Catherine (Kate) Akagi, acting mayor of Saint Andrews, longtime educator and recipient of the Order of New Brunswick, is being remembered as a deeply committed community leader whose impact will be felt for generations following her death this weekend.
Born and raised on Indian Point, Akagi remained closely tied to her home community throughout her life. She spent more than 30 years as a teacher, and in retirement continued to share her knowledge as an Indigenous educator, working with NBCC Saint Andrews and Anglophone School District South.
A member of the Skutik tribe of the Peskotomuhkati Nation, Akagi was widely respected for her efforts to increase awareness and understanding of First Nations history and culture. In Saint Andrews, she helped lead local observances of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and supported initiatives that brought Indigenous voices and culture into the public space.
Her commitment to the community extended well beyond her professional work. Akagi was known for her volunteerism with groups such as Charlotte Dial-A-Ride and the Open Door Program, and for quietly stepping in wherever help was needed and community events, fundraisers, and initiatives.
Akagi was first elected to council in 2008, serving until 2016. She returned in a 2018 byelection and was re-elected in 2021, when she was also chosen by council as deputy mayor. In 2023, she was appointed to the Order of New Brunswick, one of the province’s highest honours, in recognition of her contributions to education, Indigenous advocacy and community life. She was also awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in 2025 for her ongoing commitment to community betterment and public service.
She is being remembered not only for her years of public service, but for the way she carried it out: with care, humility and a deep sense of responsibility to the community she called home.
Conservative MP John Williamson said on social media he was saddened by Akagi’s passing.
“She spent countless hours volunteering throughout southern New Brunswick to improve outcomes for so many residents of Charlotte County,” he wrote. “Kate will be dearly missed by everyone who knew her. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends and the entire community of Saint Andrews during this difficult time.”
Fellow Charlotte County Mayor Denny Cogswell also extended his condolences.
“Kate will be greatly missed not only in her community of Saint Andrews but all of Southwest (New Brunswick) where she volunteered many hours in multiple organizations,” he wrote. “The service you have provided to our region has not gone unnoticed and will always be remembered.”
The Southwest New Brunswick Service Commission, for which Akagi was a board member, also extended its thoughts, noting her long-time volunteerism.
“Our most sincere condolences go out to the family of Catherine (Kate) Akagi. Kate was acting mayor of Saint Andrews and a valued member of our board. She was also a very active driver for Charlotte Dial-a-ride. Her contributions to the Southwest community will be sorely missed. Rest in peace, K8,” the post said.
The Saint Andrews Chamber of Commerce also released a statement.
“The Chamber of Commerce is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Catherine (Kate) Akagi, who served our community with dedication, integrity and compassion,” it said. “Kate’s commitment to public service and her tireless efforts to strengthen our community left a lasting impact on residents, businesses and colleagues alike.”
The organizations board of directors said Akagi will be greatly missed and her contributions would never be forgotten.
