Auburn, NS January 28, 1947 - January 26, 2024 It is with great sadness that the family of Roger Tufts, 76 of Auburn, Kings Co., announce his passing on Friday, January 26, 2024, in Valley Regional Hospital, Kentville. Born January 28, 1947, he was a son of the late James “Churchill” and Elsie (Cross) Tufts. Roger is survived by his brothers, Randolph Tufts, Auburn, Lincoln (Kim) Tufts, Lawrencetown; sisters, Rrene Lewis and Rose Keddy, Bridgewater; nieces, nephews and many friends who will miss him. Roger was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Ronald and Russell Tufts; sister, Ruby Shea. Roger worked for many years as a dairy herdsman and crop production assistant. In his spare time, he did a little fishing and loved to tinker with old T. V’s, radios, bicycles, and anything he could take apart and try and put back together. Cremation has taken place. A graveside service will be held at a later date in Fairview Cemetery, Lawrencetown, Annapolis Co. Donations in memory may be made to Canadian Diabetes Association or charity of choice.

Springhill, NS June 9, 1952 - January 26, 2024 It is with profound sadness that the family of Mary Louise Howe (nee Nelson) of Calgary, AB, announces her passing on Friday, January 26, 2024, at the age of 71. Born on June 9, 1952, in Springhill, NS, she was the daughter of the late Harold and Murial (nee Boran) Nelson. Mary Louise spent her childhood in Springhill, NS, graduating from Springhill High School in 1970. In the fall of that year, she began attending Mount Allison University in Sackville, NB, where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1973. She continued her studies at St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, NS, receiving her Bachelor of Education degree in 1974. She started her teaching career in the fall of that year with the Springhill School Board. On July 26, 1975, Mary Louise married Douglas Howe and moved from Springhill, NS, to Grand Bank, NL. In 1976, Mary Louise and Doug moved to Calgary, AB, where she continued her teaching career with the Calgary Board of Education until her retirement in 2007. Mary Louise was known for her dedicated friendships. Her friends from childhood remained close to her throughout her life and those friendships were deeply cherished. She brought warmth and humour to countless friends and family near and far. She was a devoted wife and mother. When summer vacation came around, Mary Louise would take the children to visit her parents at their cottage near Pugwash, NS. Time at the beach was a great joy to Mary Louise. It was where she enjoyed time with both family and friends. Mary Louise will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Doug, daughter, Kimberly Howe (Jeremy Resch) and their two children, Evelyn and Amelia, of Calgary, AB; son, David (Paige) Howe of Calgary, AB; brother, Barry (Dorothy) Nelson of Thunder Bay, ON, and their daughter, Karen (Keith) Hamilton of Guelph, ON; sister-in-law Sandra (Alan) Colwell of Saint John, NB, and their children, Shawnee (Peter) Robinson of Berryton, NB, and Timothy Colwell of Saint John, NB. Mary Louise was predeceased by her loving parents, Harold and Muriel (Boran) Nelson of Springhill, NS; and father and mother-in-law, Reginald and Edna (nee Hart) Howe of Sussex, NB. The family would like to give special thanks to Dr. Mark Sosnowski for his care over the last four years. A Celebration of Mary’s Life will be held at a later date. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the charity of the donor’s choice. In living memory of Mary Louise Howe, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area. Arrangements are under the care of McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Eastside, 5388 Memorial Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2A 3V9, Telephone: 403-248-8585.

Dunmore, NS January 26, 2024 It is with heavy hearts we announce the unexpected passing of Darlene Joyce McGrath-Durant, age 52, of Dunmore, Antigonish County which occurred on Friday January 26th, 2024. She was the wife of Martin Durant who was by her side for all 15 years of their marriage. Born and raised in Antigonish, she was the daughter of Ronald and Willena (Baker) McGrath of North Grant. Despite holding various jobs in her life, none of them resonated with her as profoundly as her volunteer work at the food bank, where she felt comfortable and valued. Darlene loved her routine which always included her beloved daily walks at the landing – and of course, Tuesdays and Saturdays were reserved for visiting her mom and dad. She loved to read and knit with many unfinished dish cloths decorating her home. She was the one who made sure there were updated family pictures from the annual PEI trips and Christmas. Darlene loved to bake and never failed to bring expertly iced, low sugar cake or cupcakes to every family gathering. Besides her parents Ronald and Willena (Baker) McGrath who loved her and could always count on her, she is survived by her husband and best friend Martin who loved and appreciated her, sister Kelly (Tim) Delorey of Tracadie whom she loved and could always talk to (even if it was to agree to disagree), and her special nieces Skyler and Savana Delorey, whom she adored beyond what they could ever imagine. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins from Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick. She is predeceased by maternal grandparents Percy and Mary Catherine (Murray) Baker; paternal grandparents Patrick and Anna" Mum Mum" (Hackett) McGrath; and uncles William McGrath and David Smith. Over the last several months Darlene slowly lost her ability to find joy in any of the things she loved about life and herself. We will always remember and love Darlene for being kind, humble, funny, and so soft hearted. Cremation has taken place, there will be no public visitation. Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, February 3rd, 2024, at 11:00am at Ste. Croix Church in Pomquet with Reverend Charlie Cameron presiding. Burial in the parish cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Antigonish Food Bank or the Antigonish SPCA. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of C.L. Curry Funeral Services, 135 College Street Antigonish.

Amherst, NS January 28, 2024 It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Linda Maude Strathearn, age 88, of Amherst, NS.  Surrounded by her loving family, Linda passed away on Sunday, January 28, 2024 at the East Cumberland Lodge, Pugwash, NS. Born in Amherst, NS, she was a daughter of the late Osbourne and Theresa (Baird) Brooks. Linda was a very community minded person.  She was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church in Amherst and belonged to many groups in and out of the church, including Mother's Club, Lady Tweedsmuir Club, the 50 plus club and the Bridge Club.  She worked for many years at the Amherst Co-Op.  She was her happiest surrounded by her family, her children and grandchildren, all who loved her brown bread.  She loved spending time at her cottage at Jacksons Point with family and friends. She will be dearly missed by sons, Mark (Vera) Strathearn, Murray Corner, NB, Larry (Charlotte) Strathearn, Springhill, NS and Kevin (Lisa) Strathearn, Tidnish, NS; grandchildren Tina (Ron), Natasha (Adam), Ritchie (Robin), Angela (Chad), Matthew (Laura), Lyndsie and Jessica (Chelsea); great grandchildren, Tyler, Zack, Conrad, Megan, Emily, Parker, Brynn, Ava, and Jack;  and sister, Betty Lou (Mel) Terris, Riverview, NB; sisters in law Jean Brooks, Charlottetown, PE and Audrey Brooks, Vancouver, BC; brother in law John (Eva) Strathearn, Sackville; as well as many nieces, nephews, great and great great nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband David; granddaughter Jessie; brothers, Reid, Edward "Ted", Phillip, Harry and Bradford Brooks; sisters, Juanita "Nita" Oakes, Patsy Brooks and Eleanor Brooks. Arrangements are in care of Jones Family Funeral Centre, 70 Church St., Amherst, NS (902-667-8777) from where an Afternoon of Remembrance will be held on Friday, Febraury 2, 2024 from 2 to 4 pm.  All are welcome to attend and share memories with the family. For those who wish to do so, donations may be made to the CNIB or the First Baptist Church. Linda's family wish to extend heartfelt thanks to the Cumberland VON and the staff of the East Cumberland Lodge for their care.

Tatamagouche, NS January 3, 1951 - January 24, 2024 Collins, Walter E. - 73, Stanley Road, Cumberland County, passed away Wednesday, January 24, 2024. Born in Springhill, he was a son of the late Sterling and Elsie (Mattinson) Collins. Walter worked for many years in the lumbering industry and retired working as a lumber grader with Tiger Timber. More recently he enjoyed working with G.E. Collins & Sons Ltd. blueberry farming. Walter loved sports, especially watching his granddaughters play basketball for PDHS Panthers. He also was a big hockey fan and avid supporter of the Amherst Ramblers. Walter is survived by his daughter, Tanya Brown (Trevor McKay); granddaughters, Alison (Brent Fisher); Madison (Luke Little); Kacey Brown; great-grandson, Nixon; sister, Phyllis Dickie Hawes; brothers, Ralph (Nancy) and Ross; mother-in-law Evelyn Maddison; brothers-in-law, Joe (Eva) and Stephen (Gail); many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by wife, the former Ruth Maddison; father-in-law, Murray Maddison; sister-in-law, Sandra Collins; brothers-in-law, Vaughn Dickie; Joe Hawes. A special thank you to niece, Raelynn Maddison and nephews, Daniel Maddison and Jason Dickie. Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. Tuesday, January 30 in MacDiarmid's Funeral Home & Crematorium. An interment in Athol Cemetery will be held at a later date.

Brighton, NS December 21, 1939 - January 24, 2024 Jordan, Lovett Stanley “Bug” - 84, of Brighton, Digby Co., passed away with loving family at his side on Wednesday January 24, 2024, in the Yarmouth Regional Hospital. Born in Digby, he was a son of the late Lovett Sr. and Hilda (Amon) Jordan. Bug grew up in Brighton and began working at an early age. He did various jobs around Digby, until deciding to go to Alberta to work at the Chateau, Lake Louise, working on the golf course and other various jobs at the hotel. Later he and Betty were married, and they settled in Brighton, at the family homestead. He worked at the Sunset Beverage room as bartender for several years. He then decided to get into the fishing industry and worked on various fish draggers and scallop draggers with his brother Arnie. He lastly worked at the Digby General Hospital in the House keeping Department, keeping things very meticulous, until he retired. He enjoyed playing Darts all over the province and was very competitive and winning various dart trophies. He loved the outdoors and deer hunting. He enjoyed his time at the hunting camp, often preparing in September for the November hunt. Bug’s passion was woodworking, he would spend hours working on new projects. His woodworking skills can still be seen throughout all of his family’s homes and far beyond as he built numerous urns for families in need. He is survived by his wife Betty of 62 years; son Richard “Ricky”, Brighton; daughter Debbie (Chris) Tidd, Little River; one brother, Ronald, Plympton; son-in-law, Mark Wagner, Centreville, Kings Co.; three grandchildren, Casie (Matt) Melanson; Kayla (Nick) Wagner and Tristan Wagner; three great-grandchildren and one more on the way; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by son Jimmy; daughter, Shelley Wagner; sisters, Phyllis Quartermaine, and Edie Prime; brother, Arnie. As per Bug’s request, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation. A service of celebration will be held Thursday, February 1, 2024, at 2pm in the Brighton & Barton Fire Hall, 8547 Highway #1, Brighton with Pastor Mark Cress officiating. Reception will follow the service at the firehall. The burial will take place in the Holy Cross Cemetery, Plympton. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Brighton and Barton Fire Dept. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main Street, Middleton toll free 1-855-825-3448.

Kentville, NS February 14, 1934 - January 25, 2024 Barkhouse, Joseph Ezram – Age 89 of Kentville, Kings Co., formerly of Mt. Hanley, Annapolis Co., passed away peacefully Thursday, January 25, 2024, in Shannex Orchard Court, Kentville. Born in Upper Cornwall, Lunenburg Co., he was a son of the late Harry and Cyrilla (Robar) Barkhouse. Joseph worked for Canadian Canners, Mersey Paper Company, Department of Highways, he owned and operated a gas station and did various farm work. Joseph is survived by his brother, Winston of Middleton; nieces and nephews, Diana Rice (Kevin), Karen Strong (Royal), Neil Barkhouse (Shelly), Michael Barkhouse, Sherry Thompson (Shane) and Tonya Barkhouse. Besides his parents, Joseph was predeceased by his wife, Marjorie; daughter, Brenda; brothers, Morley and Milton; sisters, Iris and Frances (In Infancy). The family would like to thank the homecare team who cared for Joseph while he was still able to be at home and the staff of Shannex Orchard Court, Kentville for their care shown to Joseph. Visitation will be held 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, January 31, 2024, in Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main St., toll free: 1-855-825-3448 where a funeral service will take place 11 a.m. Thursday, February 1, 2024, with Rev. Leon Langille officiating. Interment will follow in Hillside Cemetery, Port George. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory may be made to Alzheimer’s Society, Canadian Cancer Society or charity of choice.

Middleton, NS January 22, 2024 It is with profound sadness that the family of Janet Lorraine Crowe announces her passing on January 22, 2024, in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, at the age of 81. Janet is survived by her husband, Lionel; and their daughter, Lesley (Justin).  She will be deeply missed by her sister, Rhoda “Betty” Goodwin; brothers, Edwin (Fiona) Lilly and George (Sandra) Lilly; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and their families.  She was predeceased by her parents, Ernest and Zaida (Sabean) Lilly; and her brother-in-law, Rod Goodwin. Janet was raised in Paradise, later moving to Lake Echo in 1975.  She spent many joyful years there, feeding the birds and tending to her garden. Janet was a woman of many talents; there were few things she couldn't do or create.  She kept herself busy with hobbies like Tole Painting, cross stitching, and crocheting, and loved sharing these skills with others through teaching.  Additionally, Janet was a passionate genealogist and spent countless hours researching her family history, eagerly sharing her discoveries with all of us. Of all of Janet’s interests, dancing provided her with some of her happiest times, as she and Lionel became involved in numerous round and square dancing clubs in the Halifax area, beginning in 1968.  Working tirelessly in the background and avoiding the spotlight she was involved in many events and organizations in the Maritime region, and enjoyed teaching new dancers and fostering their love for dance. Everyone who knew Janet will remember her quick laugh, her kindness toward others, and the immense love she had for her family and friends. She will be greatly missed, but will continue to live in our hearts and memories forever. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Canadian Wildlife Federation, Soul's Harbour Rescue Mission, or another charity of choice. As per Janet's wishes, a graveside service will be held at the Paradise Cemetery on May 25, 2024, at 2:00pm.

Bras d'Or, NS April 2, 1972 ~ January 18, 2024 It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of our precious son. John Joseph, who passed away suddenly on Thursday, January 18, 2024 in Edmonton, Alberta. John was the son of John and Gail (MacDonald) Parsons. John is survived and will be sadly missed by his 3 children. Alexander (Courtney), Lanasia (Cale), Sage and his granddaughter Graham. His sister Melissa, brother Craig (Lisa), niece and nephews Riley, Dryden, Aunaka, Ethan and Abby. Aunts, Uncles and numerous cousins. John was predeceased by his maternal and paternal grandparents. William and Mary (Spencer) MacDonald, Patrick Spencer, Jack and Madge Parsons and brother Ryan Jason. J ohn loved to laugh and wore his heart on his sleeve. He loved his family fiercely, and they loved him just as much. When his father needed a kidney transplant he learned that he was a match and stepped up, donated one of his kidneys to his dad. John had a passion for music, especially listened to The Tragically Hip who he went to see in concert many times. John was lucky enough to have lifetime friends, Rob Parsons, Michael Leblanc, Dwyane Campbell, Dwyane Jessome, Shaun McGean. They could be often found together engaging in shenanigans with John usually having a cheeky grin on his face. His warm smile was genuine and made people comfortable in this presence. Even meeting him, one time is enough to see his kindness and his joyful spirit. We will deeply miss our loving son who enriched and made our lives better. His spirit will always be with us. After his death, again John was an organ donor so that others would live. Visitation for John will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday February 3rd in the W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney. A funeral service will follow at 3 p.m. in the funeral home with Rev. Doug MacDonald officiating. Burial will take place at St. Joseph Cemetery, Bras d’Or at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Antigonish, NS January 25, 2024 McKenna, Emery Vincent, age 72, Antigonish, passed away at the Queen Elizabeth II Infirmary, Halifax on January 25, 2024. Emery was a good man, who lived a full life in the Antigonish community. In his younger years, following high school, Emery attended trade school in Port Hawkesbury. From there he was hired and served for over 20 years as assistant manager at the Cottage Store in Antigonish. In this role he was well known among the St FX and local community for his friendly demeanor and his knowledge of sports. Emery was also employed in the forestry industry and rounded out his working years as a custodian at St.FX University. As a Toronto Maple Leafs fan Emery had few equals. He was known in the community, and consulted often, when disputes about his beloved Maple Leafs were raised. In his younger years Emery traveled some in Western Canada and the Northeast United States. However, it was in Antigonish where he settled and enjoyed his life. In retirement Emery was known and respected as a kind person, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He is survived by his partner, Nadine McGrath and her daughters, Beth (Jason) Ashe, New Glasgow; Kendra McGrath, Antigonish; sister: Betty Glencross, Antigonish; special step grandson, Marcus; step grand daughter, Mya; nieces and nephews: John, Rick (Karen), Karen (Glenn), Bob, Troy (Angela), Kathy (Wayne), Wanda, Elton (Valerie). He was predeceased by his parents, Emery and Margret McKenna; sister, Florence MacLean; brother, Sandy; niece, Lynn; nephews Robert and Blair; nephew in law, Barry. Cremation has taken place.  Visitation will be at C.L. Curry Funeral Home, 135 College Street, Antigonish on Thursday, February 1, 2024, from 2 to 4PM and 7 to 9PM. Funeral will be held on Friday, February 2 at St. Ninian’s Cathedral at 11:00AM with Father Danny MacLennan presiding. Donations in Emery’s memory may be made to a charity of choice.

Sambro, NS August 18, 1933 - January 27, 2024 With saddened hearts, the family of Dolly Mayola Gray, 90, of Sambro, announce her passing on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at the QEII. She was the daughter of Albert and Anne Gilkie of Sambro. She is survived by her loving husband of 70 years, Marshall, son Tony (Darlene), daughters Tammy (Tommy), Cheryl (Billy), and Sharon (Phil), daughter-in-law Sarah, 7 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren, siblings Kenny and Sylvia, and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by son Rodney and Lorne, daughter Wendy in infancy, granddaughter Chasity, great-granddaughter Kelcie, brothers Cecil, Stewart, Breton, and Donnie, sisters Leta and Sheila, and two brothers in infancy. Mom was a homemaker who enjoyed spending time with her family, camping trips, picnics on Sis’s Beach, trips to Inner Sambro Island, Sunday drives, TV bingo, and her Saturday night card games with her favorite drink (Lambs). Cremation has taken place, and a private family gathering will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. James United Church, Sambro. Rest in peace, Ma. XOXO

Halifax, NS January 21, 1936 - January 27, 2024 David Aubrey Gallant passed away on January 27, 2024 in Halifax. Born on November 21, 1936, in North Woodside. Son of the late John and Mary (Ellis) Gallant. Predeceased by his wife of 37 years, Celesta Elizabeth (Levy), brothers Blair, Kevin, Gervais (Friday), Ellis, Blaine and sister, Zella. Survived by son, David Anthony (Tony), Halifax, and daughter, Lynn Marie Gallant-Occhiogrosso and son-in-law Lenny Occhinogrosso, Newmarket, Ontario, grandson Nicholas Mackay, Dartmouth, and family Shirley Henderson and Joe Gallant (Heather Coccimello), and a number of nieces and nephews. He was a graduate of Saint Peter’s High School (1955) and Dartmouth High School (1956). In his youth he worked for Spicer’s Store in North Woodside. During the summer of 1956 he was employed with Canadian Tire on Commercial St., Dartmouth. In October 1956 he began his government career with the Dept. Of Defence and spent two years at Shearwater. David moved on to Canada Post for 33 years where he took early retirement at the age of 54 in 1991. Cremation has taken place. As per David’s wishes, there will be no visitation or memorial service.