Dr. Sharon Catherine Caughey

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sharon Catherine Caughey at her home, surrounded by her family, on January 23, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Throughout her journey, she maintained an active and optimistic spirit, spending her days enjoying bike rides along the Rideau River with her husband, hosting video calls with her boys, and enjoying magical moments with friends, family, and colleagues.

Sharon leaves behind her husband of 30 years, Fred Pelletier, her two sons, Matt and Jeff, and her brothers Al (Heather) and David (Stella). She was predeceased by her parents, Michael Caughey (Sue Hamilton) and Margaret Caughey. Her many nephews, nieces, cousins, and in-laws will miss her dearly.

Sharon was born in London, England and moved to Canada when she was three years old. After a brief residence in the Netherlands, her family settled permanently in Ottawa in 1970.

Sharon graduated from Bell High School in Ottawa. She was a keen student and was passionately involved in the high school music program. Music brought her great joy and many close connections. Over her lifetime, she kept many of these close friendships and was always excited for the reunions.

Sharon attended Queen's University in Kingston, where she received her Doctor of Medicine (MD). As a student in the Faculty of Medicine, she became the first female president of the Queen’s Aesculapian Society. After receiving her MD, she completed her residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology in Kingston.

Sharon then moved to Ottawa, where she began an energetic, compassionate career in the field of women’s health care. She established a private practice and performed her Obstetrics and Gynecology work at the Riverside Hospital. She then moved to the Ottawa Hospital and excelled in her delivery of care and her development of team excellence.

In 2007, Sharon received a Compass Award from The Ottawa Hospital for her display of outstanding commitment to quality in the birthing unit through her leadership and participation in committees and research, and by encouraging others to participate in quality assurance. She was a strong force in the development of patient safety systems that have remained in place at The Ottawa hospital.

In 2009, Sharon joined the Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA) and began a new chapter, during which she continued to provide invaluable contributions to the

medical community. She soon developed a reputation for careful analytical work, and she became known also for her warm, encouraging approach to consultation and mentorship.

Sharon was devoted to her family. She inspired adventurous vacationing, skiing, fishing, cycling, hiking, and frequent celebrations. Her emphasis on the importance of extended family was always evident, and she never missed an opportunity to have a party, a dinner, or a cup of tea with one of her brothers or other family members. She had a special gift for making people feel valued and happy.

During her final days, Sharon remained determined and resilient, and she was continually mindful of her family, friends and colleagues. She spent her valuable time expressing her heartfelt appreciation for the many people who had accompanied her as she completed her journey. She spoke fondly about the conscientious care provided by the nurses on the second floor of the Cancer Centre. Our deepest thanks to Dr. Amirrtha Srikanthan, The Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre, who formed a wonderful collaboration with Sharon. And many thanks to Dr. Cindy Wang, Bytown Palliative Medicine, for the collaboration she formed with Fred and Sharon throughout the final journey. Sharon and her family were blessed by the continual love and support of our good friend Carolyn Atkinson; words will never capture our appreciation.

A Celebration of Sharon’s life will be held on March 7, 2026, at The National Arts Centre in the Canada Room, from 2pm to 5pm. Words of remembrance will commence at 2:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to any organization that promotes excellence in women’s cancer treatment or to a charity of your choice.