Murray Gordon Farnell

Farnell, Murray Gordon – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Murray Gordon Farnell on May 30, 2025, at the age of 83. He passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family in Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital.

Born in Upper Musquodoboit, he was a son of Jennie Mae (Murray) and George Gordon “Bub” Farnell. He spent many of his early years on his grandparent’s farm (Ada and MacLean Murray) on Tatamagouche Mountain.

Murray was a husband to Dianne (MacKay) Farnell for over 60 years, father to daughters, Wanda Farnell, Janette (Farnell) Wallace and grandfather to her children, Dylan, Noah and Joely Wallace.

Murray is survived by his siblings, Dianne (Charlie) Johnson, Greg (Karen) Farnell; sister-in-law, Valerie Farnell; along with Uncle Johnny Murray; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his beloved brother, Richard Farnell.

A lifelong avid sports fan with a love and great knowledge of stats, facts and figures of all things sports related, especially for his favourite teams – the Boston Bruins, Boston Celtics and Boston Red Sox. Dad was a competitive athlete for most of his life and spent many summers on the ballfield either playing or coaching, most memorably with the Musquodoboit Marquis. In his later years, he traded the ballfield for the golf course and was a former member of Truro Golf and Country Club as well as Oakfield Golf and Country Club where he scored his hole in one!

Murray retired from the Enfield Home Hardware store and worked for various companies throughout his life such as Maritime Beverages, Warnock Hersey and a brief time with the Royal Canadian Navy. Murray is one of the longest serving members of the Enfield branch of the Royal Canadian Legion with close to 60 years of membership.

Dad loved to travel throughout Canada and the US with Mom to sports events and to see his favourite musicians, The Statler Brothers. Great memories were made from times with their motorhome being snowbirds in Florida along with trips out west and to Ontario to visit family and special trips to New York City with Richard and taking his kids to Disney World. Dad also liked to tease and play practical jokes on his friends and family, especially Mom. He will be missed and we will remember his playful spirit with a smile and a laugh.

A special thank you goes out to the palliative care staff of Colchester East Hants Health Centre as well as the staff of Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital for their excellent care and compassion to both Dad and Mom during his last days. Dad also wanted to make sure his sister, Dianne and brother, Greg were thanked for their many visits and newspaper deliveries as well as to neighbour, Jerry Mahoney for all his continuous help.

A Royal Canadian Legion service will be held on June 4, 2025 at 2 p.m. in Enfield Branch #133.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Louis "Louie" Dwight Johnson

Johnson, Louis “Louie” Dwight – It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the passing of Louis “Louie” Dwight Johnson on May 16, 2025, at the age of 75.

Born in Truro, Louie was a son of the late Lloyd and Josephine (Richard) Johnson of Londonderry, Colchester County, who shaped the kind and caring person he would become.

Louie is survived by nieces, nephews, cousins and many lifelong friends.

Besides his parents, Louie was predeceased by brother, Arthur; sister, Joanne (Bam) Joseph and the love of his life, Rose Richards.

Louie lived and worked most of his life in Londonderry, working at L&M Highland Outfitters for many years. He took pride in every piper’s bag he stitched.

A special thank you to Tyrone McMullen and Sally Richards.

Cremation has taken place.

There will be a graveside gathering in St. Ambrose Cemetery, Londonderry, followed by a Celebration of Life on July 19 in Londonderry Hall, 1 – 4 p.m.

“Until we meet again”

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Leonard Ivan Dickie

Dickie, Leonard Ivan – It is with deep sadness that the family of Leonard Ivan Dickie announce his peaceful passing on May 27, 2025 in Dartmouth General Hospital.

Leonard was a son of the late Ivan Dickie and Muriel (Dickie) McCurdy. He grew up in Meagher’s Grant and carried the values of community, hard work and kindness with him throughout his life.

Leonard is survived by his devoted wife, Geraldine (Day); son, Jeffrey (Angela); daughter, Janice (Kenneth); and his cherished grandchildren, Jacob, Eva and Kara. He is also survived by his brother, Ronald (Wanda); sister, Marina; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Marian.

Leonard began his career at Halifax Ignition before becoming a partner in Metric Electric. He later worked at Rand Auto Electric and went on to establish his own business, Lenco Electric Ltd. Even after his retirement, Leonard continued working at the container terminal in Halifax, eventually serving as a Commissionaire at the same location – demonstrating his lifelong commitment to hard work and community.

Known for his easygoing nature and ever-present smile, Leonard was always ready to lend a helping hand. He found great joy in spending time with his family, especially at “The Camp” and was happiest in the company of his grandchildren. He also spent many fulfilling years working on the family farm and tackling projects with his brother, Ron.

Cremation has taken place.

A funeral for family will be held on Saturday, May 31, 11 a.m. in St. James United Church, Meagher’s Grant. A reception will follow in Meagher’s Grant Community Hall, 12-2 p.m., where all who wish to pay their respects are welcome.

Family flowers only, please.

In Leonard’s memory, donations may be made to the Mission to Seafarers Halifax or a charity of your choice.

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Ronald Douglas and Thelma May (Fraser) Stewart

Stewart, Ronald Douglas – Age 85 and Thelma May (Fraser) Stewart, age 81 of Middle Musquodoboit. We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our parents on May 23, 2025 in Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital.

Dad was born in Upper Musquodoboit and was a son of the late Robert and Aileen (Higgins) Stewart.

Mom was born in Higginsville and was a daughter of the late Lorne and Vera (Miller) Fraser.

Mom and Dad were married June 1, 1963.

Dad’s life was spent farming with Carl Grant Farm Limited. Mom enjoyed being a homemaker and raising their three children. She was especially proud of her 1st place ribbon she won at the Halifax County Exhibition for her quilting entry. They enjoyed playing crib at the Fellowship Hall and even enjoyed a game with each other except when Dad won; she was not a good loser.

Family gatherings at Stewart Hill were important to them. They also enjoyed when Cecil and Phyllis stopped by to go for a drive to count the deer.

They will always be loved and missed by son, Wesley; daughters, Ronalda (Gene), Iris; grandchildren, Ryan (Alissa), Taylor (Jillisa), Katlynn (Brett); great-grandchildren, Owen, Reegann, Lyam, Austin, Kathryn, Addilyn, an expected great-grandson in August; step-grandchildren, Taylor, Alayna, Aleeya; Dad’s siblings, Joan (Ron), Sue, Marian (Frank), Joe, Connie; Mom’s siblings, Robert (Corinne), Lorna, Anita (Austin), Blanche (Francis), Tim; and several nieces and nephews.

Dad was predeceased by brothers, Sandy and Jim; brothers-in-law, Gordon and Jeff.

Mom was predeceased by brother-in-law, Chris.

Cremation has taken place.

Memorial donations in their memory may be made to Canadian Cancer Society, Heart and Stroke Foundation or Upper Musquodoboit Fellowship Hall.

A special thank you to Dr. Karen Day and nursing staff of Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital for the great care Dad and Mom received.

A Celebration of Life will be held 2 – 4 p.m. on June 7 in Upper Musquodoboit Fellowship Hall.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Max March

March, Max – passed away after a brief illness on May 24, 2025 at the age of 80.

Max was born in Corner Brook, NL. He was predeceased by his parents, Cyril and Elsie March; sisters, Gladys, Lorraine and brother, Frank.

He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Clara; children, Sandra (Trevor), Rodney (Sheryl), Tammy (George); grandchildren, Colby, Allie, Nicholas, Amanda, Abby, Mattis; and siblings, Joan Rowe, Jerry March, Linda Piercey (Lloyd), Ruth Murphy and Marilyn Whalen.

Max’s early years were spent in Little Rapids, NL where he raised his family. He enjoyed the outdoors especially moose hunting and fishing.

He and his wife, Clara later moved to Alberta and settled in the small welcoming community of Rochester. Max worked as a Red Seal Carpenter in the construction industry of Fort McMurray until retirement.

Max and Clara then moved to Shubenacadie where he cherished his 13 acres of land and found joy and endless projects on his tractor and the sweet reward of making maple syrup.

Whether he was embarking on long, leisurely drives or enjoying “good grub”, his love for life was inspiring. His commitment to his faith was unwavering, finding peace and community in attending church.

He was a loving husband, father and grandfather and was affectionately known as “Pop”.

Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Visitation will take place Wednesday, May 28 at 1 p.m. in The People’s Church, Truro. A Celebration of Max’s Life will follow at 2 p.m. with Pastor Ken Fillmore officiating. The family will receive guests in the church following the service. Max will then be laid to rest in Gays River United Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to ShareWord Global (Gideon’s Bible).

A special thank you to Pastor Fillmore, the church community and all the doctors and nurses and Max’s entire care team in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro for their kindness and compassion.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Susan Elizabeth Horne

Horne, Susan Elizabeth - age 61 of Truro and formerly of Enfield, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2025 in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro surrounded by love.

She was a beloved daughter of Michael and Marie (MacDonnell) Horne of Enfield.

She will be forever loved and missed by her daughter, Lyndsay; her partner of many years, Danny McLean; sisters, Angela Wellwood (Ted) and Lori Horne. She is also survived by her nephew, nieces and their children.

Susan loved children and her fur babies (and shamelessly spoiled them!) She enjoyed puzzles, crocheting, and many different crafts. She also loved going to yard sales and thrift stores with her close friends.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Funeral service will be held at St. Bernard's church in Enfield on May 29th at 11 a.m.

Special thanks to the Palliative Care Team at Colchester East Hants Health Centre for their excellent and compassionate care during this difficult time.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Victor Allan Cox

Cox, Victor Allan – Age 79, of Dartmouth and formerly of Otterbrook, passed away May 18, 2025 in Glasgow Hall, Dartmouth.

Born in Truro, he was a son of the late Sidney and Jean (Blaikie) Cox.

Victor grew up in Otterbrook and after graduating from high school, he went to Halifax where he earned his degree in accounting. He worked first as a self-employed bookkeeper and later as an auditor in Halifax for several firms before going to Ontario where he worked in Waterloo. From there he moved to Kitchener and then to British Columbia before moving back to Nova Scotia and settling in Dartmouth. He was a financial advisor for Club 24 in Dartmouth. Victor was a soft-spoken, quiet, kind and caring man. He loved music, especially popular music, reading mystery books, doing crossword and jigsaw puzzles, and he loved horses.

Surviving are siblings, Shirley (Gilbert) White, Bruce (Linda), Ian (Susan), Velda (Victor) Lewicki; several nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by sisters, Berna, Helen and Maxine in infancy.

Cremation has taken place.

A graveside service will be held in Riverside Cemetery, Upper Stewiacke at 2 p.m. on May 27.

Memorial donations may be made to Club 24 or a charity of choice.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Jackie Wayne Manley

Manley, Jackie Wayne - Age 74 of Bible Hill, passed away on May 15, 2025 in Colchester East Hants Health Centre with his loving wife, Mary at his side.

Jackie was a son of Frederick and Annie (Sanford) Manley of East Noel.

Jackie acquired the gift of music at an early age. One of his fondest memories was playing music along side of his family on his grandparents’ lawn in Walton. At the age of four, Jackie and his sister, Mary won their first talent show singing together while their mother, Annie played the guitar. All of this has led to a lifetime of music for Jackie who was very modest about his talent. Jackie loved to perform and had many bands over the years. He was always willing to participate in benefit concerts whenever he was asked. Jack was a good friend and neighbour, he lived by the motto " to have a friend, you have to be a friend".

He loved to joke and tease, and he was known for his hearty laugh.

As a young teenager Jack worked at Sunny Point Farm in Noel for William and his son, Eef, this job was Jacks favorite and he could often be heard speaking fondly of this time. Jack went on to work for DOT and retired from there in 2003. Jack was not one to sit still and continued to work in areas that more suited his generous, helpful and outgoing personality; driving a bus for CTCL, driving taxi and he was a very popular VON driver.

Jack had a soft spot for all children, especially his numerous his nieces and nephews. He and Mary were honoured to have been godparents to many children over the years and took their role seriously, staying in close contact with all of them.

One of Jack’s most joyful roles in life was playing Santa Claus. With his hearty laugh and twinkle in his eye, he was the perfect stand-in when the real Santa couldn’t be there in person. Over the years, he brought Christmas magic to countless children by making calls to let them know Santa was watching, asking about their wish lists, and reminding them to be tucked into bed on Christmas Eve because he’d be stopping by. His voice, full of warmth and wonder, lit up little hearts and brought smiles to parents, too. Santa may never be able to replace “Santa Jack,” but his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of the children—and the moms and dads—who believed in him.

Jackie is survived by his special treasures in life his wife of 55 years, Mary (Clarke); son Roary; sister, Mary Bond (Darrell); brother, Fred; sister-in-law, Maxine; special niece, Donna Brown and grandnieces, Brooke and Shianne.

He was predeceased by his parents, Frederick and Annie (Sanford) and brother, Clifford.

A Celebration of Life will be posted at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to Colchester East Hants Hospice Society or Canadian Liver Foundation

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Roderick Allan Francis MacPhee

MacPhee, Roderick Allan Francis - Fois Dhè dha anam. It is with deep love and sorrow in our hearts that we announce the passing of our son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend, Roderick Allan Francis MacPhee.

Born alongside his twin, Tara, in Halifax, NS, to Blanche and Frank MacPhee, Roddy was 36 years old when he passed in his sleep in Dartmouth, NS. Roddy was a unique individual who left a lasting imprint on everyone he knew. He was very passionate about the subjects he enjoyed, such as music, math, coding, and genealogy. He was always very enthusiastic to share everything he learned and knew about his passions with those he felt close to, even if sometimes they didn’t quite understand everything he told them. While not one to use direct words of affection, Roddy loved his family and friends fiercely. His love came through in the way he would tell you every prime number in the universe (so far), the 110th digit of pi (5, if you count the 3 at the start), how many generations back we were related to a particular person, or in pulling out his tin whistle from his hoodie pocket-full-of-treasures to play you a song he had learned. Roddy’s most recent passion was coding, and he threw himself into it like he did with all his interests, even starting to write a book for his nieces to teach them how to code. Roddy also showed his love through frequent reminders of the impending weather, important news headlines from around the world, tracking your flights online, sending you a wish for dopamine if you were having a hard time, and by always checking in with a “hope you have a good day.” Words cannot describe the kind-hearted and interesting person that he was. There was truly no one like our Roddy, son of Frank Roddie, Roddie Mel, Mel Roddie.

He was predeceased by his loving mother, Blanche MacPhee (Boisjoli), who gave her entire life to her children; his grandparents, Eileen, Roddie MacPhee, and Doris, Dollard Boisjoli; his aunts, Anne and Sharon; and uncles, Roy and Jean.

He leaves behind his father, Frank MacPhee (Debbie); loving sisters, Christa MacPhee (Chris), Annie Yerxa (Steven), Tara Ha (Anthony); brother, Graysen MacPhee; step-sisters, Kaitlin Lyons, Krystal Lyons; his nieces, Isabel Yerxa, Madeline Ha; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Remembrances may be made through contributions to Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia, or by messaging those you love to wish them a good day.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held on May 24th, from 1-4 p.m., in Head of Chezzetcook Lions Club Hall.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Bernice Lillian Isnor

Isnor, Bernice Lillian – passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025 in Russell Court in Shannex Moody Hall Complex, Halifax at the age of 104.

She was born in Italy Cross to Robie and Olive (Smeltzer) Herman.

Mom is lovingly remembered by sons, Ronald (Heather), Robert (Marian), Carl (Wanda), Paul, Gordon (Sharon); sister-in-law, Charlotte Herman; 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren, 9 great great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by husband, Ronald in 1988; daughters-in-law, Donna and Alice; brothers, Charles, Emerson, James, Eldon, Malcolm; and sisters, Freda, Doris, Norma and Audrey.

She completed her early education in Italy Cross, her senior in Bridgewater and her RN’s at The Nova Scotia Hospital in Dartmouth.

After her marriage, she was a stay-at-home Mom raising her boys on the farm as family was extremely important to her. After her boys left the nest, she upgraded her nursing license and worked as an RN until retirement.

Mom was a member of Gays River United Church, The Rebecca Lodge and Canadian Cancer Society.

Her extraordinary memory served her well answering genealogical questions, solving crossword puzzles and winning card games. She loved to knit - many sweaters, pairs of socks and mittens came off those needles.

A very special thanks to Dr. Iain MacNeil and to all the staff at Russell Court in Moody Hall for their care of Mom.

Cremation has taken place.

Funeral service will be held in Gays River United Church on May 27, at 2 p.m. followed by a reception downstairs.

 A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

William "Billy" George Shannon Jr.

Shannon, William “Billy” George Jr. - It is with tremendous grief that we announce the unexpected passing of a wonderful man, William “Billy” George Shannon Jr. He was born in Thunder Bay, Ontario, to parents William Shannon Sr. and Norma (McCoul) Shannon.

Billy was an exceptional father and grandfather who loved spending time with his family. He truly had the “gift of the gab” and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He made friends easily and left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

One of his greatest accomplishments was building his beloved home in Upper Stewiacke from the ground up. He was a man of many talents and was always “working” in the garage. He enjoyed puttering around the yard on his lawn mower, raking leaves, and experimenting with hobbies like woodworking, mechanics, racing, motorcycles, and being in his garage. 

He was a proud volunteer firefighter with the Upper Stewiacke Fire Department for many years. In his younger years, he worked at Michelin Tire and ran the Petro-Canada station in Upper Stewiacke alongside his father. Adventurous by nature, Billy drove race cars and worked on the ice roads. Later in life, he became a long-haul truck driver and loved the freedom of the open road. He was a free spirit and a dreamer.

Billy attended vocational school at CEC for autobody but learned much of what he knew from his father and uncle George. He had a deep love for antique cars and was an avid NASCAR fan, idolizing Dale Earnhardt Sr.

He had a soft spot for sweets and could often be caught sneaking ice cream or pink peppermints, even though he was diabetic—just like a mischievous child. Billy could make something from nothing and was always ready to offer a solution, even if it wasn’t the most orthodox. He worked hard and always tried his best.

In his later years, Billy became the man he always wanted to be—happy and at peace. His eyes sparkled when he was surrounded by his children, wife, and grandchildren. He was fun to tease and always a good sport.

He loved having morning coffee and watching shows with popcorn at night with the love of his life, Angela. He shared a close bond with his son-in-law, Carter Hatfield, often found tinkering with cars and trucks together. He adored playing and cuddling with his beloved dog-granddaughter, Charlie and cherished being at the dinner table with family, especially with his pride and joy, his most recent grandchild, Eleanor. 

A soft-spoken, good-natured man of few words, Billy has left a huge hole in our hearts. He was such a character and will be missed more than words can ever express.

Billy was predeceased by his parents, William Sr. and Norma Shannon.

He is survived by his loving wife of 24 years, Angela Shannon; children, Sarah and her children, Ashwin, Sebastian, Laila; Kyle (Amy) and their children, Logan, Chauntelle, Emma, Charlotte, Tyler, Kieran; Holly (Jake) and their daughter, Eleanor; Michaela (Carter); siblings, little brother, Johnny (Avis) and big sister, Marjorie (Gordon); nieces and nephews, Roger, Vicky, Laura, Danielle, Christian; along with many grandnieces and grandnephews.

A funeral service will be held on May 28 at 3 p.m. in Upper Stewiacke Fire Hall with Rev. Larry Harrison officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Eastville Cemetery, c/o 7651 Highway 289, Eastville, NS B0N 2P0 .

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Paul Chapman

Chapman, Paul - Age 83, formerly of Howie Centre, Nova Scotia, and most recently a resident of Glen Haven Manor in New Glasgow, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2025. Born in Halifax, he was the eldest son of the late Sidney and Kathleen (Creighton) Chapman. Although he primarily grew up in Dartmouth, the place he felt most at home was Cape Breton.

Paul set his sights on a career at sea early in life, leaving home in his teens. His lifelong passion for taking things apart and putting them back together led him to the engine rooms of the ships he sailed on. He quickly earned his Chief Engineer's ticket, paving the way for a distinguished career with Irving, CN Marine/Marine Atlantic, and Fednav. When he started in 1972, he held the distinction of being the youngest Chief Engineer to serve on the Nova Scotia–Newfoundland ferry runs. At Fednav, he contributed to the design and construction of several ships, including projects in shipyards in Norway, Korea, and Dubai. Paul finished his career "on the hard" with Transport Canada’s Ship Safety Division in Ottawa and Dartmouth, retiring as manager of the Sydney office. He never lost his yearning to be at sea.

Deeply committed to his community, Paul was a dedicated volunteer with Sydney’s Kiwanis and Kinsmen Clubs and the Coxheath Volunteer Fire Department.  His retirement did not slow him down -- he continued to lend his time to many events in the Sydney area, became a Cruise Ambassador, and was a longtime volunteer at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. He was especially proud of his involvement with the Orangedale Station Museum, which allowed him to indulge his lifelong fascination with trains.

Paul is survived by his daughters, Laura and Dawn; son-in-law, Mark; grandchildren, Maddison, Nathan and Drew. He also leaves behind his sister, Leda; brothers, Michael (Carol) and Perry (Pat); sister-in-law, Joan; nieces, Pamela, Nicola and Sarah; nephews, Grant, Chris, Rob, Michael and Andrew, as well as his Chapman and Creighton cousins. Paul was predeceased by his parents and brother, Bob.

Paul treasured his many friends over the years and always spoke of them with great warmth, such as Donnie MacRae who kept a close and caring eye on him as his health declined. He particularly enjoyed his morning gab and Tim's coffee with "the boys" in Sydney. Once in Glen Haven, he was blessed with the friendship of Van MacLeod who delivered his favourite medium black dark roast on a daily basis, always staying for a chat to enjoy Paul's stories.

The family extends much gratitude to brother, Michael for his stewardship of Paul's medical and personal affairs when he became ill during the height of the pandemic and continuing this responsibility even now. Special thanks also to the compassionate staff at Glen Haven Manor for their care and support throughout Paul’s time there.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 70, Stewiacke, NS, on June 2 at 2 p.m. Donations in Paul’s memory may be made to Caleb’s Courage with the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation (calebscourage.com) or to a charity of one’s choice.

A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.

Joanna Joyce (Dickie) Clark

Clark, Joanna Joyce (Dickie) – Age 50 of Meaghers Grant, passed away May 3, 2025 at home.

Born in Squamish, British Columbia, she was the daughter of Linda Hubbard, Lillooet, BC; and Rod (Cheryl) Dickie, Meaghers Grant.

Joanna was a graduate of MRHS ’93 and went on to study business in Mount Saint Vincent University. She pursued her love of cooking and baking and spent years pleasing folks with her culinary delights, taking pride in her cheesecakes and providing for all the special occasions.

Joanna faced many health struggles over the past 20 years especially complications of diabetes.

Besides her parents, Joanna is survived by son, Alex Clark (Emilie Fowler); step-grandchildren, Isaac and Caleb Holman; brother, James “Jamie” Dickie (Renee Whitesell); caregiver and friend, Pat Buote; her Clark family of British Columbia and her precious kitty, Pennywise.

She was predeceased by grandparents, Beryl and Jim Dickie; Daisy Scott.

Her many struggles were faced with determination and strength.

Sincere thanks to Musquodoboit Valley Family Practice for all their care and guidance; to the wonderful professionals of the home dialysis unit; to Twin Oaks and the rehab for the ongoing occupational therapy support; to Musquodoboit Homecare nurses who gave such loving care.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative.

Joanna’s wishes are to be at home at Lays Lake with a gathering of family and friends at a later date.

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William "Bill" J. Wood Sr.

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of William “Bill” J. Wood Sr. on Saturday May 3, 2025 at age 80 in his home surrounded by his loved ones. Bill was born to Irene (Wood) MacIntosh in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia. As a young boy, he was cared for and loved by his maternal grandmother, Mary (Cantwell) Wood.

At 17 years of age, Bill joined the Gagetown Armed Forces in the Black Watch. After serving for a few years, he was medically discharged and moved to Kitchener, Ontario for employment. It was there he met his loving wife, Paula Wagner. They went on to marry and have 6 children.

In 1982, the family made their move to Belmont, Nova Scotia where Bill joined the local Debert Legion Branch #106. He went on to serve as president multiple terms as well as various officer positions and received a Lifetime Membership Award for Outstanding Service on January 28th, 2025. Throughout his time at the legion, he was often called upon to serve in the Color Party based out of Debert at various ceremonies and parades around the County, specifically at the Remembrance Day Parade in Debert each year. He was never one to decline the call for pomp and circumstance.

As his children grew, he volunteered for a variety of their activities by encouraging participation and commitment. You could always find Bill either helping at the ball field or working at Vintage Mouldings where he was employed for over 25 years until he retired at the age of 76.

Bill enjoyed puttering – whether it be in his home, his property or the occasional golf course. He was a man of his word and annually; after tilling his own garden, always made his way up the road to tend to a neighbor’s garden as well. Ask once…and you shall receive. 

Bill was a sportsman from his younger years into adulthood. He was an avid dart player – a damn good one too! He loved to read and had a healthy appetite for anything historical. He easily got lost in a good movie or a tv show. Bill thoroughly enjoyed nighttime snacking (although his figure never revealed his secret). Sitting outside on a hot summer day enjoying the heat, listening to the birds and enjoying the fruits of his and Paula’s labor of a beautifully cultivated property was about as good as it could get. It was all about the simple things.

Adding to his many acts of service, we would be remiss if we did not mention the work of heart he and Paula performed for the last 20 plus years. Initially, he and a work colleague fabricated hundreds of metal crosses and together, Bill and Paula painted and placed them annually alongside a Canadian flag on all veterans’ grave sites in cemeteries around the West Colchester Area. This was no small role; they meticulously cared for, repainted and replaced crosses every single year. Excellent record keeping by tracking obituaries throughout the years had them adding to their ever-growing list of caretaking.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Paula (Wagner) Wood; and children, Angela Wood, Windsor; Bill Wood Jr (Michelle), Truro; Alana (Jim) Rushton, East Mountain; Karen (Brett) Phinney, Economy; John-Paul (Sarah) Wood, Truro; and Leanne (Kristen) Fisher, Green Oaks. He leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Matthew, Lucas, Katelyn Rushton, Benjamin Wood, India Fisher, Jaxsen Wood and great-granddaughter, Layna Doucette-Rushton.

Bill will also be remembered by his extended family, his loving sister, Barbara (Shaun) O'Neill, Ben Eoin; and their sons, Shaun E., George and Ian O’Neill; and close cousin, Percy (Hubba) Brewer and his wife, Lavinia.

He was predeceased by his mother, Irene MacIntosh; son-in-law, Mark Morison; and grandson, Joseph Wood.

Our own ‘Doctor Dolittle’ treasured all living creatures, but his beloved pets held a cherished spot in his heart. His current trio of kitties along with his little terrier, Bob brought him great comfort these last few months. We are peacefully assured he is now reunited with his soul pup, Rocky.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Arimathea Funeral Cooperative. Cremation has taken place. A Legion Tribute Service will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the Nova Scotia Golden Retriever Rescue (NSGRR) via e-transfer to nsgrr@eastlink.ca. This amazing rescue placed into his care a loyal and loving fur companion, Charlie at a time when healing was paramount for his animal loving heart.

We extend deep gratitude to a dedicated health care team that came together quickly to assist Bill with his strong desire to remain in his home during his brief illness. Special recognition and appreciation to Dr. Alexander Ednie, Continuing Care NS coordinator, Jennifer McGill, the many compassionate VON Home Care ladies, VON Nursing and his Palliative Care Team angels, Dr. Cortney Smith and Mary Pettipas, RN (our absolute lifelines).

Bill will be deeply missed by all that knew him and his memory will live on in our hearts forever.

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Helen Zoe Barbour

It is with a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Helen Zoe Barbour who departed this life peacefully in Truro, Nova Scotia on April 29th, 2025. Zoe was predeceased by her beloved husband, John David Barbour, with whom she shared many cherished years and a deep, enduring bond.

She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend—whose love, kindness, and strength left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

Zoe dedicated her life to her family, raising her four children—Mandie Barbour (Mike), Michael Barbour (Elaine), John Paul Barbour and the late Brian Barbour —with care, resilience, and unconditional love. Her legacy lives on through them and through her adored granddaughters, Chelsea Barbour and Alexa Barbour, who brought her immense pride and joy.

Zoe is also survived by her loving sister, Jackie Burnett, with whom she shared a deep bond and lifelong friendship. She leaves behind a large extended family, including many beloved cousins and relatives, who will carry forward her memory and spirit.

Helen Zoe Barbour’s life was a blessing, and her memory a treasure. She is loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. She will be remembered for her generosity, her quiet strength, her warmth, and the deep love she had for her family.

A Celebration of Life will be held in July in Nova Scotia to honour Zoe’s memory and the joy she brought to all who knew her. Details will be shared amongst family and friends at a later date. 

In remembering Zoe’s life, we also celebrate the profound impact she had on those around her—a legacy of compassion, family, and enduring love. Donations in Zoe’s memory can be made to the Terry Fox Foundation. 

May she rest in peace.

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8741 Hwy 224, PO Box 45, Upper Musquodoboit, NS B0N 2M0