple kindness. We are all so proud of what she achieved.
Erica’s sudden and premature death is a tragedy, she leaves a gaping hole in the lives of our family a friends. She will also be deeply missed by a vast network patients and families for whom she cared passionately over many years and who in themselves became friends she very much looked forward to seeing..
Though immensely proud of the achievements in her career, Erica was above and beyond all else, a fiercely proud wife and mother. She was determined to prepare her children for their lives, never to settle for second best if you could do better, to be kind, thoughtful, to think of others and be a part of the community.
She is survived by husband Stephen Dicks, Ken and Laura and the entire Dicks family, daughter Beatrice, son Seoirse, sister Alice, brother-in-law Zander, grandmother Fay and the wider UK-based Poole family, mum Carolyn and dad Mark
Erica fought Lupus for 25 years, and she never gave in. She was part of a number of research projects run at Dalhousie and though there has been progress in research regarding causes of, and treatments for patients suffering from Lupus, there is more work to be done. If you would like to honour Erica’s memory in a practical manner, please donate to their research via 
www.lupuscanada.org
Arrangements entrusted to Personal care Cremations& Memorial Services.
PRINTABLE VERSION
SERVICES & GATHERINGS
I was extremely saddened to learn of Erica’s passing. To say that she played an important part in my health journey is an understatement.
I was a patient of Erica’s from the time she arrived in Bridgewater until COVID. Eventually, the distance and travel difficulties made it harder for me to continue making the hour-long drive each way for appointments. She was an angel, and through her exceptional osteopathic expertise and care, I was able to function so much better.
I had my first knee replacement in 2007, and with Erica’s continued assistance over the years, I credit her with being a key figure in delaying my second surgery. She helped me remain active and manage my pain, and I will always be grateful for that.
I found Erica to be extremely knowledgeable, competent, empathetic, compassionate, generous, and wonderful in so many ways. We had many interesting conversations over the years, and although I did not know her socially, I felt a genuine connection and had enormous respect and affection for her.
Learning of her sudden passing has made me realize even more how fortunate I was to have known her and to have benefited from her remarkable care.
My sincerest sympathy goes to her husband, her children, and all of her family, friends, colleagues, and the many people in her community whose lives she touched. She was clearly much loved, and deservedly so.
I was privileged to have known Erica, and I will always remember her with gratitude and great affection.
I was a patient of Erica when she first set up practice in n.s.. Erica and I had so many laughs and great conversations while she manipulated my body, stretched me out, encouraged multiple mussel spasms. Fun times. She would ask me if I was OK and I would laugh and say yes keep going.
She knew exactly what was wrong with my body in seconds. In fact she would always ask what was wrong and I would say you’ll know soon enough.
She treated me for many different ailments and I always got better.
I have great memories of erica the times we shared together and the conversations regarding the natural world.
Sitting at my desk on Thursday, one of my coworkers had said that LifeFlight had touched down in Keji. My heart always drops a little when I hear or see LifeFlight and I usually say a little prayer.
Fast forward to Saturday, I open my FB app around 5pm to see a shocking post from Le Vie en Danse studio and same feeling hits – my heart drops. What happened so suddenly to the BEYOND beautiful person that both of my girls and I were so lucky to have the opportunity to have known in our lives. Erica always had the ability to hold so much space, had incredible healing and knowledge that will always stay with us.
I hold both grief, sadness and above all the deepest love for her family. I will miss dear Erica and will always have the fondest memories of her.
I am truly saddened by your loss. I met Erica when she was planning for her wedding. She adored fairy lights ( white mini lights), and she was so excited to be getting married. We met up again when I had treatment with her, She was just amazing. Soar with the angels Erica. My condolences to your entire family
Sincerely,
Heather Brine
Erica, where do i start. For over 21 years you were the person who made me feel better in more ways than osteopathy. We talked and confided about personal, professional and medical. You grounded me in so many ways and always provided me with positives, encouragement and genuine love. I will miss our visits, messages, and conversation always. I know you will still be guiding us but your presence will forever be missed. Thank you for being part of my life and for the privelege of being able to call you my friend. Always in my heart Luv!
Upnamoltdis nitape’skw.
We will hold ceremony for you on the Fall equinox.
Sending love to your family, and precious children.
♥️With such a broken heart… I am sending so much love to you all, especially to both of you ~ kiddos.
Your mama is the sweetest and brightest fairy I have ever met, honestly, and while amongst the flowers her wings sprouted and magic was always brewing. You have her in you, around you, underneath you and above you, forever. If you need anything great or small, I am here. 🧚🏻♂️
My heart aches for the Poole and Dicks families. Erica was absolutely the most unpretentious person who had a genuine beautiful smile for all she encountered. She helped me many years ago with stomach issues no one else detected and I never forgot her professionalism and care. May you find peace not that she passed but that she lived her best life. RIP beautiful Lady!
Erica, you are gone way too soon. You were the most kind, loving and gentle soul. I always enjoyed our chats in the store. You will be missed by so many. Sending my heartfelt condolences to Steve, your loving children and all of your family. You will never be forgotten ♥️
Dearest Erica, finding words to capture fully the beauty that you brought to this world feels impossible, and yet your family has written a beautiful testament to who you were and what you have created in this life.
When my family came to the South Shore, brand new baby in tow, and in the thick of radical life transformation, you were an integral part of the community that opened its arms to me. Through a shared passion for caring for Mothers and babies, lifelong learning, and a bit of contemplating the universe, the ancestors, and the spirits, we made a seemingly immediate and beautiful professional connection and friendship.
Through creative collaboration in your sunny treatment space, lots of laughs, and lots of great questions, spending time in your presence felt like both a warm hug and a little nudge to keep growing. Your impact in our community has been profound. I have seen with my own eyes and heard from countless mothers of young babies just how tenderly you held them, providing space to heal and thrive.
In recent weeks, following the birth to my second child, you witnessed me in some of my most tender and challenging moments, and created a soft place to land while we navigated it all. You were able to witness and heal parts of my story that I did not yet fully comprehend. You generously offered your care, all while recovering from a broken foot and navigating the Big Ex with your children.
One thing that stood out to me while we discussed navigating challenges (me-my recent birth trauma, and you-your broken foot), was the way you always shone light on the good. You said “Although we don’t wish for trauma, isn’t it amazing to see the net that holds you up and the community who arrives when you go through it?”
Erica, you were a pillar in my finding community, through the good times and hard times. I know you would be touched by those (“the net”) who have come to hold your family and loved ones while trying to find steadiness after losing you. A gaping hole is felt in this community that you were such an integral part of, and you leave this world better by inspiring those of us still here to be more like you.
I feel deep gratitude that our lives crossed paths in this place for some time. Until we meet again, my sweet friend. Thank you.
I met Erica when my (then) baby son was a patient of hers, and I was so worried after an accident he had had. Erica put me at ease right away and I was so amazed by her ability to work so gently with a very young child. Her beautiful, plant-filled and colourful work space left an impression that I still carry today- everything about my visits with her were in stark contrast to other clinical spaces I’ve been.
Since then, as a breastfeeding mother, I’ve come across countless other mothers in our community who have been supported by her. Though I didn’t know her well, her loss is profound in our community. Her gentleness and intuition at such a tender time of life (for both postpartum mothers and children) is life-changing.
Holding all of those who loved her in my heart.
They only make one like you, Erica. Your community will miss you sorely. Sending love to your beautiful family and friends. Thanks for everything.
I’m so deeply, deeply sorry for the loss of Erica. I met her and her lovely family years ago when working at an animal shelter and helped her connect with a wonderful, wiry dog. It was a privilege to get to reconnect with her again years later while working at a veterinary hospital. Her warmth and kindness touched so many people. My heart goes out to her lovely parents, her sister, her husband, and her beautiful children. Thinking of you all.
I am saddened by the passing of Erica. Our world needs more people like Erica. My condolences to her family.
I was saddened to hear of Erica’s passing. I was a patient of Erica’s for years. I always told her that she had magic fingers. She was an amazing
and caring osteopath. She had a great sense of humour and we shared a lot of laughs together.
She loved Keji and knew that my husband and I volunteered with the blandings turtle program. She always had a lot of questions and so interested.
Today, I am thinking of all her family and am sending my sincere condolences.
I first met Erica when my son was a newborn, waking every hour through the night, and I was completely unraveling. She was, without question, the absolute best person on this earth to guide me through my journey into motherhood—not just then, but later with my daughter too. I grew to love her almost instantly.
Over the years, whenever I was struggling, Erica’s voice messages had a way of bringing tears to my eyes and immediate strength to my heart. To me, she was the healer and fixer of everything: body, mind, and soul. She was so incredibly brilliant, yet disarmingly gentle—truly the kindest, most empathetic human being I have ever known.
The last time we were together, she was treating my daughter, and she and Bea brought in their bunny rabbit to rest on her belly so she would feel calm and relaxed. That was Erica: turning every space she inhabited into something wholesome, loving, and deeply safe.
My heart aches for her family and will always hold a space just for her. Thank you, Erica, for your kindness, your genius, and the profound mark you made on my life. You truly left this world a softer, better place. ❤️❤️❤️
Erica was such a beautiful soul, I only had the chance to know her as a customer at Island View Restaurant, in which I waited on her a few times over the past 3 years, but she had a personality that just soothed your soul. She was full of wit and spunk and always smiling.
May her family find comfort in the memories.
Erica you where taken way to soon!!!.Deepest sympathy to your 2 angels,your children.To your partner in life,and to all family,friends, and all who’s lives you touched.God bless and rest in peace.
I am so shocked and saddened to hear of Erica’s passing, as I know many, many others are. My heartfelt condolences to all the family. Erica helped me so much with her thoughtful care and expertise and equally with her empathy, encouragement and positive outlook. She was truly irreplaceable. I will also miss the lovely and welcoming atmosphere of her workplace in her parents’ country home. My heart goes out to her family especially, and everyone who will miss her.
Erica was the best osteopath I ever met. She always explained everything and generously shared self help tips and education. Many times while treating others she herself was enduring pain.
Beyond being an osteopath I knew from our conversations she was such a caring and generous person. She will be missed by myself and so many others in so many ways; and how much more by her immediate family. I’m praying for you all.
We have lost a beautiful, loving, wonderful woman who has helped so many people through her osteopathic work, her generosity of her time to her community and just being there to listen and talk and sooth and heal.
Thinking of all of Erica’s family at this time. Hold each other close and have wonderful memories of this fabulous, wonderful woman, mother, healer and friend. 💔
You are all in my thoughts and prayer
In Loving Memory of Erica ❤️
Erica, known to me as “Dr. Erica,” was truly a blessing in my life. She helped me through so many troubles and was, without a doubt, the best osteopath I could have ever asked for.
She was kind, loving, compassionate, and had the biggest heart. During my treatments, she didn’t just care for my physical health—she cared about me. She would take the time to give me little therapy sessions when I was struggling with depression and sadness. She always knew just what to say to help lift my spirits.
She would send me little voice messages to perk me up, and if there was an exercise I needed to do, I would videotape myself doing it. Then she would send me a video of herself doing it so I could make sure I was doing it correctly. That’s just the kind of person Erica was—always willing to go that extra mile to help someone.
This morning, I listened to some of her messages, and hearing her voice again brought so many emotions. All I could do was cry. She truly was a blessing to so many people and to our entire community. She was always helping others, giving her time, and taking part in events with her children. She touched so many lives and will be deeply missed.
I’m going to miss going up to her parents’ home for my treatments and seeing all the family, the children and animals running around.
But there is one little memory that always makes me smile. ❤️
I remember Erica concentrating so hard, trying to figure out what to do with my neck, when Rosie the cat jumped up on my belly, curled up, and went fast asleep. 🐈
You were more than my osteopath. You were my friend, my encourager, my therapist when I needed one, and someone who genuinely cared.
I will miss you more than words can say, my dear friend. Thank you for everything you did for me and for so many others. Your kindness, your laughter, your heart, and your beautiful spirit will never be forgotten.
Rest peacefully, Dr. Erica. ❤️
You were truly a blessing.
Erica family!
Dear Erica was the smartest, careing, loving person , to everyone who knew her! We were treated with respect, in so many ways!
Thinking of all her family, especially her dear children! I pray that God will help them ,as she was a wonderful Momma! Give Steve the courage and guidance to carry on!
Sympathy and prayers!
Genevieve Bond