Jennifer Laidley and David Skinner Accident Gabriola, BC Death and Obituary – Community Mourns Friends Killed in French Polynesia Diving Accident

The Gabriola, British Columbia, community is mourning the reported accidental deaths of Jennefer Laidley and David Skinner, two friends remembered for their warmth, kindness, and meaningful connections with people across the island and beyond. The pair died in a diving accident in French Polynesia while travelling together on a special trip planned around David’s 70th birthday.

According to an October 10 update shared by Robert Clift, Jennefer and David were attending an academic conference in French Polynesia before combining the trip with a vacation. News of their deaths has brought profound sadness to friends, colleagues, and community members connected to them through Gabriola, York University, activism, and other social networks.

The announcement was initially shared by friends who wanted to ensure that people who knew the pair received the news directly rather than hearing it through rumours. A subsequent clarification emphasized that two people named David Skinner lived on Gabriola and apologized for the confusion caused among friends of the surviving David Skinner. The David Skinner being mourned was described as a retired communications professor from York University who lived on Pat Burns.

Jennefer and David were described as beloved members of their community and vibrant people who embraced life. Friends particularly remembered Jennefer’s affectionate habit of greeting people with hugs, a small but meaningful gesture that reflected the warmth others associated with her.

Plans are underway for memorial gatherings to honour their lives. At least two services are expected: one on Gabriola, where they were cherished members of the community, and another for family in the Lower Mainland. Organizers have indicated that details will be shared when arrangements are finalized.

Friends have also expressed concern for Jennefer’s family, including her mother, Irene Laidley, and her brother, Grant Laidley, as they navigate the difficult days following the loss. Community members have been encouraged to offer patience and support while the family manages arrangements and responds to messages of condolence.

The deaths of Jennefer Laidley and David Skinner have left friends grieving a sudden and devastating loss. As memorial plans develop, those who knew them are remembering their friendship, generosity, and the connections they built throughout their lives.