Sister Norma Gallant has spent nearly four decades quietly shaping the fabric of Trail through compassion and an unwavering commitment to others.
Her life stands as a testament to service, education, and community leadership.
This year, her extraordinary contributions are being formally recognized with the Trail-Warfield Citizen of the Year award.
Arriving in Trail in 1988 to teach Grade 2 at St. Michael’s Catholic School, Sister Norma initially planned to stay for only a year.
Thirty-seven years later, she remains a beloved figure, having touched countless lives through her teaching, ministry, and volunteer work.
Known affectionately as “the flying nun” for her energetic pace and boundless enthusiasm, Sister Norma’s presence is felt throughout the region.
Her involvement spans not just her home parish but many civic and charitable organizations across Trail, Warfield, Rossland, and Fruitvale.
In 2025, Sister Norma marks a milestone of 65 years since professing her vows — 35 of which have been spent serving the people of Trail.
During that time, she has not only educated young minds but also ministered to the sick and those at the end of life, supported families through baptisms, marriages, and funerals, and offered steady support to those facing hardship.
Her community work extends well beyond her parish.
She is an active participant in groups such as the Trail and District Ministerial, WINS Transition House, Sanctuary Drop-In Centre, the Clubhouse, and the Refugee Committee.
She also supports campaigns like Pro Life, the White Ribbon Campaign, the Salvation Army Food Bank, and Christmas Gift Programs.
Her care for the elderly reaches into residences including Columbia View Lodge, Rose Wood Village, Mountain Side Village, and Poplar Ridge Pavilion.
Through her tireless efforts, Sister Norma has built strong connections with residents from all walks of life, often seen chatting warmly with neighbours or sitting around the dinner table of families she has helped over the years.
Sister Norma’s contributions have not gone unnoticed.
She previously received the local Kiwanis’ Church and Community Service Award, which honours individuals who live out their faith through meaningful community action.
Those nominating Sister Norma for Citizen of the Year emphasize that this recognition is not simply about listing her many accomplishments but about honouring the spirit of service and joy she brings to the community.
Her deep compassion, boundless energy, and commitment to those most in need have touched lives and left a lasting impact in every neighbourhood, home, and community gathering place in Greater Trail.
As one supporter noted, Sister Norma’s life is a testament to the difference one person can make — not through grand gestures but through daily acts of love, kindness, and connection.
All are welcome to celebrate Sister Norma at a special event that, as tradition holds, opens Silver City Days.
The public celebration will take place Tuesday, May 6, at 7 p.m. in the St. Michael’s Catholic School gym.
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