HISTORIC WABANA FACEBOOK GROUP BLOG
January to June 2026
by Gail Hussey-Weir
Created January 1, 2026; Updated June 6, 2026
January to June 2026
by Gail Hussey-Weir
Created January 1, 2026; Updated June 6, 2026
Welcome to this blog that I created on Nov. 8, 2021 as a way for Bell Islanders near and far who are not members of my Facebook Group "Historic Wabana Nfld 2.0" to continue to see some of the things posted there after the Group went from a "Public" group to "Private."
In this Blog, you will see some of the things that you would see on my FB group if you were a member. You won't be able to comment here in real time like you would on the FB group, but if you want to share your thoughts on anything you see, or even send in your own photos to be included here, you can do so by emailing me (Gail) at: [email protected].
Just as you would see on the FB Group, the latest posts are shown first. Unlike the FB Group, you will see buttons next to some posts. You can click on the button provided to read more about the subject at hand. When you are finished, click the back arrow in the top left corner of the page to return to this Blog.
Click the Blog in the top menu to visit previous Blog pages.
In this Blog, you will see some of the things that you would see on my FB group if you were a member. You won't be able to comment here in real time like you would on the FB group, but if you want to share your thoughts on anything you see, or even send in your own photos to be included here, you can do so by emailing me (Gail) at: [email protected].
Just as you would see on the FB Group, the latest posts are shown first. Unlike the FB Group, you will see buttons next to some posts. You can click on the button provided to read more about the subject at hand. When you are finished, click the back arrow in the top left corner of the page to return to this Blog.
Click the Blog in the top menu to visit previous Blog pages.
|
Obituary for Shirley (nee Whalen) Miller, June 4, 2026, age 75.
|
|
October 29, 1950 - June 4, 2026:
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Shirley Miller, who passed away unexpectedly at St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital on June 4, 2026, at the age of 75.
Leaving to mourn with fond and loving memories are her husband, Frazer, children, Cheryl Whitten (Kerry) and Heather (Andrew), as well as two grandchildren Nicholas and Kera. Shirley is remembered by her brother Bill Whalen (Cindy), sister-in-law Naomi Janes (Bill), brother-in-law Harold Miller (Joyce) and her special pet Colby plus a large circle of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. She will be dearly missed by special friends Gail Baker and Pat Poole who supported the family especially through the last two months.
Shirley was predeceased by her parents Levi and Myrtle Whalen; sisters-in-law Jean Hawco (Fergus), Joyce Coffin, Sandra Heath (John); brother-in-law Kenneth Miller and niece Michelle Hawco.
Shirley was born to Levi and Myrtle Whalen on October 29, 1950 on Bell Island, NL. She will be missed by many - Shirleywill be remembered fondly as the owner and operator of Activ-Time Preschool and Daycare on Fowler’s Road, dedicating over 40 years to thousands of children throughout that time. Upon retiring from childcare, Shirley became an active volunteer and program coordinator with Special Olympics, Conception Bay South. She spent many nights burning the midnight oil to ensure that all the athletes were taken care of. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff in Emergency, ICU, Floor 7 West and Floor 7 East at St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital for the care she received during her stay there and for the compassion they showed to the family.
Flowers are gratefully accepted or donations can be made in Shirley’s honour to CBS Special Olympics ([email protected]).
Cremation has been completed. Visitation will take place at Hickey’s Funeral Home, 570 Conception Bay Highway, Conception Bay South on Sunday, June 14, 2026 from 2:00pm to 8:00pm and Monday, June 15, 2026 from 12:00pm to 2:30pm followed by a celebration of life service at the Chapel beginning at 3:00pm.
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Shirley Miller, who passed away unexpectedly at St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital on June 4, 2026, at the age of 75.
Leaving to mourn with fond and loving memories are her husband, Frazer, children, Cheryl Whitten (Kerry) and Heather (Andrew), as well as two grandchildren Nicholas and Kera. Shirley is remembered by her brother Bill Whalen (Cindy), sister-in-law Naomi Janes (Bill), brother-in-law Harold Miller (Joyce) and her special pet Colby plus a large circle of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. She will be dearly missed by special friends Gail Baker and Pat Poole who supported the family especially through the last two months.
Shirley was predeceased by her parents Levi and Myrtle Whalen; sisters-in-law Jean Hawco (Fergus), Joyce Coffin, Sandra Heath (John); brother-in-law Kenneth Miller and niece Michelle Hawco.
Shirley was born to Levi and Myrtle Whalen on October 29, 1950 on Bell Island, NL. She will be missed by many - Shirleywill be remembered fondly as the owner and operator of Activ-Time Preschool and Daycare on Fowler’s Road, dedicating over 40 years to thousands of children throughout that time. Upon retiring from childcare, Shirley became an active volunteer and program coordinator with Special Olympics, Conception Bay South. She spent many nights burning the midnight oil to ensure that all the athletes were taken care of. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff in Emergency, ICU, Floor 7 West and Floor 7 East at St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital for the care she received during her stay there and for the compassion they showed to the family.
Flowers are gratefully accepted or donations can be made in Shirley’s honour to CBS Special Olympics ([email protected]).
Cremation has been completed. Visitation will take place at Hickey’s Funeral Home, 570 Conception Bay Highway, Conception Bay South on Sunday, June 14, 2026 from 2:00pm to 8:00pm and Monday, June 15, 2026 from 12:00pm to 2:30pm followed by a celebration of life service at the Chapel beginning at 3:00pm.
|
Obituary for James (Jim) Hearn, May 31, 2026, age 86.
|
|
August 5, 1939 - May 31, 2026:
On Sunday morning, the curtain closed on another chapter in Bell Island's history as Jim Hearn left this world as he lived, with grace and dignity. He was expertly guided by the compassionate staff of the Dr. Walter Templeman Health Care Centre as his daughter, Jaimie, courageously kept vigil at his side.
Jim's career as retired Director of the Wabana Boys' and Girls' Club, spanned over 45 years during which time he gave generously of himself without any expectation of recognition or repayment. Kindness with intention is love in its softest form. During his lengthy tenure, Jim was a guiding light and steady hand for thousands of children in the community. In each of them, he saw goodness and potential.
His motto was that no child gets left behind, and he treated every child as if they were the only child. He has left a legacy of respect, encouragement and a gentle radiance that warmed all who knew him. We will miss him dearly.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, Martin and Anne Hearn, his sister, Rosemary Kent and brothers, Marty and Mack Hearn.
Left with a shattered heart and a lifetime of treasured memories is Jim's beloved Dottie, his wife, partner and soul mate, with whom he would have celebrated 63 years of marriage on July 15th. Jim's memory will be carried with honor by their cherished daughter, Jaimie, who is the crowning jewel in their beautiful life together; steadfast son in law, Brad Coombs and pride and joy, grandson, Will.
Jim is survived by his devoted sisters, Lin Penney, Rosalind Crompton, and Nora Masson.
He will be fondly remembered by the entire Wabana Boys' and Girls' Club alumni along with a large circle of extended family and close friends. Love doesn’t disappear when someone dies; it becomes the force that strengthens you.
Visitation will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Pendergast's Funeral Home from 12:00-9:00.
Jim's celebration of life will begin with his Mass of Resurrection at St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 12:00 followed, immediately, by a reception at St. Michael's Parish Hall. We invite you all to join us as we celebrate a life, well lived.
"If we never meet again this side of Heaven
As we struggle through this world and its strife There's another meeting place somewhere in Heaven
By the side of the river of life."
On Sunday morning, the curtain closed on another chapter in Bell Island's history as Jim Hearn left this world as he lived, with grace and dignity. He was expertly guided by the compassionate staff of the Dr. Walter Templeman Health Care Centre as his daughter, Jaimie, courageously kept vigil at his side.
Jim's career as retired Director of the Wabana Boys' and Girls' Club, spanned over 45 years during which time he gave generously of himself without any expectation of recognition or repayment. Kindness with intention is love in its softest form. During his lengthy tenure, Jim was a guiding light and steady hand for thousands of children in the community. In each of them, he saw goodness and potential.
His motto was that no child gets left behind, and he treated every child as if they were the only child. He has left a legacy of respect, encouragement and a gentle radiance that warmed all who knew him. We will miss him dearly.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, Martin and Anne Hearn, his sister, Rosemary Kent and brothers, Marty and Mack Hearn.
Left with a shattered heart and a lifetime of treasured memories is Jim's beloved Dottie, his wife, partner and soul mate, with whom he would have celebrated 63 years of marriage on July 15th. Jim's memory will be carried with honor by their cherished daughter, Jaimie, who is the crowning jewel in their beautiful life together; steadfast son in law, Brad Coombs and pride and joy, grandson, Will.
Jim is survived by his devoted sisters, Lin Penney, Rosalind Crompton, and Nora Masson.
He will be fondly remembered by the entire Wabana Boys' and Girls' Club alumni along with a large circle of extended family and close friends. Love doesn’t disappear when someone dies; it becomes the force that strengthens you.
Visitation will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Pendergast's Funeral Home from 12:00-9:00.
Jim's celebration of life will begin with his Mass of Resurrection at St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 12:00 followed, immediately, by a reception at St. Michael's Parish Hall. We invite you all to join us as we celebrate a life, well lived.
"If we never meet again this side of Heaven
As we struggle through this world and its strife There's another meeting place somewhere in Heaven
By the side of the river of life."
Jim Hearn joined the Wabana Boys' Club when it first opened in June 1955, when he was 15 or 16 years old. Three and a half years later, January 15, 1959, he was appointed Boys' Club Assistant to the Executive Director, Ernie Cotton. He went on to become Executive Director of the Club and dedicated his working life to it. Jim passed away on May 31, 2026. He is fondly remembered by Bell Islanders near and far. Below are some pictures of him from the Submarine Miner of February and March 1959.
|
|
|
Obituary for Michael Conway, May 30, 2026, age 88.
|
|
December 6, 1937 - May 30, 2026:
With profound love and deep sadness, the family of Michael Joseph Conway announces his peaceful passing on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at his home on Bell Island, exactly the way he wished, with his four angels at his side.
Born on December 6, 1937, Michael was the son of Margaret Costello and William Conway. He is predeceased by his beloved wife Louise Tucker; his parents; his brothers Jim and Jerry and his sister Marie.
Left to mourn him and carry forward his legacy of kindness and strength are his daughters Elizabeth (Eric), Tara (Jodee), Deidre (Kendall), and Tami; his best friend Barb Tucker; his treasured grandchildren Haley, Tanar, Faith, Emma, Aaron, Branden, and Cameron.
Though he adored each of his grandchildren deeply, he held a special place in his heart for Haley Lawrence, whose bond with him was unmistakable and immeasurable.
Michael also leaves behind a wide circle of extended family, friends, neighbours, and countless others whose lives he touched. Truly, anyone who met him felt the warmth of his kindness and carried a piece of him with them.
Michael was most proud of his reputation as the best baker on the island and his role as a member of the Submarine Miners. He raised his family making a living as an entrepreneur, with the best bread buns around and spent his free time with his friends singing songs to make other people happy.
Michael lived his life with extraordinary faith. He often told those he met that God had sent him a mountain but also sent him four angels to help him climb it. Even when faced with cancer, he refused to acknowledge its power. Instead, he chose to live every moment fully, joyfully, and on his own terms. His strength was quiet but unwavering; his gratitude for every moment with his family was constant and sincere.
To know Michael was to know selflessness. He gave without hesitation, loved without condition, and met every person with warmth and humility. His life was defined not by what he faced, but by how he faced it; with courage, humour, and an unshakeable belief in the goodness around him.
He leaves behind a family who will forever be grateful for his love, his lessons, and the example he set. His presence will be missed beyond measure, but his spirit will continue to guide those who loved him.
May he rest in peace, reunited with those who went before him, and forever remembered by those whose lives he touched.
Cremation has taken place. No visitation by request. A funeral service will take place on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 2 p.m. from St. Michael’s RC Church, Bell Island. Inurnment to follow at St. Michael’s RC Cemetery, Bell Island.
Following the burial, a reception will be held at St. Michael’s Hall.
Donations can be directed to the Dr. Walter Templeton Hospital or St. Michael’s Parish on Bell Island by contacting the church to arrange a donation. Telephone: (709) 488-2525
Email: [email protected]
With profound love and deep sadness, the family of Michael Joseph Conway announces his peaceful passing on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at his home on Bell Island, exactly the way he wished, with his four angels at his side.
Born on December 6, 1937, Michael was the son of Margaret Costello and William Conway. He is predeceased by his beloved wife Louise Tucker; his parents; his brothers Jim and Jerry and his sister Marie.
Left to mourn him and carry forward his legacy of kindness and strength are his daughters Elizabeth (Eric), Tara (Jodee), Deidre (Kendall), and Tami; his best friend Barb Tucker; his treasured grandchildren Haley, Tanar, Faith, Emma, Aaron, Branden, and Cameron.
Though he adored each of his grandchildren deeply, he held a special place in his heart for Haley Lawrence, whose bond with him was unmistakable and immeasurable.
Michael also leaves behind a wide circle of extended family, friends, neighbours, and countless others whose lives he touched. Truly, anyone who met him felt the warmth of his kindness and carried a piece of him with them.
Michael was most proud of his reputation as the best baker on the island and his role as a member of the Submarine Miners. He raised his family making a living as an entrepreneur, with the best bread buns around and spent his free time with his friends singing songs to make other people happy.
Michael lived his life with extraordinary faith. He often told those he met that God had sent him a mountain but also sent him four angels to help him climb it. Even when faced with cancer, he refused to acknowledge its power. Instead, he chose to live every moment fully, joyfully, and on his own terms. His strength was quiet but unwavering; his gratitude for every moment with his family was constant and sincere.
To know Michael was to know selflessness. He gave without hesitation, loved without condition, and met every person with warmth and humility. His life was defined not by what he faced, but by how he faced it; with courage, humour, and an unshakeable belief in the goodness around him.
He leaves behind a family who will forever be grateful for his love, his lessons, and the example he set. His presence will be missed beyond measure, but his spirit will continue to guide those who loved him.
May he rest in peace, reunited with those who went before him, and forever remembered by those whose lives he touched.
Cremation has taken place. No visitation by request. A funeral service will take place on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 2 p.m. from St. Michael’s RC Church, Bell Island. Inurnment to follow at St. Michael’s RC Cemetery, Bell Island.
Following the burial, a reception will be held at St. Michael’s Hall.
Donations can be directed to the Dr. Walter Templeton Hospital or St. Michael’s Parish on Bell Island by contacting the church to arrange a donation. Telephone: (709) 488-2525
Email: [email protected]
|
Obituary for Kenneth Cobb, May 27, 2026, age 73.
|
|
July 17, 1952 - May 27, 2026:
With the heaviest of hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Husband, Step-Father, Poppy, Brother, and uncle, Kenneth Matthew Cobb, who passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026, in Cambridge, Ontario, at the age of 73.
Born on July 17, 1952, in Bell Island, Newfoundland. He was a devoted family man whose greatest joy came from the people he loved. His kindness, wisdom, and generous heart left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Ken leaves behind his loving partner and best friend, Lynda Brokenshire, with whom he shared a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering companionship. He will be deeply missed by his step-sons, Greg (Alex) Brokenshire and Aaron (Angela) Brokenshire, and by his step-daughter, Leah (Danny) Medeiros, all of whom loved him dearly.
Feeling the profound loss of their beloved Poppy are Freeman, Bryant, Aiden, Charlotte, Ava, Warren and Gavin, who brought endless pride and happiness to his life.
Ken is now reunited with his cherished parents, John “Jack” and Doris (née Dwyer) Cobb, and his brothers Michael and James, who predeceased him.
He is lovingly remembered and survived by his brothers and sisters: John, George (Patricia), Lillian Meyer, Melvin (Susan), Doris, William (Christine), Elizabeth Beke, Athelie (Larry) Markle, Robert, and Ruth. Ken will also be fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives he touched in countless ways.
Ken’s legacy will live on in the love he gave so freely, the memories he created with family, and the quiet strength and compassion he showed throughout his life. Though he will be deeply missed, he will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Cremation has already taken place and a Celebration Of Life will be planned for a future date.
With the heaviest of hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Husband, Step-Father, Poppy, Brother, and uncle, Kenneth Matthew Cobb, who passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026, in Cambridge, Ontario, at the age of 73.
Born on July 17, 1952, in Bell Island, Newfoundland. He was a devoted family man whose greatest joy came from the people he loved. His kindness, wisdom, and generous heart left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Ken leaves behind his loving partner and best friend, Lynda Brokenshire, with whom he shared a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering companionship. He will be deeply missed by his step-sons, Greg (Alex) Brokenshire and Aaron (Angela) Brokenshire, and by his step-daughter, Leah (Danny) Medeiros, all of whom loved him dearly.
Feeling the profound loss of their beloved Poppy are Freeman, Bryant, Aiden, Charlotte, Ava, Warren and Gavin, who brought endless pride and happiness to his life.
Ken is now reunited with his cherished parents, John “Jack” and Doris (née Dwyer) Cobb, and his brothers Michael and James, who predeceased him.
He is lovingly remembered and survived by his brothers and sisters: John, George (Patricia), Lillian Meyer, Melvin (Susan), Doris, William (Christine), Elizabeth Beke, Athelie (Larry) Markle, Robert, and Ruth. Ken will also be fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives he touched in countless ways.
Ken’s legacy will live on in the love he gave so freely, the memories he created with family, and the quiet strength and compassion he showed throughout his life. Though he will be deeply missed, he will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Cremation has already taken place and a Celebration Of Life will be planned for a future date.
|
Obituary for Lorraine (nee Eveleigh) Hammond, May 14, 2026, age 82.
|
|
June 24, 1943 - May 14, 2026:
BARRE- Lorraine Mary Hammond (nee Eveleigh), 82, passed away peacefully at her home in Barre, Massachusetts on Thursday, May 14th, surrounded by her loved ones.
She was born on June 24th, 1943 in Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada to parents Herbert and Mary Eveleigh. She is survived by her brother Malcolm (Irene) and is predeceased by her parents, her sister Marie Kent (William), and her sister Mary “Mollie” Stone. She had a very close and loving relationship with each of her siblings.
In 1962, Lorraine married her husband of 63 years, Edmund Patrick Hammond. Despite the challenges of leaving her beloved family on Bell Island, she moved to Massachusetts in 1966 to raise and provide a better life for her children, Corrina (Arthur), Mary “Mollie”, Pauline (Paul), Lorraine (Charles), and Thomas (Robin). She is survived by Edmund and each of her loving children.
Lorraine was avidly and loyally devoted to her family and those close to her. She worked tirelessly and selflessly to ensure they had everything they could ever need. She was the true matriarch of the family and leaves behind seven grandchildren, Stacey, Jennifer, Josh, Sarah, Emily, Grace, and Elainie, as well as many great grandchildren, each of whom she had a deep and loving connection with. She also loved and left forever memories with her many nieces and nephews.
To know Lorraine was to feel strong and unconditional love. She loved with her whole heart and soul, and made an impact on everyone she met with her wonderful sense of humor and understanding. She went out of her way to make sure her friends and family knew how special they were to her and was happiest in their company.
In her spare time, Lorraine enjoyed traveling and experiencing new things. She had an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation and love for animals, angels, and the natural world, always trailed by the many pets lucky enough to have crossed her path. She loved lilacs, and made sure to adorn the home with the flowers every spring. She loved the ocean and would spend hours listening to the steady sound of the waves, fascinated by the beauty and dignity of lighthouses. She served as such for her family; a strong, unyielding, and guiding light. We will always carry her light with us.
There are no calling hours and the family will be holding private services. Please consider a gift in her memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Arrangements are under the care of Pillsbury Funeral Home 96 S. Barre Rd Barre.
BARRE- Lorraine Mary Hammond (nee Eveleigh), 82, passed away peacefully at her home in Barre, Massachusetts on Thursday, May 14th, surrounded by her loved ones.
She was born on June 24th, 1943 in Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada to parents Herbert and Mary Eveleigh. She is survived by her brother Malcolm (Irene) and is predeceased by her parents, her sister Marie Kent (William), and her sister Mary “Mollie” Stone. She had a very close and loving relationship with each of her siblings.
In 1962, Lorraine married her husband of 63 years, Edmund Patrick Hammond. Despite the challenges of leaving her beloved family on Bell Island, she moved to Massachusetts in 1966 to raise and provide a better life for her children, Corrina (Arthur), Mary “Mollie”, Pauline (Paul), Lorraine (Charles), and Thomas (Robin). She is survived by Edmund and each of her loving children.
Lorraine was avidly and loyally devoted to her family and those close to her. She worked tirelessly and selflessly to ensure they had everything they could ever need. She was the true matriarch of the family and leaves behind seven grandchildren, Stacey, Jennifer, Josh, Sarah, Emily, Grace, and Elainie, as well as many great grandchildren, each of whom she had a deep and loving connection with. She also loved and left forever memories with her many nieces and nephews.
To know Lorraine was to feel strong and unconditional love. She loved with her whole heart and soul, and made an impact on everyone she met with her wonderful sense of humor and understanding. She went out of her way to make sure her friends and family knew how special they were to her and was happiest in their company.
In her spare time, Lorraine enjoyed traveling and experiencing new things. She had an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation and love for animals, angels, and the natural world, always trailed by the many pets lucky enough to have crossed her path. She loved lilacs, and made sure to adorn the home with the flowers every spring. She loved the ocean and would spend hours listening to the steady sound of the waves, fascinated by the beauty and dignity of lighthouses. She served as such for her family; a strong, unyielding, and guiding light. We will always carry her light with us.
There are no calling hours and the family will be holding private services. Please consider a gift in her memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Arrangements are under the care of Pillsbury Funeral Home 96 S. Barre Rd Barre.
|
Obituary for Madonna (nee Williams) Joseph, May 23, 2026, age 81.
|
|
July 4, 1944 - May 23, 2026:
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Madonna Joseph (née Williams) on the evening of Saturday, May 23, 2006, at the Dr. Leonard A. Miller Centre, surrounded by the love of her family.
Madonna was predeceased by her parents, Harold and Madeline Williams; her brothers, James (Mary), John, Harold (Bud), and Cyril Williams (Blanche); and her sisters, Florence Little and Norma Murphy; Mother in Law Hazel Joseph; brother-in-law Peter Joseph.
Madonna leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her husband Hugh Joseph, her devoted partner of 35 years; her only child, Greg Samuelson (Lynnette), alongside Hughie’s children, Steve (Christalisa Orie) Joseph and Lisa Joseph; grandchildren Kyle, Hannah, Kody, Noah, Kayla, Tyler, Jihane, Tahlia, Ayana, and Kenaye; her brother: Charles Williams (Pearl); sisters in law Margie Williams and Pauline Williams; brothers-in-law Michael, Johnny, and Jimmy Joseph; sisters-in-law Charlotte Robinson, Margaret Joseph, Betty Joseph and Cheryl Johnson, as well as large circle of nieces and nephews.
Born in St. John’s and raised on Southside Road, Madonna was a woman of strong work ethic and adventure. She began her career at the Waterford Hospital before working with RCA, and later, Spar Aerospace in Montreal. Upon her retirement from Spar, she and Hughie relocated to Oshawa, where Madonna found deep fulfillment by opening her heart and home as a foster parent. She was equally devoted to Hughie, and where you found one, the other was close by.
Seventeen years ago, Madonna and Hughie returned to Newfoundland to be closer to family, settling into a quiet, peaceful retirement on Bell Island. Madonna took immense pride in cultivating her beautiful garden and meticulously caring for and updating their home. She was a passionate cook, famous for sharing her delicious baked goods with family, friends, and neighbors alike.
Madonna was sharp, astute, and witty—traits that were observed even in her final days. She was known for giving the "evil eye"; deployed masterfully whenever she wanted you to comply with her wishes. Ironically, she often insisted that she was not a "funny" person and simply didn't get jokes, a claim that only added to her unique charm and humor.
The family wishes to express their deepest thanks to the exceptional healthcare team who provided comfort and dignity in her final months: Community Health Nurses Cheryl Boone and Twila Savoury; Dr. Bragg from the Palliative Health Team; the nurses at Palliative Care; and the compassionate "Angels of Hope" caregivers, Safa and Luwam. The kindness we received from all these people has been very appreciated and helped us support Madonna at home as long as possible.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Madonna’s life will be held at a later date.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Madonna Joseph (née Williams) on the evening of Saturday, May 23, 2006, at the Dr. Leonard A. Miller Centre, surrounded by the love of her family.
Madonna was predeceased by her parents, Harold and Madeline Williams; her brothers, James (Mary), John, Harold (Bud), and Cyril Williams (Blanche); and her sisters, Florence Little and Norma Murphy; Mother in Law Hazel Joseph; brother-in-law Peter Joseph.
Madonna leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her husband Hugh Joseph, her devoted partner of 35 years; her only child, Greg Samuelson (Lynnette), alongside Hughie’s children, Steve (Christalisa Orie) Joseph and Lisa Joseph; grandchildren Kyle, Hannah, Kody, Noah, Kayla, Tyler, Jihane, Tahlia, Ayana, and Kenaye; her brother: Charles Williams (Pearl); sisters in law Margie Williams and Pauline Williams; brothers-in-law Michael, Johnny, and Jimmy Joseph; sisters-in-law Charlotte Robinson, Margaret Joseph, Betty Joseph and Cheryl Johnson, as well as large circle of nieces and nephews.
Born in St. John’s and raised on Southside Road, Madonna was a woman of strong work ethic and adventure. She began her career at the Waterford Hospital before working with RCA, and later, Spar Aerospace in Montreal. Upon her retirement from Spar, she and Hughie relocated to Oshawa, where Madonna found deep fulfillment by opening her heart and home as a foster parent. She was equally devoted to Hughie, and where you found one, the other was close by.
Seventeen years ago, Madonna and Hughie returned to Newfoundland to be closer to family, settling into a quiet, peaceful retirement on Bell Island. Madonna took immense pride in cultivating her beautiful garden and meticulously caring for and updating their home. She was a passionate cook, famous for sharing her delicious baked goods with family, friends, and neighbors alike.
Madonna was sharp, astute, and witty—traits that were observed even in her final days. She was known for giving the "evil eye"; deployed masterfully whenever she wanted you to comply with her wishes. Ironically, she often insisted that she was not a "funny" person and simply didn't get jokes, a claim that only added to her unique charm and humor.
The family wishes to express their deepest thanks to the exceptional healthcare team who provided comfort and dignity in her final months: Community Health Nurses Cheryl Boone and Twila Savoury; Dr. Bragg from the Palliative Health Team; the nurses at Palliative Care; and the compassionate "Angels of Hope" caregivers, Safa and Luwam. The kindness we received from all these people has been very appreciated and helped us support Madonna at home as long as possible.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Madonna’s life will be held at a later date.
|
'Obituary for Audrey French, May 23, 2026, age 55.
|
|
January 23, 1971 - May 23, 2026:
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Audrey Rachel French at age 55.
Audrey passed peacefully away surrounded by her family on May 23, 2026, at the Health Sciences Centre.
Leaving to mourn her husband of 36 years, Rick Young, her 2 children Kesha (Jordan) and Zachary, both of whom were her whole world. Her mother Audrey, brother Dean (Carmel) her sister and best friend Anna. Mother-in-law Mary Young, sisters-in-law Rose (Chris), Donna (Byron), Debbie (Bill), Brothers-in-law, Pat (Lil), and Tim.
Audrey is predeceased by her father Phonse Smith, Father-in-law Patrick Young, stepfather Robert Bowdring,uncle Arthur French, grandparents and great-grandparents on both sides of the French and Smith families. She also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. She will be deeply missed by her 2 fur grand babies Timmie and Turbo.
Service will be held at St. Cyprian's Church, Bell Island on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at 2 p.m. Burial will follow immediately at St. Boniface Cemetery. Reception will follow at St. Cyprian's Church Hall.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Audrey Rachel French at age 55.
Audrey passed peacefully away surrounded by her family on May 23, 2026, at the Health Sciences Centre.
Leaving to mourn her husband of 36 years, Rick Young, her 2 children Kesha (Jordan) and Zachary, both of whom were her whole world. Her mother Audrey, brother Dean (Carmel) her sister and best friend Anna. Mother-in-law Mary Young, sisters-in-law Rose (Chris), Donna (Byron), Debbie (Bill), Brothers-in-law, Pat (Lil), and Tim.
Audrey is predeceased by her father Phonse Smith, Father-in-law Patrick Young, stepfather Robert Bowdring,uncle Arthur French, grandparents and great-grandparents on both sides of the French and Smith families. She also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. She will be deeply missed by her 2 fur grand babies Timmie and Turbo.
Service will be held at St. Cyprian's Church, Bell Island on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at 2 p.m. Burial will follow immediately at St. Boniface Cemetery. Reception will follow at St. Cyprian's Church Hall.
|
Obituary for Sharon Skanes, May 24, 2026, age 54.
|
|
May 19, 1972 - May 24, 2026:
With broken hearts, we announce the passing of Sharon Diane Skanes, who left us peacefully on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the Health Sciences Centre after a lengthy illness, at the age of 54. Sharon faced every challenge with courage, humour, and an unwavering devotion to the people she loved—especially her daughter.
Sharon was, above all else, a mother. Her precious daughter Faith was the light of her life, her greatest joy, and the reason she fought so hard for so long. Every decision Sharon made, every bit of strength she found, and every hope she held onto was rooted in her love for Faith. Their bond was deep, tender, and unshakeable, and Sharon’s love will continue to guide Faith in the years ahead.
Predeceased by her father, Frank. Leaving to mourn with cherished memories her beloved daughter Faith; her devoted partner Barry; her mother Linda; her brother Frank (Laurie); aunts Marjorie Dempsey and Elaine Kavanagh; uncles Walter Skanes, Lorne Vokey, and Walter Pitts; her nephew Brian; special brother‑in‑law Dominic. Sharon will also be dearly missed by her special friend Wayne Power, whose kindness and transportation support meant so much to her, as well as by a wide circle of relatives and friends who were touched by her warmth, generosity, and laughter.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the many caregivers who supported Sharon over the past several years. Whether through medical care, home support, or simple acts of kindness, you helped Sharon maintain dignity, strength, and moments of peace. Your compassion will never be forgotten.
Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Friday, May 29th, from 2–5 pm and 7–9 pm, and Saturday May 30th from 12-2pm at Pendergast Funeral Home, Bell Island. A funeral service celebrating Sharon’s life will take place on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 2:30 pm at St. Cyprian’s & St. Mary’s Anglican Parish, Bell Island, with interment to follow at St. Cyprian’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of one’s choice in Sharon’s memory.
With broken hearts, we announce the passing of Sharon Diane Skanes, who left us peacefully on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the Health Sciences Centre after a lengthy illness, at the age of 54. Sharon faced every challenge with courage, humour, and an unwavering devotion to the people she loved—especially her daughter.
Sharon was, above all else, a mother. Her precious daughter Faith was the light of her life, her greatest joy, and the reason she fought so hard for so long. Every decision Sharon made, every bit of strength she found, and every hope she held onto was rooted in her love for Faith. Their bond was deep, tender, and unshakeable, and Sharon’s love will continue to guide Faith in the years ahead.
Predeceased by her father, Frank. Leaving to mourn with cherished memories her beloved daughter Faith; her devoted partner Barry; her mother Linda; her brother Frank (Laurie); aunts Marjorie Dempsey and Elaine Kavanagh; uncles Walter Skanes, Lorne Vokey, and Walter Pitts; her nephew Brian; special brother‑in‑law Dominic. Sharon will also be dearly missed by her special friend Wayne Power, whose kindness and transportation support meant so much to her, as well as by a wide circle of relatives and friends who were touched by her warmth, generosity, and laughter.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the many caregivers who supported Sharon over the past several years. Whether through medical care, home support, or simple acts of kindness, you helped Sharon maintain dignity, strength, and moments of peace. Your compassion will never be forgotten.
Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Friday, May 29th, from 2–5 pm and 7–9 pm, and Saturday May 30th from 12-2pm at Pendergast Funeral Home, Bell Island. A funeral service celebrating Sharon’s life will take place on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 2:30 pm at St. Cyprian’s & St. Mary’s Anglican Parish, Bell Island, with interment to follow at St. Cyprian’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of one’s choice in Sharon’s memory.
|
Obituary for Margaret Hann, May 23, 2026, age 79.
|
|
October 24, 1946 - May 23, 2026:
Margaret Sarah Hann left this world on May 23, 2026, at home in Bell Island, at the age of 79 years.
She is predeceased by her dear sister Susan, her parents Loil and Millicent Hann, sister in law Paula, brother in law George Brown and a special friend, Florence Maddigan.
She leaves to mourn her brothers Walt ( Chris ), John, Bruce ( Val ), Mel ( Denise ) and Colin, " the baby, " as she affectionately called him ( Lori ). She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family and a wide circle of friends.
Over the years, Marg was blessed to have received the support of physicians and nurse practitioners, ambulance staff and staff at The Dr. Walter Templeman Health Centre.
She was a social butterfly, loving to be involved in community activities. Thank you to her friends who welcomed her at the foodbank, the legion dart league and the bell island 50+ club....she was happiest when involved.
Margs friends meant the world to her, especially Evelyn Hunt, Rosalie Eveleigh, Isabel Power, Rose Dobbin and Lorraine Galway. Special thanks to Linda Thoms for getting her to and from church, to Shelly Thoms for keeping her beautiful, and Vida Gough for her many visits and nourishing food. We would like to extend special gratitude, as well, to Keith and Golda Sweeney, lifetime friends, neighbours and caregivers, always looking out for " Margie. " She loved each and every one of you in a special way.
Marg would not have been able to fulfill her wish to stay at home, without the love and dedication of her many home care workers. Heartfelt thanks to Miriam Brown for the last 3+ years and Sharon Byrne for the last 2+ years, who provided exemplary care, friendship and love to Marg. You both started as caregivers and became extended family. Our thanks as well to Emma Hawco and Elsie Drover for their care and attention.
To Sheryl Somerton, community health nurse, we extend our gratitude. Your attention to detail, your advice and advocacy were appreciated so much. The compassion shown to our family will never be forgotten.
Marg will be resting at Pendergasts funeral home on Thursday May 28 from 10am to 1 pm, with a service at Jackson United Church at 2 pm. Internment to follow. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Jackson United Church, PO Box 1139 Bell Island, in her memory. "Until we meet again my ducky. "
Margaret Sarah Hann left this world on May 23, 2026, at home in Bell Island, at the age of 79 years.
She is predeceased by her dear sister Susan, her parents Loil and Millicent Hann, sister in law Paula, brother in law George Brown and a special friend, Florence Maddigan.
She leaves to mourn her brothers Walt ( Chris ), John, Bruce ( Val ), Mel ( Denise ) and Colin, " the baby, " as she affectionately called him ( Lori ). She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family and a wide circle of friends.
Over the years, Marg was blessed to have received the support of physicians and nurse practitioners, ambulance staff and staff at The Dr. Walter Templeman Health Centre.
She was a social butterfly, loving to be involved in community activities. Thank you to her friends who welcomed her at the foodbank, the legion dart league and the bell island 50+ club....she was happiest when involved.
Margs friends meant the world to her, especially Evelyn Hunt, Rosalie Eveleigh, Isabel Power, Rose Dobbin and Lorraine Galway. Special thanks to Linda Thoms for getting her to and from church, to Shelly Thoms for keeping her beautiful, and Vida Gough for her many visits and nourishing food. We would like to extend special gratitude, as well, to Keith and Golda Sweeney, lifetime friends, neighbours and caregivers, always looking out for " Margie. " She loved each and every one of you in a special way.
Marg would not have been able to fulfill her wish to stay at home, without the love and dedication of her many home care workers. Heartfelt thanks to Miriam Brown for the last 3+ years and Sharon Byrne for the last 2+ years, who provided exemplary care, friendship and love to Marg. You both started as caregivers and became extended family. Our thanks as well to Emma Hawco and Elsie Drover for their care and attention.
To Sheryl Somerton, community health nurse, we extend our gratitude. Your attention to detail, your advice and advocacy were appreciated so much. The compassion shown to our family will never be forgotten.
Marg will be resting at Pendergasts funeral home on Thursday May 28 from 10am to 1 pm, with a service at Jackson United Church at 2 pm. Internment to follow. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Jackson United Church, PO Box 1139 Bell Island, in her memory. "Until we meet again my ducky. "
|
Today in the History of Bell Island: On May 24th, 1898 (3 years after mining started), the growing importance of Bell Island in the economy of Newfoundland was recognized when the Government constituted our Island a "Port of Entry" for the Colony (of Newfoundland). This followed the appointment, on May 17, 1898, of our first Customs Officer, John J. McGrath. Below is a photo of what our Port of Entry looked like in 1898. This was our first shipping pier which, at that time, was the Scotia Pier. A year later it would be sold to the Dominion Company and be forever after that known as Dominion Pier. Photo courtesy of A&SC, MUN Library, Acc. 11-148, Vey. To read more about the history of the Scotia and Dominion Piers on this website, click the button on the right>>>
|
|
Obituary for John Basha, May 22, 2026, age 78.
|
|
July 28, 1947 - May 22, 2026:
It is with deep sadness and love that we announce the peaceful passing of John Patrick Basha, who passed away at the Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador on May 22nd surrounded by those who loved him dearly — his beloved daughter Allison Basha, his sister Cecilia Kent, his brother Vince Basha (Mary) and dear friend Bruce Power.
Born and raised on Bell Island, NL, John was deeply proud of both his Newfoundland roots and his Lebanese heritage. He carried that pride throughout his life with warmth, humour, generosity, and a deep appreciation for family and community. John later made Stephenville his home, where he dedicated many years to a meaningful career in education, touching the lives of countless students and colleagues through his kindness, patience, and steady presence.
John was predeceased by his loving parents, Martha and Joseph Basha; his beloved Aunt Vicky Carbage; his sister Marion Scanlon, cousin Mike Vickers, and Allison’s mother Ann Marie Nolan, all of whom he held close in his heart throughout his life.
He leaves behind a large circle of family and friends who loved him deeply and will miss him tremendously. John was a proud and devoted father to Allison, and a cherished brother, uncle, mentor, and friend. He shared especially close bonds with Stephen and Michael Vickers, whom he loved like sons. Special cousin Tom Gosine and family, and brother in-law Joe Scanlon. He will also be lovingly remembered by his nieces Jo-Ann Moore, Erin Kent, Janine Basha, Mary Ann Scanlon, Christa-Jo Branton, and Jennifer Berlin. His nephews Mark Kent, Ryan Kent, Paul Basha, and Joseph Scanlon junior, and along with many extended family members, lifelong friends, former students, and members of the community whose lives he touched over the years.
The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Ennis and staff at St. Patrick’s Mercy Home, especially the caregivers on the 3rd Floor Dementia Ward, for the exceptional care, dignity, and kindness shown to John. Special thanks as well to his devoted care workers in Stephenville, Marilyn Hewlin, Becky Parson and Gerrad Hinks, for their support, friendship, and care. The staff of the Health Sciences Centre (ER & 5 North B). And finally we acknowledge the ongoing support of the Son of a Critch family.
John will be remembered for his gentle spirit, storytelling, sense of humour, loyalty to family, and the warmth he brought into every room. He was deeply loved by many, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. At John’s request there will be no visitation or service. A celebration of life will be planned on Bell Island at a later date. May he rest peacefully.
It is with deep sadness and love that we announce the peaceful passing of John Patrick Basha, who passed away at the Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador on May 22nd surrounded by those who loved him dearly — his beloved daughter Allison Basha, his sister Cecilia Kent, his brother Vince Basha (Mary) and dear friend Bruce Power.
Born and raised on Bell Island, NL, John was deeply proud of both his Newfoundland roots and his Lebanese heritage. He carried that pride throughout his life with warmth, humour, generosity, and a deep appreciation for family and community. John later made Stephenville his home, where he dedicated many years to a meaningful career in education, touching the lives of countless students and colleagues through his kindness, patience, and steady presence.
John was predeceased by his loving parents, Martha and Joseph Basha; his beloved Aunt Vicky Carbage; his sister Marion Scanlon, cousin Mike Vickers, and Allison’s mother Ann Marie Nolan, all of whom he held close in his heart throughout his life.
He leaves behind a large circle of family and friends who loved him deeply and will miss him tremendously. John was a proud and devoted father to Allison, and a cherished brother, uncle, mentor, and friend. He shared especially close bonds with Stephen and Michael Vickers, whom he loved like sons. Special cousin Tom Gosine and family, and brother in-law Joe Scanlon. He will also be lovingly remembered by his nieces Jo-Ann Moore, Erin Kent, Janine Basha, Mary Ann Scanlon, Christa-Jo Branton, and Jennifer Berlin. His nephews Mark Kent, Ryan Kent, Paul Basha, and Joseph Scanlon junior, and along with many extended family members, lifelong friends, former students, and members of the community whose lives he touched over the years.
The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Ennis and staff at St. Patrick’s Mercy Home, especially the caregivers on the 3rd Floor Dementia Ward, for the exceptional care, dignity, and kindness shown to John. Special thanks as well to his devoted care workers in Stephenville, Marilyn Hewlin, Becky Parson and Gerrad Hinks, for their support, friendship, and care. The staff of the Health Sciences Centre (ER & 5 North B). And finally we acknowledge the ongoing support of the Son of a Critch family.
John will be remembered for his gentle spirit, storytelling, sense of humour, loyalty to family, and the warmth he brought into every room. He was deeply loved by many, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. At John’s request there will be no visitation or service. A celebration of life will be planned on Bell Island at a later date. May he rest peacefully.
|
Back in the Day on Bell Island: This delightful c.1958 memory is from Dave Careless: "I remember when my dog, Patch, was young, still just a puppy really, and my mother took him for a walk down to Town Square. She had him on a leash, and such was the rarity of ever seeing a dog on a leash on Bell Island, a young girl approached my mother and asked her, "Is that dog saucy, Missus?" To my knowledge, that was the only time Patch was ever on a leash and, no, he was definitely never saucy, ever. LOL"
To read more of Dave's dogs & cats stories, click the button: |
This is a picture of young Dave and his faithful dog, Patch, c.1958.
|
|
Obituary for Effie (nee Hammond) Sheppard, May 18, 2026, age 88.
|
|
August 9, 1937 - May 18, 2026:
Effie May Sheppard (Hammond) passed peacefully away on May 18, 2026, in her 88th year with family by her side. Born on Bell Island in 1937, Effie moved to St. John’s in her late teens and earned her RN from the Grace Hospital. She married David Sheppard in 1959, and together they welcomed five children, and later 13 grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She was deeply involved with St. Mark’s Anglican Church, and in her spare time she loved to read, visit with friends and family, and to beat all comers at Scrabble, especially when laying all her tiles across a triple.
Effie is predeceased by her husband David Sheppard, to whom she was married for 53 years; parents Fred and Matilda Hammond; brother Robert Hammond; and granddaughter Michelle Short.
Leaving to mourn are daughters Sharon (Bill), Debbie (Mike), Lori (Leslie); sons Keith (Lauren) and Brian (Kimberley); granddaughters Jennifer, Amanda, Emily, Heather, Sarah, Elsie and Julie; grandsons Ryan, Bradley, Tim, Robert and Eric; and great-grandchildren Abby, Alex, Asher, Emma, Ruby, and Lenny; sister Emmie (Eddie); and brother Walter (Patricia).
Sincere thanks to the nurses and staff at St. Clare’s for the outstanding care they provided Effie in her final days.
Visitation will be held at Carnell’s Funeral Home, 329 Freshwater Rd, St. John’s, on Wednesday, May 20 from 2:30 to 4:30 pm and 7:00 to 9:00 pm. A funeral service will be held at St. Mark’s Anglican Church on Thursday, May 21 at 11 am. Private interment to follow the service at the Anglican Cemetery on Forest Road.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Effie’s memory can be made to the Janeway Children’s Hospital.
Effie May Sheppard (Hammond) passed peacefully away on May 18, 2026, in her 88th year with family by her side. Born on Bell Island in 1937, Effie moved to St. John’s in her late teens and earned her RN from the Grace Hospital. She married David Sheppard in 1959, and together they welcomed five children, and later 13 grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She was deeply involved with St. Mark’s Anglican Church, and in her spare time she loved to read, visit with friends and family, and to beat all comers at Scrabble, especially when laying all her tiles across a triple.
Effie is predeceased by her husband David Sheppard, to whom she was married for 53 years; parents Fred and Matilda Hammond; brother Robert Hammond; and granddaughter Michelle Short.
Leaving to mourn are daughters Sharon (Bill), Debbie (Mike), Lori (Leslie); sons Keith (Lauren) and Brian (Kimberley); granddaughters Jennifer, Amanda, Emily, Heather, Sarah, Elsie and Julie; grandsons Ryan, Bradley, Tim, Robert and Eric; and great-grandchildren Abby, Alex, Asher, Emma, Ruby, and Lenny; sister Emmie (Eddie); and brother Walter (Patricia).
Sincere thanks to the nurses and staff at St. Clare’s for the outstanding care they provided Effie in her final days.
Visitation will be held at Carnell’s Funeral Home, 329 Freshwater Rd, St. John’s, on Wednesday, May 20 from 2:30 to 4:30 pm and 7:00 to 9:00 pm. A funeral service will be held at St. Mark’s Anglican Church on Thursday, May 21 at 11 am. Private interment to follow the service at the Anglican Cemetery on Forest Road.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Effie’s memory can be made to the Janeway Children’s Hospital.
|
Obituary for Karen (nee Barrett) Pitts, May 15, 2026, age 61.
|
|
February 17, 1965 - May 15, 2026:
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear wife, mother, daughter, sister, niece, cousin, and friend to so many. Karen Yvonne Pitts (née Barrett), age 61, passed peacefully on May 15, 2026, in the presence of her loving family after a long and courageous battle with cancer—unafraid and with an open heart.
Born on February 17, 1965, Karen was a loving wife to Lloyd for 38 years and a devoted mother to Brittany (Kyle) and John (Sara). She was predeceased by her grandparents Arthur and Ellen Clarke, John and Elsie Barrett, father-in-law Lloyd Pitts, brother-in-law John Pitts—all of Bell Island, NL—and her two precious fur babies, Zeus and Chanse, whom she loved dearly.
Karen leaves to mourn her loving parents, Winston Barrett (Marilyn) and Marjorie Basha (Ken); her sisters, Juanita (Bill) and Judy (Kelvin); her mother-in-law, Helen Pitts; her sister-in-law, Paula (Gary); and her brother-in-law, Keith. She will also be sadly missed by her nieces and nephews: Ashlee (Nick), John, Helena (Charlie), Jordan, and her precious great-niece, Rose.
Karen also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, and cousins, though a few special family members deserve heartfelt recognition. Judy Clarke-Reid, you were there from the very beginning and stood faithfully by Karen’s side throughout her journey—taking her to appointments and treatments and helping her through the initial shock of her diagnosis. When you relocated to NL, Diane Pynn stepped in, providing much-needed laughter, comfort, and support as Karen’s journey progressed.
A special thank you is also extended to Paula Pitts, who traveled from NL to spend weeks by Karen’s side during her initial chemotherapy treatments, offering companionship, care, and unwavering support during a difficult time. Our family will be forever grateful to each of you.
Karen lived her life with passion and joy and was always eager to open her home to family and friends, showering them with love and hospitality. She loved hosting a Christmas Eve "open house," where she baked goodies and Lloyd made his famous pea soup! Karen was known for her sense of humor, her love of music and dancing, her flair for baking (she baked a mean carrot cake!), crocheting and knitting (we will always cherish her crocheted Christmas decorations to hang on our tree every year!), and her unwavering devotion to her family.
Born in Toronto, ON, Karen moved with her family to Bell Island, NL, in 1974 and then returned to Cambridge, ON, as an adult with her husband, Lloyd, where they put down roots and started their family.
When Karen was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in June 2022, she didn’t waver or ask, "Why me?" She met the challenge head-on with grace and dignity, never allowing the disease to define her, while teaching us what it means to truly live.
A Memorial Service will be held at Trinity Anglican Church, 12 Blair Road, Cambridge, ON, on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at 11 a.m. with Visitation being held from 10-11a.m. at the Church. A Celebration of Life will follow immediately at the Cambridge NL Club.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Karen’s memory to a cancer charity of your choice or to the Wabana Boys and Girls Club.
We also extend a special thank you to the doctors and nurses at the Cambridge Memorial Hospital Medical Day and Oncology Clinic, who provided excellent care and support.
Karen, God saw that you were tired, and a cure was not to be;
So He put His arms around you and whispered, "Come to Me."
We will miss you terribly, but we know that we will see you again someday.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear wife, mother, daughter, sister, niece, cousin, and friend to so many. Karen Yvonne Pitts (née Barrett), age 61, passed peacefully on May 15, 2026, in the presence of her loving family after a long and courageous battle with cancer—unafraid and with an open heart.
Born on February 17, 1965, Karen was a loving wife to Lloyd for 38 years and a devoted mother to Brittany (Kyle) and John (Sara). She was predeceased by her grandparents Arthur and Ellen Clarke, John and Elsie Barrett, father-in-law Lloyd Pitts, brother-in-law John Pitts—all of Bell Island, NL—and her two precious fur babies, Zeus and Chanse, whom she loved dearly.
Karen leaves to mourn her loving parents, Winston Barrett (Marilyn) and Marjorie Basha (Ken); her sisters, Juanita (Bill) and Judy (Kelvin); her mother-in-law, Helen Pitts; her sister-in-law, Paula (Gary); and her brother-in-law, Keith. She will also be sadly missed by her nieces and nephews: Ashlee (Nick), John, Helena (Charlie), Jordan, and her precious great-niece, Rose.
Karen also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, and cousins, though a few special family members deserve heartfelt recognition. Judy Clarke-Reid, you were there from the very beginning and stood faithfully by Karen’s side throughout her journey—taking her to appointments and treatments and helping her through the initial shock of her diagnosis. When you relocated to NL, Diane Pynn stepped in, providing much-needed laughter, comfort, and support as Karen’s journey progressed.
A special thank you is also extended to Paula Pitts, who traveled from NL to spend weeks by Karen’s side during her initial chemotherapy treatments, offering companionship, care, and unwavering support during a difficult time. Our family will be forever grateful to each of you.
Karen lived her life with passion and joy and was always eager to open her home to family and friends, showering them with love and hospitality. She loved hosting a Christmas Eve "open house," where she baked goodies and Lloyd made his famous pea soup! Karen was known for her sense of humor, her love of music and dancing, her flair for baking (she baked a mean carrot cake!), crocheting and knitting (we will always cherish her crocheted Christmas decorations to hang on our tree every year!), and her unwavering devotion to her family.
Born in Toronto, ON, Karen moved with her family to Bell Island, NL, in 1974 and then returned to Cambridge, ON, as an adult with her husband, Lloyd, where they put down roots and started their family.
When Karen was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in June 2022, she didn’t waver or ask, "Why me?" She met the challenge head-on with grace and dignity, never allowing the disease to define her, while teaching us what it means to truly live.
A Memorial Service will be held at Trinity Anglican Church, 12 Blair Road, Cambridge, ON, on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at 11 a.m. with Visitation being held from 10-11a.m. at the Church. A Celebration of Life will follow immediately at the Cambridge NL Club.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Karen’s memory to a cancer charity of your choice or to the Wabana Boys and Girls Club.
We also extend a special thank you to the doctors and nurses at the Cambridge Memorial Hospital Medical Day and Oncology Clinic, who provided excellent care and support.
Karen, God saw that you were tired, and a cure was not to be;
So He put His arms around you and whispered, "Come to Me."
We will miss you terribly, but we know that we will see you again someday.
|
Today in the History of Bell Island: On May 20, 1956, in the early morning hours, the 3-storey Company Staff House on the East Track (now Steve Neary Blvd) where it meets Church Road (opposite the Sports Field) burnt to the ground. 12 people, consisting of male boarders and female household staff, escaped without serious injury. One man, Aime Moquin, perished in the fire. You can read more about him and this tragedy on my website by clicking the button below:
|
|
|
Happy May 24th / Victoria Day Weekend! To read about this holiday tradition on Bell Island in 1955, click on the link: https://www.historic-wabana.com/victoria-day.html BTW: The ferries referred to in the article on the right were the Kipawo, which carried only 7 cars, and the Maneco, which carried only 5 cars. The Maneco was withdrawn from service later in 1955 when it was replaced by the Elmer Jones, which was Bell Island's first drive-on ferry and could carry 20 cars. |
|
Below is a picture of some of the staff in the Dominion Wabana Ore Main Office, c. early 1950s. 1st man on the left is Gerald Power; #2 is Eva Pitts; #3 is Jack Tarrant; #4 unknown; #5 standing in back in sweater vest is believed to be Peter Fitzgerald; #6 in front of Peter is unknown; #7 unknown. Photo courtesy of Lydia Bennett. (If you recognize any of the unknowns, please get in touch at [email protected])
On April 5, 1932, the Colonial Building in St. John's, then the House of Assembly of the Newfoundland government under the leadership of Prime Minister Sir Richard Squires, was the scene of a peaceful protest that quickly degenerated into riots and violence, prompted by the Great Depression and corruption within the Squires administration. The April 7th, 1932 telegram pictured below is from a group of concerned Bell Island citizens and is among a folder of similar telegrams in the Richard Squires Collection at Archives & Special Collections in the MUN Library. Photo courtesy of Archivist Linda White.
|
Obituary for Jo-Ann Simon, May 5, 2026, age 56.
|
|
August 7, 1969 - May 5, 2026:
Jo-Ann Gladys Simon passed away unexpectedly on May 5th, 2026 at Cambridge Memorial Hospital at the age of 56. Jo-ann is survived by her husband of 33 years, Barry Yetman, and her two daughters, Jessica and Jennifer. Born on August 7th, 1969 on Bell Island, Newfoundland, Jo-ann was predeceased by her father Gerald Simon and is survived by her mother, Verna Simon. She was the cherished sister of Barry Simon (Debbie), and a loving aunt, niece, cousin and friend to many.
Jo-ann was a truly unforgettable individual: loving, kind, generous, funny, honest, and thoughtful. Though she was not without pain, Jo-ann worked hard for her family and constantly fulfilled her role of mother to her children, and to those who needed her to be such. She imparted something special upon every person she met, and it is without a doubt she will live on through the hearts of those who loved her, forever.
A visitation will take place at Corbett Funeral Home (95 Dundas St N) in Cambridge on Thursday May 7th from 6-8 pm. A funeral mass will take place at St. Patrick’s Parish (53 Wellington St) in Cambridge on Friday May 8th at 11 am, followed by the burial at Parklawn Cemetery, and a reception to follow at Corbett Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cambridge Memorial Hospital. Jo-ann’s family extend their thanks to all of the healthcare workers who took part in her care and comfort during her stay.
Jo-Ann Gladys Simon passed away unexpectedly on May 5th, 2026 at Cambridge Memorial Hospital at the age of 56. Jo-ann is survived by her husband of 33 years, Barry Yetman, and her two daughters, Jessica and Jennifer. Born on August 7th, 1969 on Bell Island, Newfoundland, Jo-ann was predeceased by her father Gerald Simon and is survived by her mother, Verna Simon. She was the cherished sister of Barry Simon (Debbie), and a loving aunt, niece, cousin and friend to many.
Jo-ann was a truly unforgettable individual: loving, kind, generous, funny, honest, and thoughtful. Though she was not without pain, Jo-ann worked hard for her family and constantly fulfilled her role of mother to her children, and to those who needed her to be such. She imparted something special upon every person she met, and it is without a doubt she will live on through the hearts of those who loved her, forever.
A visitation will take place at Corbett Funeral Home (95 Dundas St N) in Cambridge on Thursday May 7th from 6-8 pm. A funeral mass will take place at St. Patrick’s Parish (53 Wellington St) in Cambridge on Friday May 8th at 11 am, followed by the burial at Parklawn Cemetery, and a reception to follow at Corbett Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cambridge Memorial Hospital. Jo-ann’s family extend their thanks to all of the healthcare workers who took part in her care and comfort during her stay.
|
Obituary for Josephine (nee Whalen) Wall, April 22, 2026, age 86. |
|
October 17, 1939 - April 22, 2026:
Josephine Wall, 86 of Cambridge passed away on April 22, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Bell Island, Newfoundland on October 17, 1939, she was the daughter of the late John and Annie Whalen.
She is survived by her loving husband Peter of 51 years: Her children Betty (Larry), Raymond (Sandi), Ronald (Lana): 11 Grandchildren and 22 Great-Grandchildren; three brothers and two sisters.
She was preceded in death by five brothers, three sisters, sons John and Paul: one Grandson and one Great-Grand-daughter.
In accordance with Josephine’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private Celebration of Life for her family at a later date in May.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer Society would be appreciated.
Josephine Wall, 86 of Cambridge passed away on April 22, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Bell Island, Newfoundland on October 17, 1939, she was the daughter of the late John and Annie Whalen.
She is survived by her loving husband Peter of 51 years: Her children Betty (Larry), Raymond (Sandi), Ronald (Lana): 11 Grandchildren and 22 Great-Grandchildren; three brothers and two sisters.
She was preceded in death by five brothers, three sisters, sons John and Paul: one Grandson and one Great-Grand-daughter.
In accordance with Josephine’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private Celebration of Life for her family at a later date in May.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer Society would be appreciated.
|
Obituary for Nelson Penney, May 9, 2026, age 81.
|
|
June 1, 1944 - May 9, 2006:
Nelson, originally from Bell Island, passed peacefully away at Chancellor Park, 3 weeks shy of his 82nd birthday.
He is predeceased by his parents and partner, Violet.
Left to mourn are his children, Scott (Florence), Crystal (Rob), Sheldon and Ebony (Blair), along with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Also left to mourn are his siblings, numerous nieces and nephews, members of Violet’s family and friends.
The family would like to thank Nelson’s very special home care worker, Portia, and the staff of Morgan 2, Chancellor Park for their care.
As per his wishes, there will be no viewing or service.
Nelson, originally from Bell Island, passed peacefully away at Chancellor Park, 3 weeks shy of his 82nd birthday.
He is predeceased by his parents and partner, Violet.
Left to mourn are his children, Scott (Florence), Crystal (Rob), Sheldon and Ebony (Blair), along with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Also left to mourn are his siblings, numerous nieces and nephews, members of Violet’s family and friends.
The family would like to thank Nelson’s very special home care worker, Portia, and the staff of Morgan 2, Chancellor Park for their care.
As per his wishes, there will be no viewing or service.
|
Obituary for Jerome Lahey, May 2, 2026, age 69.
|
|
December 29, 1956 - May 2, 2026:Surrounded by loved ones, Jerome Lahey passed away on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 at The Dr. Walter Templeton Health Care Centre, at the age of 69.
Beloved husband of Kathleen; loving father of Sharon (Travis) and Chris (Teresa); cherished Poppy of T.J, Nicholas, and Brody.
Also left to mourn, his sisters: Nora (Frank), Elizabeth (Paul), and Patricia (Bill); brother Billy; and his cousin and best friend who was like a brother to him, Raymond (Lorraine).
Jerome will now be reunited with his mother Elizabeth "Beth" and his father Richard "Dick"; and his two brothers: Leo and Doug. Jerome will be deeply remembered by all his family and friends.
Jerome was “The Jack of All Trades”, but plumbing was his specialty and he worked in the construction field for over 50 years. He also maintained sobriety for over 17 years, which is the accomplishment his family is most proud of! He loved to FaceTime his grandchildren, watch Country Western movies and listen to his favourite artist, Johnny Cash.
We feel your absence “pop” and we will forever cherish the memories we’ve made.
Cremation has taken place.
A service will be held at St. Michael’s Parish on Wednesday, May 6th, 2026 at 11:00am, followed by celebration of life at the St Michael’s Hall - to which we will invite you to share your stories and your smiles.
Beloved husband of Kathleen; loving father of Sharon (Travis) and Chris (Teresa); cherished Poppy of T.J, Nicholas, and Brody.
Also left to mourn, his sisters: Nora (Frank), Elizabeth (Paul), and Patricia (Bill); brother Billy; and his cousin and best friend who was like a brother to him, Raymond (Lorraine).
Jerome will now be reunited with his mother Elizabeth "Beth" and his father Richard "Dick"; and his two brothers: Leo and Doug. Jerome will be deeply remembered by all his family and friends.
Jerome was “The Jack of All Trades”, but plumbing was his specialty and he worked in the construction field for over 50 years. He also maintained sobriety for over 17 years, which is the accomplishment his family is most proud of! He loved to FaceTime his grandchildren, watch Country Western movies and listen to his favourite artist, Johnny Cash.
We feel your absence “pop” and we will forever cherish the memories we’ve made.
Cremation has taken place.
A service will be held at St. Michael’s Parish on Wednesday, May 6th, 2026 at 11:00am, followed by celebration of life at the St Michael’s Hall - to which we will invite you to share your stories and your smiles.
|
Obituary for Joanne Barnes, April 30, 2026, age 52.
|
|
|
George Brown passed away on April 30, 2026.
A celebration of life was held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at Jackson United Church, Bell Island. |
|
|
On this National Day of Mourning (April 28), we remember the 106 men and boys and one woman who lost their lives in various mining-related accidents over the lifetime of the Wabana mines and countless other employees who were injured to varying degrees. The list of fatalities on this website refers only to mine company employees killed in the mines, at the piers, or in other parts of the operation. It does not deal with those who died while commuting to or from work, or the 65 men lost when 4 ore carriers were torpedoed in The Tickle in 1942, or those non-employees who were killed by ore cars while crossing the tracks or hitching rides on the cars crossing the Island. We mourn them all. You can see the list of those killed by clicking the button below:
|
|
|
Today in the History of Bell Island: St. George’s Day, April 23rd, commemorates the death date of the Patron Saint of England and several other European countries. It is a provincial holiday in Newfoundland & Labrador, held on the closest Monday to the 23rd. It was an Anglican school holiday when I was a student in the 50s & 60s but, other than having the day off, I don’t recall any special celebration. The Daily News reported large parades by Bell Island's Protestant organizations in the early 1930s. You can read more about it on this website by clicking the button below>>>
|
|
|
Obituary for Wayne Young, April 13, 2026, age 70.
|
|
May 5, 1955 to April 13, 2026:
Wayne Young, 70, of Caledonia passed away suddenly on April 13th 2026. He is survived by his wife (and best friend of 46 years) Beverley, and his daughter Andrea. He is also survived by his two younger brothers, his sister, several half siblings, and a large extended family.
Born William Wayne Young on Bell Island in Newfoundland May 5th, 1955. He joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1974, served as a peacekeeper in the Cyprus war, and finally retired from service in 1993. He spent the next 25 years as a long haul trucker across Canada and the U.S.
Always a busy body who hated to sit still, after he retired he got a job as a local school bus driver where he found a new joy interacting with the kids on his bus. He was passionate about politics and history, even researching his family tree back to the 1600s. Not one to be pushed around, he was upfront and outspoken, but was always the first person to offer help to anyone in need. He had a soft spot for animals, and would always carry dog treats in his pocket for every dog he met.
Wayne moved to Caledonia in 2012 and gained a great fondness for his new community and felt peace on his balcony overlooking the Grand River. Wayne often greeted or chatted with everyone he met and was grateful for the new friends and neighbours he gained, especially a group of guys he visited with at Tim Horton’s almost daily.
As per his wishes, Wayne will be cremated with no services or viewing to follow. Funeral arrangements entrusted to MILLER FUNERAL CHAPEL, Caledonia (905-765-2712). Friends and family are invited to send condolences and sign the Book of Memories at www.millerfuneralchapel.ca, his family would greatly appreciate it. If you wish to make a donation in his memory please consider the Canadian Lung Association, the SPCA or local animal shelter.
He will surely be missed.
Wayne Young, 70, of Caledonia passed away suddenly on April 13th 2026. He is survived by his wife (and best friend of 46 years) Beverley, and his daughter Andrea. He is also survived by his two younger brothers, his sister, several half siblings, and a large extended family.
Born William Wayne Young on Bell Island in Newfoundland May 5th, 1955. He joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1974, served as a peacekeeper in the Cyprus war, and finally retired from service in 1993. He spent the next 25 years as a long haul trucker across Canada and the U.S.
Always a busy body who hated to sit still, after he retired he got a job as a local school bus driver where he found a new joy interacting with the kids on his bus. He was passionate about politics and history, even researching his family tree back to the 1600s. Not one to be pushed around, he was upfront and outspoken, but was always the first person to offer help to anyone in need. He had a soft spot for animals, and would always carry dog treats in his pocket for every dog he met.
Wayne moved to Caledonia in 2012 and gained a great fondness for his new community and felt peace on his balcony overlooking the Grand River. Wayne often greeted or chatted with everyone he met and was grateful for the new friends and neighbours he gained, especially a group of guys he visited with at Tim Horton’s almost daily.
As per his wishes, Wayne will be cremated with no services or viewing to follow. Funeral arrangements entrusted to MILLER FUNERAL CHAPEL, Caledonia (905-765-2712). Friends and family are invited to send condolences and sign the Book of Memories at www.millerfuneralchapel.ca, his family would greatly appreciate it. If you wish to make a donation in his memory please consider the Canadian Lung Association, the SPCA or local animal shelter.
He will surely be missed.
|
Today in the History of Bell Island: On April 19, 1966, after 71 years of mining, the announcement was made that Dominion Wabana Mines would cease operations at the end of June 1966. Victor Southey was Resident Manager from 1957-1965. Following the shutdown by Hawker Siddeley, the last owner of the mines, Southey was part of DOSCO’s effort to persuade the Government of Newfoundland to take over the running of the mines, an effort which sadly failed. Three years later, the Canadian Mining & Metallurgical Bulletin published his paper entitled “History & Problems of the Wabana Submarine Iron Mines,” which I suspect he originally wrote as part of the attempt to keep the mines operating. The paper gives a good overview of the history of the mines, outlining the improvements to the operation over the years, and discusses the changes that were taking place in the steel-making industry, the discoveries of new iron ore deposits that were cheaper to mine, and the problems with the Wabana iron ore that eventually led to the closure of the mines. You can read it on this website by clicking the button on the right>>>
The aerial view of No. 3 Mine Yard below, as it was at the time the mines closed, is from the Southey collection of photographs, courtesy of A&SC, MUN Library. |
|
|
THIS MONTH IN THE HISTORY OF BELL ISLAND: THE ANNUAL ICE BLOCKADE. The shipping season in Bell Island mining history ran from about late April of one year through to late February or early March of the next. Arctic ice travelling down the Newfoundland coast and packing into the bays impeded shipping most winters during March and April. It would often pack so tightly into Conception Bay that some hardy residents would take it upon themselves to walk, or skate, or even ride bicycles across the Tickle between Bell Island and Portugal Cove. Komatik sleds would be hitched to horses to pull freight across when supplies ran low on the Island. Seals would also migrate south with the Arctic ice and men would take their chances on the ice to obtain fresh seal meat to help feed their families, a necessity during lean years. You can read much more about the annual ice blockade by clicking the button on the right>>>
In the photo below is Charles Archibald, Manager of the Scotia Company operations at Wabana in 1919 until the Scotia and Dominion Companies merged under BESCO in 1922, at which time he became Manager of the entire Wabana operation. He retired from that position in 1948. With him is his wife, Ruth, and a friend of theirs. The photo was taken around 1915, courtesy of granddaughter, Ruth Archibald. |
|
|
Obituary for Rosanna (nee Gosse) Peddle, April 7, 2026, age 94.
|
|
September 12, 1931 to April 7, 2026:
Passed away peacefully at the Lionel Kelland Hospice, Grand Falls-Windsor, NL on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, with her family at her side, Mrs. Rosanna May (Rose) Peddle (nee Gosse), age 94.
She was predeceased by her husband, Alex; parents, Richard and Levina Gosse; brothers, George, Jim, Lloyd, Selby, Granville, and sister, Doris (Normore).
"Rose" was born on Bell Island, Nfld on Sept 12,1931.
She was the youngest of 7 siblings and a daughter, a sister, a cousin, an aunt,
a wife, a mother, a grandmother and great grandmother. After moving to Lewisporte with Alex and her family in 1964, she became a longtime member of the ACW and would often accompany the St. Paul's clergy to Glenwood and Norris Arm North churches to play the organ during the services there.
She loved her knitting and especially, the company of the pets over the years.
There are people (friends and neighbors) who cared for and supported her during the latter years of her life for whom the family is eternally grateful....from clearing snow and fixing broken water lines and clothes lines to supplying copious amounts of cat food and litter, and everything in between.
Her family would like to acknowledge the staff at Pleasantview Manor for their kindness and caring during the last months of her life.
Her family would also like to thank the staff at Lionel Kelland Hospice in Grand Falls for their amazing care and compassion during her final days on this earth.
Left to mourn her passing are her son, Gary (Myrna); daughter, Debbie (Lawrence); granddaughter, Leia (Harlan Martens); great-grandson, Michael Martens and a large circle of family and friends.
Public visitation will take place from Gordon Woolfrey Funeral Home, 262 Main Street, Lewisporte, on Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM.
The Funeral service will take place from St. Paul’s Anglican Church on Friday, April 10, 2026 at 2PM. Interment will follow at St. Paul’s Anglican Cemetery.
As expression of sympathy, and in lieu of flowers, donations to the St. Paul’s Anglican Cemetery Fund or Lionel Kelland Hospice will be gratefully accepted.
Funeral Arrangements are entrusted to Gordon Woolfrey Funeral Home, 262 Main Street, Lewisporte, NL.
Passed away peacefully at the Lionel Kelland Hospice, Grand Falls-Windsor, NL on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, with her family at her side, Mrs. Rosanna May (Rose) Peddle (nee Gosse), age 94.
She was predeceased by her husband, Alex; parents, Richard and Levina Gosse; brothers, George, Jim, Lloyd, Selby, Granville, and sister, Doris (Normore).
"Rose" was born on Bell Island, Nfld on Sept 12,1931.
She was the youngest of 7 siblings and a daughter, a sister, a cousin, an aunt,
a wife, a mother, a grandmother and great grandmother. After moving to Lewisporte with Alex and her family in 1964, she became a longtime member of the ACW and would often accompany the St. Paul's clergy to Glenwood and Norris Arm North churches to play the organ during the services there.
She loved her knitting and especially, the company of the pets over the years.
There are people (friends and neighbors) who cared for and supported her during the latter years of her life for whom the family is eternally grateful....from clearing snow and fixing broken water lines and clothes lines to supplying copious amounts of cat food and litter, and everything in between.
Her family would like to acknowledge the staff at Pleasantview Manor for their kindness and caring during the last months of her life.
Her family would also like to thank the staff at Lionel Kelland Hospice in Grand Falls for their amazing care and compassion during her final days on this earth.
Left to mourn her passing are her son, Gary (Myrna); daughter, Debbie (Lawrence); granddaughter, Leia (Harlan Martens); great-grandson, Michael Martens and a large circle of family and friends.
Public visitation will take place from Gordon Woolfrey Funeral Home, 262 Main Street, Lewisporte, on Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM.
The Funeral service will take place from St. Paul’s Anglican Church on Friday, April 10, 2026 at 2PM. Interment will follow at St. Paul’s Anglican Cemetery.
As expression of sympathy, and in lieu of flowers, donations to the St. Paul’s Anglican Cemetery Fund or Lionel Kelland Hospice will be gratefully accepted.
Funeral Arrangements are entrusted to Gordon Woolfrey Funeral Home, 262 Main Street, Lewisporte, NL.
|
Obituary for Cyril Dwyer, April 4, 2026, age 83.
|
|
March 30, 1943 to April 4, 2026:
It is with heavy hearts that we announce Cyril Joseph Dwyer, age 83, passed peacefully away on Bell Island, April 4, 2026 surrounded by family and friends.
Predeceased by his mother and father, Richard and Veronica, sister, Betty, (Bill), grandson Riley and life long friend, Arch Durdle.
Leaving to mourn his children, Rick, (Marilyn), Cyril, (Dawn), Craig, (Colleen), Paula, (Colin) and their mother Marion Dwyer. His siblings, Ita, Ursula, Paul, (Tina), Norbert, (Mary Lou), and Junior, (Phyllis). Also grieving the loss are grandchildren, Krissie, (Adam), Brady, Riley,(deceased) Cassidy, Kelsey, Brooke, Sydney, Avery and two great grandchildren, Abigail and Wyatt. He also welcomed with a warm heart Dion, Keegan, Celeste and Charlee as part of his family.
Cyril was blessed with an extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. He cherished all of his relationships with family and friends and especially appreciated the love and support of his neighbour, good buddy and nephew, Blair. The family would also like to acknowledge his long time special friend, Irene.
Cyril was born and raised on Bell Island and was a Newfoundlander to the core. He raised his family on his farm while working all across the province in the Construction Industry and finally ending his working career with the Department of Transportation for the Bell Island ferry service. He was known for having a quick wit and sense of humour and loved visits from friends and family while sharing a Black Horse or a drink of rum, preferably Lambs. He was loved and respected by all and was well known as a bit of a hard case through his many antics and fool-hardy nature. The phrase “Quite the character” was often said to be coined after Cyril.
The family would like to thank all NL Health staff that provided care for Cyril over the last few years and specifically the staff of Lion’s Manor in Placentia for providing exceptional care and companionship during his residence since November 2025. We are also very grateful for the care and compassion given by Tammy Parsons Kavanagh to Cyril which provided the opportunity for him to stay in his Bell Island home for as long as possible.
Visitation will be held on Bell Island at Pendergast’s Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 7, from 7-9pm and Wednesday, April 8 from 3-5pm and 7-9 pm. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 9th, 2026 at 12:30pm at St. Michael’s Church. Interment to follow at the Roman Catholic Cemetery overlooking Conception Bay.
A reception will be held at St. Michael’s Parish Hall, immediately following the burial. All are welcome to join the family and share memories of Cyril.
Flowers gratefully accepted or donations to the Alzheimer Society of Newfoundland and Labrador in Cyril’s memory would be appreciated.
Dad loved his Irish heritage and often quoted the Irish blessing:
“May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be always at your back, may the sunshine warm upon your face, the rain fall soft upon your fields, and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.”
It is with heavy hearts that we announce Cyril Joseph Dwyer, age 83, passed peacefully away on Bell Island, April 4, 2026 surrounded by family and friends.
Predeceased by his mother and father, Richard and Veronica, sister, Betty, (Bill), grandson Riley and life long friend, Arch Durdle.
Leaving to mourn his children, Rick, (Marilyn), Cyril, (Dawn), Craig, (Colleen), Paula, (Colin) and their mother Marion Dwyer. His siblings, Ita, Ursula, Paul, (Tina), Norbert, (Mary Lou), and Junior, (Phyllis). Also grieving the loss are grandchildren, Krissie, (Adam), Brady, Riley,(deceased) Cassidy, Kelsey, Brooke, Sydney, Avery and two great grandchildren, Abigail and Wyatt. He also welcomed with a warm heart Dion, Keegan, Celeste and Charlee as part of his family.
Cyril was blessed with an extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. He cherished all of his relationships with family and friends and especially appreciated the love and support of his neighbour, good buddy and nephew, Blair. The family would also like to acknowledge his long time special friend, Irene.
Cyril was born and raised on Bell Island and was a Newfoundlander to the core. He raised his family on his farm while working all across the province in the Construction Industry and finally ending his working career with the Department of Transportation for the Bell Island ferry service. He was known for having a quick wit and sense of humour and loved visits from friends and family while sharing a Black Horse or a drink of rum, preferably Lambs. He was loved and respected by all and was well known as a bit of a hard case through his many antics and fool-hardy nature. The phrase “Quite the character” was often said to be coined after Cyril.
The family would like to thank all NL Health staff that provided care for Cyril over the last few years and specifically the staff of Lion’s Manor in Placentia for providing exceptional care and companionship during his residence since November 2025. We are also very grateful for the care and compassion given by Tammy Parsons Kavanagh to Cyril which provided the opportunity for him to stay in his Bell Island home for as long as possible.
Visitation will be held on Bell Island at Pendergast’s Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 7, from 7-9pm and Wednesday, April 8 from 3-5pm and 7-9 pm. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 9th, 2026 at 12:30pm at St. Michael’s Church. Interment to follow at the Roman Catholic Cemetery overlooking Conception Bay.
A reception will be held at St. Michael’s Parish Hall, immediately following the burial. All are welcome to join the family and share memories of Cyril.
Flowers gratefully accepted or donations to the Alzheimer Society of Newfoundland and Labrador in Cyril’s memory would be appreciated.
Dad loved his Irish heritage and often quoted the Irish blessing:
“May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be always at your back, may the sunshine warm upon your face, the rain fall soft upon your fields, and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.”
|
Obituary for William Shea, March 26, 2026, age 81.
|
|
April 17, 1944 to March 26, 2026:
William "Bill" Shea passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, at the age of 81, held in the loving arms of his devoted wife.
Bill was a truly remarkable man who lived his life with strength, courage, and an enduring joie de vivre.
He shared a beautiful love story with his wife of over 50 years - a partnership that began as best friends and grew into a lifelong bond filled with deep love, unwavering companionship, and endless laughter.
Together, they built a life rich in adventure. In their younger years, they explored Canada and the United States on motorcycles, embracing the open road and the freedom it brought. As the years went on, their travels continued by car and air, always side by side, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
Bill was deeply loved by his family. He was a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and his warmth, Kindness, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him, He had a gift for storytelling, captivating those around him with tales that reflected his humor, wisdom, and lived experiences.
In the final years of his life, Bill faced illness with the same resilience and grace that defined him. Even in difficult moments, his spirit remained strong. His passing, though peaceful, leaves an immeasurable loss-especially for his beloved wife, whose extraordinary bond with Bill will forever endure.
Cremation has taken place. As per Bill's wish, there will not be a funeral service.
Your wings were ready, Bill, but our hearts were not.
He will be forever missed, forever loved, and forever remembered.
William "Bill" Shea passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, at the age of 81, held in the loving arms of his devoted wife.
Bill was a truly remarkable man who lived his life with strength, courage, and an enduring joie de vivre.
He shared a beautiful love story with his wife of over 50 years - a partnership that began as best friends and grew into a lifelong bond filled with deep love, unwavering companionship, and endless laughter.
Together, they built a life rich in adventure. In their younger years, they explored Canada and the United States on motorcycles, embracing the open road and the freedom it brought. As the years went on, their travels continued by car and air, always side by side, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
Bill was deeply loved by his family. He was a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and his warmth, Kindness, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him, He had a gift for storytelling, captivating those around him with tales that reflected his humor, wisdom, and lived experiences.
In the final years of his life, Bill faced illness with the same resilience and grace that defined him. Even in difficult moments, his spirit remained strong. His passing, though peaceful, leaves an immeasurable loss-especially for his beloved wife, whose extraordinary bond with Bill will forever endure.
Cremation has taken place. As per Bill's wish, there will not be a funeral service.
Your wings were ready, Bill, but our hearts were not.
He will be forever missed, forever loved, and forever remembered.
|
Today in the History of Bell Island: On April 4, 1900, a sign of Bell Island’s growing importance in Newfoundland’s economy was the appointment of Peter Quigley as the community's first Preventive (Customs) Officer. 4 years later on this date in 1904, the St. John's Daily News said of Bell Island: No section of the Colony contributes anything like the proportion of wealth to the public treasury; in the face of which, their mail service is abominable, the roads are neglected, and the wharf conveniences necessary for the trade of the place are practically valueless. This August 1903 photo shows what the wharf at The Beach looked like as people gathered for the first Bell Island regatta. Photo from an album held at the Bell Island Community Museum.
|
|
|
Obituary for Judy (nee Searle) Noseworthy, March 8, 2026, age 82.
|
|
It is with the greatest sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, sister and grandmother Judy Ann Noseworthy (nee Searle) on March 8, 2026, age 82 on Bell Island, NL.
She was an active member of the Anglican Church Women and was well known for her fabulous squares throughout the community. Judy enjoyed serving her community, cooking for her family and spending time with her grandchildren.
She is survived by sons Ben (Kim) and Cyril (Joan), grandchildren Jules, Kevin (Anna) and Donna (Brian), great-grandchildren Chester, Ariel, Milo, Aravis, Fern, Russell (Amber), Robert (Alura), Daniel and Frances, sister Betty (Harold) and brother Jim (Joan) as well as numerous nieces and nephews and 4 great-great grandchildren. Judy was preceded in death by her husband Freeman, parents Benjamin and Suzanna (nee Hunt), siblings Ben (Lizzie), Ned (Mary), Lewellyn (Helen), Jack (Emily), Beatrice (Cyril), Elsie (George), Daphne (Jim) and Stella (Johnny), and grandchildren Nicola and Shawn.
Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of the lives of both Judy and Freeman will be held June 27, 2026, at St. Cyprian’s Anglican Church on Bell Island. Memorials may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
She was an active member of the Anglican Church Women and was well known for her fabulous squares throughout the community. Judy enjoyed serving her community, cooking for her family and spending time with her grandchildren.
She is survived by sons Ben (Kim) and Cyril (Joan), grandchildren Jules, Kevin (Anna) and Donna (Brian), great-grandchildren Chester, Ariel, Milo, Aravis, Fern, Russell (Amber), Robert (Alura), Daniel and Frances, sister Betty (Harold) and brother Jim (Joan) as well as numerous nieces and nephews and 4 great-great grandchildren. Judy was preceded in death by her husband Freeman, parents Benjamin and Suzanna (nee Hunt), siblings Ben (Lizzie), Ned (Mary), Lewellyn (Helen), Jack (Emily), Beatrice (Cyril), Elsie (George), Daphne (Jim) and Stella (Johnny), and grandchildren Nicola and Shawn.
Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of the lives of both Judy and Freeman will be held June 27, 2026, at St. Cyprian’s Anglican Church on Bell Island. Memorials may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
|
Obituary for Freeman Noseworthy, December 17, 2025, age 83.
|
|
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, brother, and grandfather Freeman Noseworthy on December 17, 2025, age 83 in St. John's, NL.
He was a Master Stonemason and a well-known member of the Bricklayers & Allied Craft Union who also enjoyed reading, drawing and spending time with his grandchildren.
He is survived by Wife Judy (nee Searle), sons Ben (Kim) and Cyril (Joan), grandchildren Jules, Kevin (Anna) and Donna (Brian), greatgrandchildren Chester, Ariel, Milo, Aravis, Fern, Russell (Amber), Robert (Alura), Daniel and Frances, brothers Wilson (Georgeanne), Raymond, Ralston (Mary), Wade (Lorraine), Gary (Debbie), Craig (Tana) and Lorne (Pat), sisters Betty, Lorraine, Joyce and Rose (Julienne) as well as numerous nieces and nephews and 4 great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Hilda (nee Gosse) and Fred, brother Richard, and grandchildren Nicola and Shawn.
Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be held in the summer. Memorials may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
He was a Master Stonemason and a well-known member of the Bricklayers & Allied Craft Union who also enjoyed reading, drawing and spending time with his grandchildren.
He is survived by Wife Judy (nee Searle), sons Ben (Kim) and Cyril (Joan), grandchildren Jules, Kevin (Anna) and Donna (Brian), greatgrandchildren Chester, Ariel, Milo, Aravis, Fern, Russell (Amber), Robert (Alura), Daniel and Frances, brothers Wilson (Georgeanne), Raymond, Ralston (Mary), Wade (Lorraine), Gary (Debbie), Craig (Tana) and Lorne (Pat), sisters Betty, Lorraine, Joyce and Rose (Julienne) as well as numerous nieces and nephews and 4 great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Hilda (nee Gosse) and Fred, brother Richard, and grandchildren Nicola and Shawn.
Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be held in the summer. Memorials may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
|
Happy Easter, Everyone! To read about how Easter was celebrated on Bell Island in past times, click on the button below. The photo is of a ceramic ornament the Easter Bunny delivered my chocolate egg in back in 1958. Yes, that's a real egg in the photo, which will give an idea of how small chocolate eggs were in the 1950s, and we felt lucky to get that!
|
|
|
Obituary for Patricia (nee Jackman) Drover, January 19, 2026, age 85.
|
|
Patricia Esther Drover, March 28, 1940 to January 19, 2026:
With profound sadness, we announce that Patricia passed away at her residence on Monday, January 19th, 2026, in her 86th year. Patricia was predeceased by her soulmate and loving husband, Harold Drover. Devoted mother to Beverly (John) O’Brien, and Derrick Drover (Jonita). She was the loving and proud Nan to Kyle O’Brien and Jessica Drover.
She is survived by her three sisters, Mary Rees, Betty Rushton, and Angela Keeping. She is predeceased by her parents Thomas Jackman and Mary (nee O’Brien), her five brothers, and six sisters.
There will be no visitation. Cremation has taken place, and a Memorial Mass will be held at St. Ambrose Church, 210 South Street, Cambridge on Friday, January 23rd, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. She will be laid to rest alongside her husband Harold at Mount View Cemetery in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, if you wish to honour Patricia’s memory, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Waterloo-Wellington or Cambridge Memorial Hospital Foundation.
“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always loved and deeply missed.”
With profound sadness, we announce that Patricia passed away at her residence on Monday, January 19th, 2026, in her 86th year. Patricia was predeceased by her soulmate and loving husband, Harold Drover. Devoted mother to Beverly (John) O’Brien, and Derrick Drover (Jonita). She was the loving and proud Nan to Kyle O’Brien and Jessica Drover.
She is survived by her three sisters, Mary Rees, Betty Rushton, and Angela Keeping. She is predeceased by her parents Thomas Jackman and Mary (nee O’Brien), her five brothers, and six sisters.
There will be no visitation. Cremation has taken place, and a Memorial Mass will be held at St. Ambrose Church, 210 South Street, Cambridge on Friday, January 23rd, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. She will be laid to rest alongside her husband Harold at Mount View Cemetery in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, if you wish to honour Patricia’s memory, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Waterloo-Wellington or Cambridge Memorial Hospital Foundation.
“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always loved and deeply missed.”
|
Obituary for Eugene (Boy) Kelly, March 5, 2026, age 88.
|
|
KELLY , Eugene Patrick ‘Boy’ – September 16, 1937- March 5, 2026:
It is with great sadness that the family of Eugene Kelly announce his peaceful passing on Thursday March 5th, 2026, in Cambridge Ontario.
Our Uncle 'Boy' was much more than an uncle to us; he was an integral part of our family for as long as we can remember and was always there for us when we needed him. Boy lived an independent life full of family and friends. He will be remembered for his infectious laugh, crazy stories of his childhood, and the many characters he interacted with through the years. He seemed to have an amusing saying for every occasion and wasn't shy to let you hear them… 'here's your hat, what's your hurry' ... and the ever popular 'as long as you've got your health you’ve got everything!'
An incredibly hard worker, he grew up on Bell Island Newfoundland. He loved traveling when given the chance (Ireland, Africa, Israel, Australia) along with visiting his many friends and family back in Newfoundland. He always had a soft spot for dogs and those less fortunate. Boy was an extremely generous person who would give you the shirt off his back and hated to see anyone suffer.
He came to Cambridge (Galt) in the early 60's where he worked at Newlands Textiles and eventually the Galt Post Office.
Telling stories over a cup of tea (whether you wanted to hear them or not) and having a good laugh was something that made his day. He has left us with so many great memories. Boy could light up a dance floor, loved music and thought himself quite the singer back in the day! (Hello Celine Dion or Bette Midler!) In his later years, health issues got the better of him and dimmed his shining light, but he still remained curious on how everyone in the family was doing.
We would like to thank the staff and Sisters at Marian Residence along with the staff at Fairview Mennonite Home for their love and support of Eugene these last 6 years. Also, to the staff at CMH along with Dr Sehl and Dr Ponoran for their care and guidance during Boy's last few days, we will be forever grateful.
Boy leaves behind his many loving nieces and nephews - Gary Normore (Grace), Roxanne Rourke (Frank), Dane Normore (Kathy), Cherree Roberts (Gary) and Joseph Normore. Proud great uncle of Jennifer Appiah, Nicola Giralt (Andrew), Shayna Smith (Kevin), Aimee Normore, Heidi Normore (Matt), Erin Normore (Meredith), Scott Normore (Tiffany), Lindsay Roberts and Stacey Kearns (Sean). Great-great uncle to Mackenzie, Ronin, Jack, Audrey, Emerson, Dexter, Iris, Hazel and Harrison. Boy is survived by sibling Ignatius (Dorothy) of Bell Island, NF along many other nieces and nephews in Newfoundland with a special mention of Junior Hammond of Bay Bulls, NF, with whom he was extremely close.
Predeceased by his parents Eugene and Sarah (nee Quigley) and sisters Catherine Normore, Mary Hammond, Agnes Lahey, Virginia Delaney, Betty O'Neill, Julia McLean, Ursula and Alice along with brothers Jack, Jim, and Matthew.
Cremation has taken place. A funeral Mass at St. Patrick's (53 Wellington St, Cambridge, ON) and celebration of life will be announced at a later date. If desired, donations in Eugene's memory may be made to Fairview Seniors Community. Arrangements entrusted to Corbett Funeral Home, 95 Dundas Street N., Cambridge, Ontario, N1R 5N6, 519-740-0669.
It is with great sadness that the family of Eugene Kelly announce his peaceful passing on Thursday March 5th, 2026, in Cambridge Ontario.
Our Uncle 'Boy' was much more than an uncle to us; he was an integral part of our family for as long as we can remember and was always there for us when we needed him. Boy lived an independent life full of family and friends. He will be remembered for his infectious laugh, crazy stories of his childhood, and the many characters he interacted with through the years. He seemed to have an amusing saying for every occasion and wasn't shy to let you hear them… 'here's your hat, what's your hurry' ... and the ever popular 'as long as you've got your health you’ve got everything!'
An incredibly hard worker, he grew up on Bell Island Newfoundland. He loved traveling when given the chance (Ireland, Africa, Israel, Australia) along with visiting his many friends and family back in Newfoundland. He always had a soft spot for dogs and those less fortunate. Boy was an extremely generous person who would give you the shirt off his back and hated to see anyone suffer.
He came to Cambridge (Galt) in the early 60's where he worked at Newlands Textiles and eventually the Galt Post Office.
Telling stories over a cup of tea (whether you wanted to hear them or not) and having a good laugh was something that made his day. He has left us with so many great memories. Boy could light up a dance floor, loved music and thought himself quite the singer back in the day! (Hello Celine Dion or Bette Midler!) In his later years, health issues got the better of him and dimmed his shining light, but he still remained curious on how everyone in the family was doing.
We would like to thank the staff and Sisters at Marian Residence along with the staff at Fairview Mennonite Home for their love and support of Eugene these last 6 years. Also, to the staff at CMH along with Dr Sehl and Dr Ponoran for their care and guidance during Boy's last few days, we will be forever grateful.
Boy leaves behind his many loving nieces and nephews - Gary Normore (Grace), Roxanne Rourke (Frank), Dane Normore (Kathy), Cherree Roberts (Gary) and Joseph Normore. Proud great uncle of Jennifer Appiah, Nicola Giralt (Andrew), Shayna Smith (Kevin), Aimee Normore, Heidi Normore (Matt), Erin Normore (Meredith), Scott Normore (Tiffany), Lindsay Roberts and Stacey Kearns (Sean). Great-great uncle to Mackenzie, Ronin, Jack, Audrey, Emerson, Dexter, Iris, Hazel and Harrison. Boy is survived by sibling Ignatius (Dorothy) of Bell Island, NF along many other nieces and nephews in Newfoundland with a special mention of Junior Hammond of Bay Bulls, NF, with whom he was extremely close.
Predeceased by his parents Eugene and Sarah (nee Quigley) and sisters Catherine Normore, Mary Hammond, Agnes Lahey, Virginia Delaney, Betty O'Neill, Julia McLean, Ursula and Alice along with brothers Jack, Jim, and Matthew.
Cremation has taken place. A funeral Mass at St. Patrick's (53 Wellington St, Cambridge, ON) and celebration of life will be announced at a later date. If desired, donations in Eugene's memory may be made to Fairview Seniors Community. Arrangements entrusted to Corbett Funeral Home, 95 Dundas Street N., Cambridge, Ontario, N1R 5N6, 519-740-0669.
|
Obituary for William Furey, March 27, 2026, age 74.
|
|
March 29, 1952 to March 27, 2026:
With heavy hearts we announce William’s peaceful passing at the Ottawa General Hospital on Friday, March 27, 2026, just two days before his 74th birthday. William is now reunited with his beloved wife, Kathy (Giles) Furey, after many years apart.
He will be dearly missed by his loving children, Patricia, Jeff, and Mike Furey, and cherished by his grandchildren, Brittany Rooney, Tyler Wolstenholme, Courtney Zugaj, and Justin Foreman.
William is survived by his siblings, Roseann Brierley, Joan Zammit, Mary Lou Rubino, and Dean Furey. He was predeceased by his parents, Jacko and Dymphna Furey, and his brother, Gary Furey.
A graveside service will take place at Parklawn Cemetery, 750 Fountain Street, Cambridge on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life will follow at 4:00 p.m. at The Cambridge Newfoundland Club, 1500 Dunbar Rd, Cambridge.
As expressions of sympathy, donations to a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.
With heavy hearts we announce William’s peaceful passing at the Ottawa General Hospital on Friday, March 27, 2026, just two days before his 74th birthday. William is now reunited with his beloved wife, Kathy (Giles) Furey, after many years apart.
He will be dearly missed by his loving children, Patricia, Jeff, and Mike Furey, and cherished by his grandchildren, Brittany Rooney, Tyler Wolstenholme, Courtney Zugaj, and Justin Foreman.
William is survived by his siblings, Roseann Brierley, Joan Zammit, Mary Lou Rubino, and Dean Furey. He was predeceased by his parents, Jacko and Dymphna Furey, and his brother, Gary Furey.
A graveside service will take place at Parklawn Cemetery, 750 Fountain Street, Cambridge on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life will follow at 4:00 p.m. at The Cambridge Newfoundland Club, 1500 Dunbar Rd, Cambridge.
As expressions of sympathy, donations to a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.
|
Obituary for Helen (nee Kennedy) French, March 22, 2026, age 80.
|
|
July 12, 1945 to March 22, 2026:Passed peacefully away in the presence of loving family at the Agnes Pratt Home on March 22, 2026, at the age of 80 years.
Predeceased by husband Donald Bruce French, parents Rudolph and Genevieve (nee Dwyer), and siblings William, Nick, Elizabeth Louise and Peter Eugene.
Leaving to mourn siblings Sidney (Ros), Alice (Ken), and Leonie (James). Also leaving to mourn her only daughter, Alison Janet and her partner Andrew Wall, and their child, cherished granddaughter Kennedy Bruce French.
Born on Bell Island in 1945 ("when the Earth was young and green" in her words) Helen loved to tell stories of her childhood chasing neighborhood animals, swimming in the cold North Atlantic and causing trouble in school. Each story she told held a lesson - determination, independence, liberation to name a few.
She married Donald Bruce French in 1966 and together they enjoyed driving through the small towns and coves of Newfoundland. In 1991 she made headlines by having her first and only child at 45 - despite being told she could not have children. She took pride in defying people's expectations of her almost as much as she took pride in her daughter, Alison Janet.
Helen was born with a sharp wit, a distinct sense of humor and an indomitable spirit that persisted right to the end of her life despite her dementia. These same qualities live on (as she predicted) in her Granddaughter, Kennedy, every time she runs towards the rocky ocean shore or makes the adults around her laugh even in the most solemn and somber of times.
Cremation has taken place. There will be no service. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to a mental health organization of your choosing.
Predeceased by husband Donald Bruce French, parents Rudolph and Genevieve (nee Dwyer), and siblings William, Nick, Elizabeth Louise and Peter Eugene.
Leaving to mourn siblings Sidney (Ros), Alice (Ken), and Leonie (James). Also leaving to mourn her only daughter, Alison Janet and her partner Andrew Wall, and their child, cherished granddaughter Kennedy Bruce French.
Born on Bell Island in 1945 ("when the Earth was young and green" in her words) Helen loved to tell stories of her childhood chasing neighborhood animals, swimming in the cold North Atlantic and causing trouble in school. Each story she told held a lesson - determination, independence, liberation to name a few.
She married Donald Bruce French in 1966 and together they enjoyed driving through the small towns and coves of Newfoundland. In 1991 she made headlines by having her first and only child at 45 - despite being told she could not have children. She took pride in defying people's expectations of her almost as much as she took pride in her daughter, Alison Janet.
Helen was born with a sharp wit, a distinct sense of humor and an indomitable spirit that persisted right to the end of her life despite her dementia. These same qualities live on (as she predicted) in her Granddaughter, Kennedy, every time she runs towards the rocky ocean shore or makes the adults around her laugh even in the most solemn and somber of times.
Cremation has taken place. There will be no service. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to a mental health organization of your choosing.
|
Obituary for Loil Young, March 27, 2026, age 70.
|
|
January 31, 1956 to March 27, 2026:
With heavy hearts, we announce Loil’s passing on Friday, March 27, 2026, in the comfort of his own home at the age of 70 years. Loving father to Brian (Amanda) Young and Jeff Young. Proud Poppy to Cameron and Carson Young. Dear brother to Patsy O’Brien of Cambridge, ON, Gary Young (Georgina Flores) of Burlington, ON, Fred Young of Bell Island, NFLD, Ethel Young (Clayton Squires) of Portugal Cove–St. Phillips, NFLD, Diane (Stan) Blackmore of Paradise, NFLD, Debbie Young of Bell Island, NFLD, Susan Young of Cambridge, ON, Judy Young (Rob Krestianko) of Blenheim, ON, Scott Young (Tracey Pope) of Yellowknife, NWT, and Robert “Bobby” Young (Mary Kennedy) of Normans Cove, NFLD. Predeceased by his parents, John and Ethel (nee Hann); siblings Mike Young (1990) and Perry Young (2020); and brother-in-law Tom O’Brien. Loil will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by his extended family and many friends.
In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026 from 6-9 p.m. at Coutts Funeral Home, 96 St. Andrews Street, Cambridge. A memorial service will take place on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel, Loil will be laid to rest at Mount View Cemetery, Cambridge.
As expressions of sympathy, donations made in his memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be greatly appreciated by the family.
With heavy hearts, we announce Loil’s passing on Friday, March 27, 2026, in the comfort of his own home at the age of 70 years. Loving father to Brian (Amanda) Young and Jeff Young. Proud Poppy to Cameron and Carson Young. Dear brother to Patsy O’Brien of Cambridge, ON, Gary Young (Georgina Flores) of Burlington, ON, Fred Young of Bell Island, NFLD, Ethel Young (Clayton Squires) of Portugal Cove–St. Phillips, NFLD, Diane (Stan) Blackmore of Paradise, NFLD, Debbie Young of Bell Island, NFLD, Susan Young of Cambridge, ON, Judy Young (Rob Krestianko) of Blenheim, ON, Scott Young (Tracey Pope) of Yellowknife, NWT, and Robert “Bobby” Young (Mary Kennedy) of Normans Cove, NFLD. Predeceased by his parents, John and Ethel (nee Hann); siblings Mike Young (1990) and Perry Young (2020); and brother-in-law Tom O’Brien. Loil will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by his extended family and many friends.
In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026 from 6-9 p.m. at Coutts Funeral Home, 96 St. Andrews Street, Cambridge. A memorial service will take place on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel, Loil will be laid to rest at Mount View Cemetery, Cambridge.
As expressions of sympathy, donations made in his memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be greatly appreciated by the family.
|
Obituary for Shirley (nee Crane) Corbett, January 25, 2026, age 87.
|
|
June 24, 1938 to January 25, 2026:
Corbett, Shirley Frances (Crane), Daughter of Stephen Crane and Elizabeth (Fowler) Crane. The youngest of five children, Marjorie, Clarence, Doris, and Hubert, all of whom predeceased her. Shirley was born on Bell Island, Newfoundland, on June 24, 1938. She was predeceased by her husband, Richard (Dick) John Corbett. Shirley was the devoted mother of eight children: Ricky, Hubert (predeceased), Eddy (predeceased), Shawn (Leanne), Diane (Morgan), Derrick, Danny (Sandy), and Glenn. She was also a proud grandmother and great grandmother to several grandchildren and great grandchildren, all of whom she loved dearly.
Shirley devoted her life to raising her children, always placing their needs ahead of her own. Through many hardships and challenges, she remained dedicated in her commitment to her family, ensuring they were cared for and never went without. She balanced full-time work with the responsibilities of home and family, carrying her duties with quiet strength, determination, and grace. Holidays and special occasions, especially Christmas, were times when she gave far more than she had, bringing her family together through hard work, love, and devotion, all while greeting those around her with a warm, ever-present smile that never faded. Like all families, there were times of worry and heartbreak, but she never stopped doing the best she could for those she loved. Her loyalty, resilience, love of life, and unwavering devotion to her family defined who she was, and she carried it all without complaint.
She also devoted much of her time to helping others, with a special place in her heart for charitable work, particularly supporting Friendship House in Brantford, Ontario.
Shirley passed peacefully at Brantford General Hospital surrounded by loved ones on Sunday, January 25, 2026.
In keeping with Shirley’s generous spirit, those wishing to make a donation are encouraged to do so to support the homeless and those in need within their own community.
“Rest easy now, Mom, with the ocean close by. Your work is done, and the weight on your shoulders finally lifted. You carried more than your share, and you carried it well. We’ll mind what you taught us, look after each other, and keep your memory close. Until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of His hand.”
Corbett, Shirley Frances (Crane), Daughter of Stephen Crane and Elizabeth (Fowler) Crane. The youngest of five children, Marjorie, Clarence, Doris, and Hubert, all of whom predeceased her. Shirley was born on Bell Island, Newfoundland, on June 24, 1938. She was predeceased by her husband, Richard (Dick) John Corbett. Shirley was the devoted mother of eight children: Ricky, Hubert (predeceased), Eddy (predeceased), Shawn (Leanne), Diane (Morgan), Derrick, Danny (Sandy), and Glenn. She was also a proud grandmother and great grandmother to several grandchildren and great grandchildren, all of whom she loved dearly.
Shirley devoted her life to raising her children, always placing their needs ahead of her own. Through many hardships and challenges, she remained dedicated in her commitment to her family, ensuring they were cared for and never went without. She balanced full-time work with the responsibilities of home and family, carrying her duties with quiet strength, determination, and grace. Holidays and special occasions, especially Christmas, were times when she gave far more than she had, bringing her family together through hard work, love, and devotion, all while greeting those around her with a warm, ever-present smile that never faded. Like all families, there were times of worry and heartbreak, but she never stopped doing the best she could for those she loved. Her loyalty, resilience, love of life, and unwavering devotion to her family defined who she was, and she carried it all without complaint.
She also devoted much of her time to helping others, with a special place in her heart for charitable work, particularly supporting Friendship House in Brantford, Ontario.
Shirley passed peacefully at Brantford General Hospital surrounded by loved ones on Sunday, January 25, 2026.
In keeping with Shirley’s generous spirit, those wishing to make a donation are encouraged to do so to support the homeless and those in need within their own community.
“Rest easy now, Mom, with the ocean close by. Your work is done, and the weight on your shoulders finally lifted. You carried more than your share, and you carried it well. We’ll mind what you taught us, look after each other, and keep your memory close. Until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of His hand.”
|
Obituary for Frederick (Wally) Mercer, March 19, 2026, age 88.
|
|
June 29, 1937 - March 19, 2026
Wally was born on Bell Island, Newfoundland. He is predeceased by his parents Florence (Squires) and Llewelyn Mercer.
Wally was married August 7, 1962 to the love of his life Sandra Rees. Wally and Sandy were blessed with two children Randy (Betty) and Sherry (Fred). Wally had 8 siblings, 5 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren.
Wally had many passions starting with The CLB, Toronto Maple Leafs, horse racing and of course he cherished his family and enjoyed every moment with them.
The family wishes to thank the Cambridge Memorial Hospital staff. We truly appreciated the support, compassion and love from everyone. Thank you to all of our family and the many friends who were there during Wally’s struggle over the last few years. Wally passed peacefully surrounded by family.
A celebration of life will be held at Saint James Anglican Church in Hespeler on June 29. 2026. We Love you and will always miss you Skipper.
Wally was born on Bell Island, Newfoundland. He is predeceased by his parents Florence (Squires) and Llewelyn Mercer.
Wally was married August 7, 1962 to the love of his life Sandra Rees. Wally and Sandy were blessed with two children Randy (Betty) and Sherry (Fred). Wally had 8 siblings, 5 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren.
Wally had many passions starting with The CLB, Toronto Maple Leafs, horse racing and of course he cherished his family and enjoyed every moment with them.
The family wishes to thank the Cambridge Memorial Hospital staff. We truly appreciated the support, compassion and love from everyone. Thank you to all of our family and the many friends who were there during Wally’s struggle over the last few years. Wally passed peacefully surrounded by family.
A celebration of life will be held at Saint James Anglican Church in Hespeler on June 29. 2026. We Love you and will always miss you Skipper.
|
Obituary for Samuel Rose, March 17, 2026, age 78. |
|
April 6, 1947 to March 17, 2026:
With broken hearts and fond memories, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Samuel William Rose, who passed peacefully away on March 17th, 2026, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer.
Predeceased by his parents, Samuel and Lillian (George), and his siblings Harold, George, Clarence, Eric, and Marjorie. Leaving to mourn with a lifetime of beautiful memories, his sons Sam (Jill) and Brad (Jasmine). The lights of his life, his precious grandchildren, Amy, Samuel, Brianna, and Addison. Brother Ambrose (Connie), sisters Evelyn Mooring (Ray) and Millie Flight (Wayne), and sisters-in-law Myrtle and Marguerite. Along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and a huge circle of friends who will miss him deeply. And of course, his three buddies, Lexie, Lukey, and Leia, who were great companions for Sammy over the last few years.
Sammy was a talented musician who graced many stages all over the world, bringing joy to everyone in his audience. He has performed with many famous musicians over the years and shared his talents with many young musicians to help carry on the tradition. In 2013, Sammy was inducted into the NL Music Hall of Fame. From accordion to guitar, he was a man of many talents who was always willing to get up and play a tune or two at any special event. It is fitting that Sammy passed on St. Paddy’s Day, we know there was a party that night when Sammy joined the many great musicians who have passed before him.
Sammy was also a man of great faith and will be deeply missed by his Church Family of St. Cyprian & St. Mary’s Anglican Parish. Here, Sammy was a dedicated parishioner and volunteer. In his younger years, Sammy was also a proud member of the CLB Old Comrades’ Drum and Bugle Band.
We would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support during this difficult time.
We would like to send a special thank you to Kayla Dobbin and Sheryl Somerton for their assistance over these last couple of weeks making Sammy as comfortable as possible at home. We would also like to thank all of the staff at Dr. Walter Templeman Hospital, especially Lisa Gear, Ashley Fitzgerald, and Judy Newman, for their kindness and compassion during this time. Finally, we would like to thank Sammy’s close friend, George Jackman, for playing some accordion tunes for Sammy on what would be his final day. We are sure this brought him great peace in his final moments.
A Requiem Funeral will take place on Monday, March 23rd, at the Church of St. Cyprian and St. Mary at 2:00 pm. There will be a celebration of life afterwards at Bennett’s Hall. Interment will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Anglican Church of St. Cyprian and St. Mary on Bell Island, NL.
“Fight the Good Fight!”
With broken hearts and fond memories, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Samuel William Rose, who passed peacefully away on March 17th, 2026, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer.
Predeceased by his parents, Samuel and Lillian (George), and his siblings Harold, George, Clarence, Eric, and Marjorie. Leaving to mourn with a lifetime of beautiful memories, his sons Sam (Jill) and Brad (Jasmine). The lights of his life, his precious grandchildren, Amy, Samuel, Brianna, and Addison. Brother Ambrose (Connie), sisters Evelyn Mooring (Ray) and Millie Flight (Wayne), and sisters-in-law Myrtle and Marguerite. Along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and a huge circle of friends who will miss him deeply. And of course, his three buddies, Lexie, Lukey, and Leia, who were great companions for Sammy over the last few years.
Sammy was a talented musician who graced many stages all over the world, bringing joy to everyone in his audience. He has performed with many famous musicians over the years and shared his talents with many young musicians to help carry on the tradition. In 2013, Sammy was inducted into the NL Music Hall of Fame. From accordion to guitar, he was a man of many talents who was always willing to get up and play a tune or two at any special event. It is fitting that Sammy passed on St. Paddy’s Day, we know there was a party that night when Sammy joined the many great musicians who have passed before him.
Sammy was also a man of great faith and will be deeply missed by his Church Family of St. Cyprian & St. Mary’s Anglican Parish. Here, Sammy was a dedicated parishioner and volunteer. In his younger years, Sammy was also a proud member of the CLB Old Comrades’ Drum and Bugle Band.
We would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support during this difficult time.
We would like to send a special thank you to Kayla Dobbin and Sheryl Somerton for their assistance over these last couple of weeks making Sammy as comfortable as possible at home. We would also like to thank all of the staff at Dr. Walter Templeman Hospital, especially Lisa Gear, Ashley Fitzgerald, and Judy Newman, for their kindness and compassion during this time. Finally, we would like to thank Sammy’s close friend, George Jackman, for playing some accordion tunes for Sammy on what would be his final day. We are sure this brought him great peace in his final moments.
A Requiem Funeral will take place on Monday, March 23rd, at the Church of St. Cyprian and St. Mary at 2:00 pm. There will be a celebration of life afterwards at Bennett’s Hall. Interment will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Anglican Church of St. Cyprian and St. Mary on Bell Island, NL.
“Fight the Good Fight!”
|
Obituary for David Bennett, March 17, 2026, age 80.
|
|
January 5, 1946 to March 17, 2026:
Passed peacefully away in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving family, on March 17th, 2026.Leaving to mourn; wife Gloria, son David (Amber), daughter Kim, daughter Nicole (Paul), and six grandchildren; Kalista, Miranda, Parker, Nadia, Mason and Ozwin. Brothers, Frank (Mary) and Walt (Pauline), sister Nora (Charles). Sister-in-law Fredie, brother-in-law Bill (Evelyn). And a long list of nieces and nephews, special friends, neighbours and other loved ones.
David grew up on Bell Island where he met the love of his life Gloria, they were together for 60 years. David and Gloria loved to dance and when they did, people stopped to watch. Their love for one another was immense and anyone in their presence could feel it. They were often seen holding hands and sharing kisses. A love like theirs is one that others strive to achieve and one that time could never erase.
He became a fire fighter in 1965 at the age of 19. David wasn’t just a hero to his family, he was also a hero to perfect strangers. He retired as a Captain of the St. John’s Regional fire department in 1991.
He was a very special Poppy to all his grandchildren. He shared a backyard with his special granddaughter Kalista “Poppy’s Girl”, and he played a very big role in raising her. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for her, from playing Barbies, rides to school, rides to dance classes and giving her all the cuddles and hugs she needed. She was poppy’s shadow and wherever he was, she was never far behind. Their special bond will never be broken.
He was a remarkable role model for his two grandsons, Parker and Mason. They had countless sleepovers at Nanny and Poppy’s house, he always asked Nanny Gloria if the boys were coming over. Through the years it switched from them being babysat to them lending a helping hand—mowing the lawn in the summer and clearing snow in the winter—while Poppy looked on with pride.
Miranda, Nadia and Ozwin, his grandchildren that live in BC may have lived further away but they were no further in his heart, he was proud of each and every one of their accomplishments. He looked forward to seeing them on FaceTime watching them make breakfast, especially on the weekends and he would hold off on his afternoon nap waiting for their call.
Dave loved spending time with his family and they created many memories together. Whether it be a barbeque on the patio or a family vacation in Walt Disney World they were always just happy spending time together. He was very proud of his family. They were everything to him and he will always be everything to them.
The Bennett Family would like to thank the staff at the HSC Emerg, 4SB, Community Health and the Palliative Care Team. Everyone pulled together to make it possible for him to go home for his final days, that is something he wanted, and his family will be forever grateful that his final wish was fulfilled.
Resting at Barrett’s Funeral Home 73 Commonwealth Avenue, Mount Pearl. Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 22nd from 3:00-5:00pm and 7:00-9:00pm. Funeral Service will take place at Barrett’s Mount Pearl Chapel on Monday, March 23rd at 11:00am.
Flowers gratefully accepted or donations in his memory can be made to Diabetes Canada or Canadian Cancer Society.
Passed peacefully away in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving family, on March 17th, 2026.Leaving to mourn; wife Gloria, son David (Amber), daughter Kim, daughter Nicole (Paul), and six grandchildren; Kalista, Miranda, Parker, Nadia, Mason and Ozwin. Brothers, Frank (Mary) and Walt (Pauline), sister Nora (Charles). Sister-in-law Fredie, brother-in-law Bill (Evelyn). And a long list of nieces and nephews, special friends, neighbours and other loved ones.
David grew up on Bell Island where he met the love of his life Gloria, they were together for 60 years. David and Gloria loved to dance and when they did, people stopped to watch. Their love for one another was immense and anyone in their presence could feel it. They were often seen holding hands and sharing kisses. A love like theirs is one that others strive to achieve and one that time could never erase.
He became a fire fighter in 1965 at the age of 19. David wasn’t just a hero to his family, he was also a hero to perfect strangers. He retired as a Captain of the St. John’s Regional fire department in 1991.
He was a very special Poppy to all his grandchildren. He shared a backyard with his special granddaughter Kalista “Poppy’s Girl”, and he played a very big role in raising her. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for her, from playing Barbies, rides to school, rides to dance classes and giving her all the cuddles and hugs she needed. She was poppy’s shadow and wherever he was, she was never far behind. Their special bond will never be broken.
He was a remarkable role model for his two grandsons, Parker and Mason. They had countless sleepovers at Nanny and Poppy’s house, he always asked Nanny Gloria if the boys were coming over. Through the years it switched from them being babysat to them lending a helping hand—mowing the lawn in the summer and clearing snow in the winter—while Poppy looked on with pride.
Miranda, Nadia and Ozwin, his grandchildren that live in BC may have lived further away but they were no further in his heart, he was proud of each and every one of their accomplishments. He looked forward to seeing them on FaceTime watching them make breakfast, especially on the weekends and he would hold off on his afternoon nap waiting for their call.
Dave loved spending time with his family and they created many memories together. Whether it be a barbeque on the patio or a family vacation in Walt Disney World they were always just happy spending time together. He was very proud of his family. They were everything to him and he will always be everything to them.
The Bennett Family would like to thank the staff at the HSC Emerg, 4SB, Community Health and the Palliative Care Team. Everyone pulled together to make it possible for him to go home for his final days, that is something he wanted, and his family will be forever grateful that his final wish was fulfilled.
Resting at Barrett’s Funeral Home 73 Commonwealth Avenue, Mount Pearl. Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 22nd from 3:00-5:00pm and 7:00-9:00pm. Funeral Service will take place at Barrett’s Mount Pearl Chapel on Monday, March 23rd at 11:00am.
Flowers gratefully accepted or donations in his memory can be made to Diabetes Canada or Canadian Cancer Society.
|
Today in the History of Bell Island: St. Patrick's Night concerts were inaugurated in St. Joseph's Hall on March 17, 1913 with 300 people present. A one-act play, "The Wearin' O' the Green," was staged. Over the years, the day was celebrated with concerts, dances and, in the 1950s and 60s, a cavalcade through the streets of cars decorated with balloons, ribbons and Irish symbols. For Roman Catholics, the day was a school holiday and a Holy Day of Obligation that would start with Mass, where most people would wear something green, such as a green tie, ribbons, or a bunch of shamrocks. The photo below left, courtesy of Tom Clarke, was taken in 1965 in front of Power's Supermarket, West Mines. The photo below right is of William Kent Senior's car c.1961 or 62, courtesy of his daughter, Marina Kent Coxe. Read more memories of St. Patrick's Day on Bell Island by clicking the button on the right>>>
|
|
|
|
|
Obituary for Lisa (nee Joy) Carroll, March 4, 2026, age 49.
|
|
May 30, 1976 to March 4, 2026:
It is with deep sadness and immeasurable love that I share the passing of my beloved wife, Lisa Marie Carroll, age 49, on March 4th in Fergus, Ontario. Lisa was an extraordinary mother, a devoted partner, and my very best friend for the past 34 years. She was the heart of our family—our matriarch, our grounding force—and I feel profoundly blessed to have lived many lives within one lifetime with her.
Lisa is survived by her husband, Darrell Carroll, and our cherished children, Kalei and Landon. She will also be deeply missed by her sisters Sharon (Terry) and Lesley (JC); her brothers Patrick (Debbie) and Darrin (Lynn); her sister‑in‑law Jacqueline (Ryan), father-in-law Sylvester (Daphne deceased); and her nieces and nephews Leanne, Brooklynn, John, Colton, John, and Noah.
Born on May 30, 1976, in Bell Island, Newfoundland, to Patrick and Madeline Joy, Lisa grew into a woman defined by compassion, intelligence, and quiet strength. Blessed with a razor-sharp mind and an even sharper wit, Lisa was the master of the one liner, a line so sharp, and so perfectly timed, that it would leave us laughing hours after the conversation ended.
Lisa graduated from St. Michael’s High School in 1994, later earning degrees in Business Administration from Memorial University and Computer Science from Laurentian University. For the past eight years, she brought dedication, insight, and kindness to her role as a Financial Analyst with the Region of Peel, where she was appreciated not only for her work but for the warmth she shared with colleagues.
Lisa was loved and cherished by many. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support as we honor her life and the legacy she leaves through our beautiful children, Kalei and Landon.
In keeping with her wishes, there will be no formal service, and our family will gather privately. In lieu of flowers, we welcome contributions in Lisa’s memory to the Canadian Cancer Society.
With love and gratitude, Darrell
It is with deep sadness and immeasurable love that I share the passing of my beloved wife, Lisa Marie Carroll, age 49, on March 4th in Fergus, Ontario. Lisa was an extraordinary mother, a devoted partner, and my very best friend for the past 34 years. She was the heart of our family—our matriarch, our grounding force—and I feel profoundly blessed to have lived many lives within one lifetime with her.
Lisa is survived by her husband, Darrell Carroll, and our cherished children, Kalei and Landon. She will also be deeply missed by her sisters Sharon (Terry) and Lesley (JC); her brothers Patrick (Debbie) and Darrin (Lynn); her sister‑in‑law Jacqueline (Ryan), father-in-law Sylvester (Daphne deceased); and her nieces and nephews Leanne, Brooklynn, John, Colton, John, and Noah.
Born on May 30, 1976, in Bell Island, Newfoundland, to Patrick and Madeline Joy, Lisa grew into a woman defined by compassion, intelligence, and quiet strength. Blessed with a razor-sharp mind and an even sharper wit, Lisa was the master of the one liner, a line so sharp, and so perfectly timed, that it would leave us laughing hours after the conversation ended.
Lisa graduated from St. Michael’s High School in 1994, later earning degrees in Business Administration from Memorial University and Computer Science from Laurentian University. For the past eight years, she brought dedication, insight, and kindness to her role as a Financial Analyst with the Region of Peel, where she was appreciated not only for her work but for the warmth she shared with colleagues.
Lisa was loved and cherished by many. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support as we honor her life and the legacy she leaves through our beautiful children, Kalei and Landon.
In keeping with her wishes, there will be no formal service, and our family will gather privately. In lieu of flowers, we welcome contributions in Lisa’s memory to the Canadian Cancer Society.
With love and gratitude, Darrell
|
Obituary for Mary (nee King) Short, February 21, 2026, age 91.
|
|
July 5, 1934 to February 21, 2026:
It is with profound sadness that the family of Mary Short (nee King) announce her passing on February 21st, at the age of 91. Mom was born and raised in Kingston, Newfoundland. She and Dad and family later moved to Bell Island, and eventually settled in St. John’s, where Mom has resided for the past 59 years.
Predeceased by her husband of 53 years, Patrick Short, parents Bernard and Kathleen King, siblings Theresa McDonald (Ed), Mike King, and Mercedes Williams (Henry), sister-in-law Rosalie, brothers-in-law Stan, Sam, Will (Annie), Phonse (Maggie) and Phil (Minnie) Short.
Leaving to mourn her loss are her children: Kathy (Richard Mercer), Ed (Harriet), Bernie (Barb), Pat (Sharon), and Michelle (Clyde Snow); her grandchildren Andrew (Jennifer), Allison, Matthew, Jillian (Mike Colbert), Karla (Philip Brunel), Megan (Mark English), Ian (Rebecca Lawrence), Emily, Patrick (Kimmy Norman), Jenna (Steve Graves), Olivia Snow (Josh Burt), and Gavin Snow; and great grandchildren Andie, Austin, Jasper, Jacob, Sophie, Joshua, Isaac, Noah, Hanley, and Crew. Also leaving to mourn sister-in-law Mary King, special caregiver Joan Breen, nieces, nephews, and cousins of the King and Short families, special friends Lorna Baum, Betty Greeley, Bridget Haynes, Betty Halliday, Gerry Smith (deceased) and numerous friends at Kenny’s Pond Retirement Residence.
Mom loved life and was determined to live hers to the fullest. She was a generous host and she loved to entertain and to socialize. Mom always strived to look her best and she loved all things that sparkled, which included her jewellery, hair clips, and clothing. Mom lit up every room she entered with her beautiful smile and warm demeanour. She had a green thumb and was always tending to her garden and later to the many flowers and plants in her apartment. In her younger years she enjoyed travelling to Florida with family and friends.
Mom was the matriarch of our family. We are devastated by her loss, but also grateful for her long happy life and for the lessons and words of wisdom she taught us. Her words will ring in our ears for ever more. She was proud of her large family and loved to talk about her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Mom instilled in us the values of hard work, kindness, gratitude, respect, and determination. She will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her and to love her.
We would like to extend our gratitude to all the staff of Kenny’s Pond Retirement Residence, Dr. Singleton, and Dr. Crocker for the care and kindness they provided to Mom for the past 6 years.
Donations in Mom’s memory can be made to a charity of your choice.
Visitation will take place at Caul’s Funeral Home, 84 LeMarchant Road on Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 7:00-9:00 p.m. Funeral service will be held from Caul’s Chapel on Friday, February 27, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with interment to follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
It is with profound sadness that the family of Mary Short (nee King) announce her passing on February 21st, at the age of 91. Mom was born and raised in Kingston, Newfoundland. She and Dad and family later moved to Bell Island, and eventually settled in St. John’s, where Mom has resided for the past 59 years.
Predeceased by her husband of 53 years, Patrick Short, parents Bernard and Kathleen King, siblings Theresa McDonald (Ed), Mike King, and Mercedes Williams (Henry), sister-in-law Rosalie, brothers-in-law Stan, Sam, Will (Annie), Phonse (Maggie) and Phil (Minnie) Short.
Leaving to mourn her loss are her children: Kathy (Richard Mercer), Ed (Harriet), Bernie (Barb), Pat (Sharon), and Michelle (Clyde Snow); her grandchildren Andrew (Jennifer), Allison, Matthew, Jillian (Mike Colbert), Karla (Philip Brunel), Megan (Mark English), Ian (Rebecca Lawrence), Emily, Patrick (Kimmy Norman), Jenna (Steve Graves), Olivia Snow (Josh Burt), and Gavin Snow; and great grandchildren Andie, Austin, Jasper, Jacob, Sophie, Joshua, Isaac, Noah, Hanley, and Crew. Also leaving to mourn sister-in-law Mary King, special caregiver Joan Breen, nieces, nephews, and cousins of the King and Short families, special friends Lorna Baum, Betty Greeley, Bridget Haynes, Betty Halliday, Gerry Smith (deceased) and numerous friends at Kenny’s Pond Retirement Residence.
Mom loved life and was determined to live hers to the fullest. She was a generous host and she loved to entertain and to socialize. Mom always strived to look her best and she loved all things that sparkled, which included her jewellery, hair clips, and clothing. Mom lit up every room she entered with her beautiful smile and warm demeanour. She had a green thumb and was always tending to her garden and later to the many flowers and plants in her apartment. In her younger years she enjoyed travelling to Florida with family and friends.
Mom was the matriarch of our family. We are devastated by her loss, but also grateful for her long happy life and for the lessons and words of wisdom she taught us. Her words will ring in our ears for ever more. She was proud of her large family and loved to talk about her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Mom instilled in us the values of hard work, kindness, gratitude, respect, and determination. She will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her and to love her.
We would like to extend our gratitude to all the staff of Kenny’s Pond Retirement Residence, Dr. Singleton, and Dr. Crocker for the care and kindness they provided to Mom for the past 6 years.
Donations in Mom’s memory can be made to a charity of your choice.
Visitation will take place at Caul’s Funeral Home, 84 LeMarchant Road on Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 7:00-9:00 p.m. Funeral service will be held from Caul’s Chapel on Friday, February 27, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with interment to follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
The following story was posted by Fox Galway, Feb. 22, 2026. See the photo of the team below.
Remembering the 1966/67 High School Series, this is a little story I put together in this snowstorm tonight. I used the David and Goliath for the fun of it. I know some will remember it differently. This is my short version of the events of one of the great hockey stories in High School Hockey here on Bell Island. By the way, it still is one of my favourite High School Series of all time. Hope you enjoy my tribute to a great Series, Fox.
The 1966–67 Bell Island High School Hockey Championship. St. Boniface High School vs. St. Kevin’s Boys School
The 1966–67 high school hockey championship on Bell Island remains one of the most memorable and talked-about sporting events in the community’s history. It was more than a championship series—it was a clash of tradition, pride, and belief between two fierce rivals: St. Boniface High School and St. Kevin’s Boys School.
For more than twenty years, St. Kevin’s had reigned as champions. Their blue and white jerseys symbolized dominance and excellence. Entering the series, they were the clear favourites—strong, experienced, and undefeated. St. Boniface, dressed in deep burgundy and gold, carried the hopes of underdogs everywhere. The narrative practically wrote itself: Goliath vs. David.
By the time the series reached a decisive Game 7, the entire island was alive with anticipation. Students rushed home after school, hurried through supper, and pleaded for a quarter and permission to attend the game. That evening, the rink became the heartbeat of the community. Fans poured into the arena long before puck drop, eager to secure the best view. Along the small set of bleachers near the players’ benches stood the familiar gathering of fathers and lifelong fans—self-proclaimed strategists and passionate supporters—offering advice and encouragement with equal enthusiasm. Inside the dressing rooms, however, the atmosphere was the opposite. Quiet. Focused. Determined. Every player and coach mentally rehearsed the game plan for what they knew would be the most important game of their young careers.
⸻
The Heroes Take the Ice
As the teams stepped onto the ice, the roar from the crowd echoed across the Tickle. The schools’ identities gave way to the players who would define the night. For St. Kevin’s, Billy Kelly embodied the role of Goliath—an exceptional talent known for his speed, endurance, and powerful shot. He was a player capable of dominating a game almost single-handedly. For St. Boniface, the role of David belonged to a young goaltender who had already stunned the hockey community throughout the series—Wayne Clarke. Though inexperienced at this level, Clarke had carried his team to Game 7 with performances that were quickly becoming legendary.
⸻
A Game for the Ages
From the opening faceoff, the tone was set. Kelly controlled the puck early, skating with remarkable confidence and weaving through defenders before unleashing a powerful shot. Clarke answered immediately, snatching the puck from the air as if catching a fly ball—an early sign of the night to come. As the first period progressed, fans realized something extraordinary: Kelly rarely left the ice. Known for playing extended minutes, he appeared determined to lead his team by sheer will. At the other end, Clarke matched that determination, fully aware he would likely play every minute of the game. The second period became a battle of endurance and skill. Kelly attacked relentlessly, firing shot after shot from his favored route along the left boards. Clarke responded with acrobatic saves that defied belief—stretching, diving, and contorting his body to keep the puck out of the net. Even the opposing fans began to admire the remarkable performance unfolding before them. When the period ended, the arena buzzed like a beehive. The score remained tight, and everyone sensed they were witnessing something special.
⸻
The Final Period
The third period began with the teams locked in a 1–1 tie. Every movement of the puck was followed by thousands of anxious eyes. Every shot drew gasps. Every save brought thunderous applause. St. Kevin’s pressed hard, throwing everything they had toward the St. Boniface net. Clarke continued his goal-tending clinic, frustrating attackers and inspiring teammates. The clock ticked down, tension building with every passing second. With less than two minutes remaining, St. Boniface coach Kevin McCarthy called a timeout. A simple but crucial plan was set: clear the puck from the defensive zone and relieve the pressure. From the face-off, the puck found its way to Billy Hutchings in the corner. He looked up and spotted Wayne Warford crossing center ice. Hutchings sent the puck forward, and Warford chipped it ahead with a long clearing attempt.
What happened next remains part of Bell Island folklore. The puck bounced and rolled unpredictably across the ice, slipped past the St. Kevin’s goaltender, and crossed the goal line. St. Boniface had scored.
⸻
Jubilation and Legacy
The arena erupted. Burgundy and gold supporters celebrated through tears of joy, while the stunned blue and white faithful struggled to comprehend what had just happened. The dynasty had fallen. The underdogs had triumphed. Coach Kevin McCarthy had instilled belief in a team that had never before faced such a moment. Wayne Clarke, ever humble, would later credit luck—but those who witnessed the game knew it was far more than that. It was courage, determination, and extraordinary skill.
Decades later, the story of that Game 7 still lives on among those who were there. It remains one of Bell Island’s greatest sporting memories—a night when David defeated Goliath and a community witnessed the power of belief.
Remembering the 1966/67 High School Series, this is a little story I put together in this snowstorm tonight. I used the David and Goliath for the fun of it. I know some will remember it differently. This is my short version of the events of one of the great hockey stories in High School Hockey here on Bell Island. By the way, it still is one of my favourite High School Series of all time. Hope you enjoy my tribute to a great Series, Fox.
The 1966–67 Bell Island High School Hockey Championship. St. Boniface High School vs. St. Kevin’s Boys School
The 1966–67 high school hockey championship on Bell Island remains one of the most memorable and talked-about sporting events in the community’s history. It was more than a championship series—it was a clash of tradition, pride, and belief between two fierce rivals: St. Boniface High School and St. Kevin’s Boys School.
For more than twenty years, St. Kevin’s had reigned as champions. Their blue and white jerseys symbolized dominance and excellence. Entering the series, they were the clear favourites—strong, experienced, and undefeated. St. Boniface, dressed in deep burgundy and gold, carried the hopes of underdogs everywhere. The narrative practically wrote itself: Goliath vs. David.
By the time the series reached a decisive Game 7, the entire island was alive with anticipation. Students rushed home after school, hurried through supper, and pleaded for a quarter and permission to attend the game. That evening, the rink became the heartbeat of the community. Fans poured into the arena long before puck drop, eager to secure the best view. Along the small set of bleachers near the players’ benches stood the familiar gathering of fathers and lifelong fans—self-proclaimed strategists and passionate supporters—offering advice and encouragement with equal enthusiasm. Inside the dressing rooms, however, the atmosphere was the opposite. Quiet. Focused. Determined. Every player and coach mentally rehearsed the game plan for what they knew would be the most important game of their young careers.
⸻
The Heroes Take the Ice
As the teams stepped onto the ice, the roar from the crowd echoed across the Tickle. The schools’ identities gave way to the players who would define the night. For St. Kevin’s, Billy Kelly embodied the role of Goliath—an exceptional talent known for his speed, endurance, and powerful shot. He was a player capable of dominating a game almost single-handedly. For St. Boniface, the role of David belonged to a young goaltender who had already stunned the hockey community throughout the series—Wayne Clarke. Though inexperienced at this level, Clarke had carried his team to Game 7 with performances that were quickly becoming legendary.
⸻
A Game for the Ages
From the opening faceoff, the tone was set. Kelly controlled the puck early, skating with remarkable confidence and weaving through defenders before unleashing a powerful shot. Clarke answered immediately, snatching the puck from the air as if catching a fly ball—an early sign of the night to come. As the first period progressed, fans realized something extraordinary: Kelly rarely left the ice. Known for playing extended minutes, he appeared determined to lead his team by sheer will. At the other end, Clarke matched that determination, fully aware he would likely play every minute of the game. The second period became a battle of endurance and skill. Kelly attacked relentlessly, firing shot after shot from his favored route along the left boards. Clarke responded with acrobatic saves that defied belief—stretching, diving, and contorting his body to keep the puck out of the net. Even the opposing fans began to admire the remarkable performance unfolding before them. When the period ended, the arena buzzed like a beehive. The score remained tight, and everyone sensed they were witnessing something special.
⸻
The Final Period
The third period began with the teams locked in a 1–1 tie. Every movement of the puck was followed by thousands of anxious eyes. Every shot drew gasps. Every save brought thunderous applause. St. Kevin’s pressed hard, throwing everything they had toward the St. Boniface net. Clarke continued his goal-tending clinic, frustrating attackers and inspiring teammates. The clock ticked down, tension building with every passing second. With less than two minutes remaining, St. Boniface coach Kevin McCarthy called a timeout. A simple but crucial plan was set: clear the puck from the defensive zone and relieve the pressure. From the face-off, the puck found its way to Billy Hutchings in the corner. He looked up and spotted Wayne Warford crossing center ice. Hutchings sent the puck forward, and Warford chipped it ahead with a long clearing attempt.
What happened next remains part of Bell Island folklore. The puck bounced and rolled unpredictably across the ice, slipped past the St. Kevin’s goaltender, and crossed the goal line. St. Boniface had scored.
⸻
Jubilation and Legacy
The arena erupted. Burgundy and gold supporters celebrated through tears of joy, while the stunned blue and white faithful struggled to comprehend what had just happened. The dynasty had fallen. The underdogs had triumphed. Coach Kevin McCarthy had instilled belief in a team that had never before faced such a moment. Wayne Clarke, ever humble, would later credit luck—but those who witnessed the game knew it was far more than that. It was courage, determination, and extraordinary skill.
Decades later, the story of that Game 7 still lives on among those who were there. It remains one of Bell Island’s greatest sporting memories—a night when David defeated Goliath and a community witnessed the power of belief.
|
Posted by Fox Galway, Feb. 22, 2026:
The 1966-67 St. Boniface High School Championship Team coached by Kevin McCarthy. In praise of McCarthy's coaching, Fox Galway wrote: "One of the most celebrated accomplishments of his career came with St. Boniface High School when McCarthy led his team into a dramatic Game Seven against long-time rivals St. Kevin's Boys School. For 20-plus consecutive years, St. Kevin's had dominated the rivalry. Under McCarthy's leadership, preparation and belief in his players, the St. Boniface squad achieved what many thought impossible - capturing the High School Championship and ending a two-decade reign. It was a victory built on teamwork, preparation, and the unwavering trust his players had in their coach." |
|
|
Obituary for Marilyn Tulk, February 9, 2026, age 77.
|
|
March 29, 1948 to February 9, 2026:
Passed peacefully at her home in St. John’s, NL, Marilyn Julia Tulk, age 77 years.
Born on Bell Island, Marilyn spent the majority of her life in St. John’s and Ottawa. She was a devoted sister, aunt, and friend whose kindness and generosity touched many lives.
She was predeceased by her parents, Augustus and Madeline Tulk, and her brothers Blair (Josephine) Tulk and Barry Tulk.
Left to mourn, with many fond and loving memories, are her brother Brian (Annie) Tulk; her sisters Sheila (Gordon) Power, Terri Myers, and her cherished younger sister Lorraine Tulk, to whom she dedicated her life and cared for as a daughter. She is also lovingly remembered by her uncle Gerald Tulk, numerous nieces and nephews and extended family.
Marilyn was blessed with a large circle of friends and acquaintances who valued her infectious laugh, kindness, generosity, and enduring friendship. Her devotion to family and steadfast faith will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Cremation has already taken place. At Marilyn’s request, there is no visitation. Funeral service will take place at Caul’s Funeral Home, 84 LeMarchant Road, St. John’s on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 1pm. Inurnment (Holy Sepulchre Cemetery) and celebration of life to take place at a later date.
Flowers gratefully accepted, or donations can be made in Marilyn’s memory to a charity of one’s choice.
Passed peacefully at her home in St. John’s, NL, Marilyn Julia Tulk, age 77 years.
Born on Bell Island, Marilyn spent the majority of her life in St. John’s and Ottawa. She was a devoted sister, aunt, and friend whose kindness and generosity touched many lives.
She was predeceased by her parents, Augustus and Madeline Tulk, and her brothers Blair (Josephine) Tulk and Barry Tulk.
Left to mourn, with many fond and loving memories, are her brother Brian (Annie) Tulk; her sisters Sheila (Gordon) Power, Terri Myers, and her cherished younger sister Lorraine Tulk, to whom she dedicated her life and cared for as a daughter. She is also lovingly remembered by her uncle Gerald Tulk, numerous nieces and nephews and extended family.
Marilyn was blessed with a large circle of friends and acquaintances who valued her infectious laugh, kindness, generosity, and enduring friendship. Her devotion to family and steadfast faith will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Cremation has already taken place. At Marilyn’s request, there is no visitation. Funeral service will take place at Caul’s Funeral Home, 84 LeMarchant Road, St. John’s on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 1pm. Inurnment (Holy Sepulchre Cemetery) and celebration of life to take place at a later date.
Flowers gratefully accepted, or donations can be made in Marilyn’s memory to a charity of one’s choice.
|
Obituary for James Noseworthy, February 9, 2026, age 68.
|
|
February 18, 1957 to February 9, 2026:
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved brother, James “Jim” Noseworthy of Bell Island, at the age of 68.
He was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Gloria Noseworthy.
Leaving to mourn are his sister, Gloria; his brother, Ross (Hollie); his nephew, Adam (Stephanie); his nieces, Melissa (Ava) and Catherine (Joel); as well as a wide circle of family and friends.
Jim will also be deeply missed by his best friends, Cathy Maidment (along with her loyal companions, Sheamus and Ruffus), and Karen Winsor and her children, Grant and Haley, who were an important part of Jim’s life.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Carole Maidment and a wonderful group of friends in Nova Scotia who supported Jim during this very difficult time. A special thank you as well to the ambulance team and the staff of the Queen Elizabeth II Hospital in Halifax for their care and compassion.
A very special thank you is also extended to Jim’s close friends who stood by him over the years. We know you held a very special place in his life, and he in yours.
Resting at Pendergast's Funeral Home, Bell Island, on Monday, February 16, 2026 from 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. & 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Funeral Mass to take place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at St. Cyprian's St. Mary's Anglican Church at 2 p.m. with interment to follow at St. Cyprian's Anglican Cemetery.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved brother, James “Jim” Noseworthy of Bell Island, at the age of 68.
He was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Gloria Noseworthy.
Leaving to mourn are his sister, Gloria; his brother, Ross (Hollie); his nephew, Adam (Stephanie); his nieces, Melissa (Ava) and Catherine (Joel); as well as a wide circle of family and friends.
Jim will also be deeply missed by his best friends, Cathy Maidment (along with her loyal companions, Sheamus and Ruffus), and Karen Winsor and her children, Grant and Haley, who were an important part of Jim’s life.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Carole Maidment and a wonderful group of friends in Nova Scotia who supported Jim during this very difficult time. A special thank you as well to the ambulance team and the staff of the Queen Elizabeth II Hospital in Halifax for their care and compassion.
A very special thank you is also extended to Jim’s close friends who stood by him over the years. We know you held a very special place in his life, and he in yours.
Resting at Pendergast's Funeral Home, Bell Island, on Monday, February 16, 2026 from 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. & 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Funeral Mass to take place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at St. Cyprian's St. Mary's Anglican Church at 2 p.m. with interment to follow at St. Cyprian's Anglican Cemetery.
|
Happy Valentine's Day! As early as 100 years ago, Bell Islanders were celebrating Valentine's Day. Jean Lindsay, who was born in 1913, said that she and her friends made their own valentines from white paper doilies to send around to friends or give in school. There were none to buy in shops in those days. Read more about Valentine's celebrations on Bell Island on this website by clicking the button on the right>>>
|
|
|
Obituary for Valerie (nee Lahey) St-Pierre, February 1, 2026, age 68.
|
|
April 29, 1957 to February 1, 2026:
It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Valerie Madonna Theresa St-Pierre (née Lahey) of Hammond, Ontario, who passed away peacefully on February 1st 2026 at the age of 68, surrounded by her family.
Born on April 29th 1957 in Bell Island, Newfoundland, daughter of the late Bridget (née Somerton) and the late Michael Francis Lahey. Valerie was a dedicated wife, devoted mother, and loving grandmother who cherished time with her family above all else. She will be forever remembered by her family for her Specific phrase “I LOVE YOU”.
She leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband of 44 years, André St-Pierre. Beloved mother to Micheline St-Pierre, Jean-Francois St-Pierre (Lisanne Bélanger) and proud grandmother to her beloved grandchildren, Rileigh St-Pierre, Autumn Pratt, Mason Pratt. Dear sister to Lorraine (late Mac MacEachern), Daphne (Ernie Deveaux), Dale (Wayne Stroughair), Diane (Kenny Pendergast), Sharon Ann (late Tom Brazil) and Blair Michael Lahey (Barb).
Predeceased by her siblings Don (Anne), Brian (Peggy), Barry (Cynt), Regina, Margaret (late Hugh Golden) and Doreen (late Peter Johnson).
A Funeral Mass will be held on February 23th at 11am at St-Mathieu Roman Catholic Church in Hammond. If you cannot attend in-person, provide your email address to André ([email protected]), who can send you an invitation to watch on Zoom or YouTube.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dementia Society, a cause close to her heart.
It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Valerie Madonna Theresa St-Pierre (née Lahey) of Hammond, Ontario, who passed away peacefully on February 1st 2026 at the age of 68, surrounded by her family.
Born on April 29th 1957 in Bell Island, Newfoundland, daughter of the late Bridget (née Somerton) and the late Michael Francis Lahey. Valerie was a dedicated wife, devoted mother, and loving grandmother who cherished time with her family above all else. She will be forever remembered by her family for her Specific phrase “I LOVE YOU”.
She leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband of 44 years, André St-Pierre. Beloved mother to Micheline St-Pierre, Jean-Francois St-Pierre (Lisanne Bélanger) and proud grandmother to her beloved grandchildren, Rileigh St-Pierre, Autumn Pratt, Mason Pratt. Dear sister to Lorraine (late Mac MacEachern), Daphne (Ernie Deveaux), Dale (Wayne Stroughair), Diane (Kenny Pendergast), Sharon Ann (late Tom Brazil) and Blair Michael Lahey (Barb).
Predeceased by her siblings Don (Anne), Brian (Peggy), Barry (Cynt), Regina, Margaret (late Hugh Golden) and Doreen (late Peter Johnson).
A Funeral Mass will be held on February 23th at 11am at St-Mathieu Roman Catholic Church in Hammond. If you cannot attend in-person, provide your email address to André ([email protected]), who can send you an invitation to watch on Zoom or YouTube.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dementia Society, a cause close to her heart.
|
Posted Feb. 12, 2026:
On this typically miserable February day, with freezing drizzle mixed with snow, it tickled my funny bone and warmed my heart to find this wonderfully-worded piece of Bell Island News from 68 years ago in The Daily News of Feb. 12, 1958. It was a bonus to see the mention of McLean's Orchestra, a popular local band at that time. Enjoy! |
|
|
Obituary for Lorraine (nee Kavanagh) Kent, February 7, 2026, age 71.
|
|
May 20, 1954 to February 7, 2026:
Passed away peacefully on February 7th, 2026, age 71 years. Predeceased by her husband: Joe, parents: James and Margaret, sister: Linda, brothers: Martin, Patrick.
Left with a wealth of precious and loving memories, sons: Jim (Wendy), Gerald, precious grandson whom she adored: Michael, grandchildren: Zackary and Zayley, sisters: Sis, Evelyn (Walter), Sall, Peggy, brothers: Alex (Charlotte), Jimmy, Walter, brother-in-law: Kevin, and special fur friend and companion: Prince. Also, nieces, nephews, and a large circle of extended family and friends.
Visitation in Hickey’s Funeral Home, 570 Conception Bay Highway, Conception Bay South, on Wednesday, February 11th, 2026, from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. To send a message of condolence, please visit www.hickeysfuneralhome.com.
Passed away peacefully on February 7th, 2026, age 71 years. Predeceased by her husband: Joe, parents: James and Margaret, sister: Linda, brothers: Martin, Patrick.
Left with a wealth of precious and loving memories, sons: Jim (Wendy), Gerald, precious grandson whom she adored: Michael, grandchildren: Zackary and Zayley, sisters: Sis, Evelyn (Walter), Sall, Peggy, brothers: Alex (Charlotte), Jimmy, Walter, brother-in-law: Kevin, and special fur friend and companion: Prince. Also, nieces, nephews, and a large circle of extended family and friends.
Visitation in Hickey’s Funeral Home, 570 Conception Bay Highway, Conception Bay South, on Wednesday, February 11th, 2026, from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. To send a message of condolence, please visit www.hickeysfuneralhome.com.
|
Obituary for Madonna Dwyer, January 17, 2026, age 80.
|
|
With deep, deep sorrow the loved ones of Madonna Dwyer announce that, on January 17, 2026, we lost an angel who was, as so many say, easy to love, and who brought smiles to so many faces.
Our angel, Madonna, was born June 20, 1945, on Bell Island, Newfoundland to Frank and Mary Dwyer (nee Kent). One of six siblings, her childhood was cut short by the sudden death of her mother when Madonna was just twelve years old. After four years in an orphanage, she came to Montréal in 1961 to live with her beloved Aunt Dolly (Cecelia Dwyer Schurman Sparks) and became the treasured big sister to Elizabeth and Isabel Schurman, a relationship that would last a lifetime and beyond.
Madonna was a highly competent, conscientious and hardworking member of the Treasury Department of Bell Canada for over thirty years until her retirement in 1994. In later years, and right up until her untimely and unexpected death, she was the accounting department for the law firm Schurman, Grenier, Morneau and its predecessors, where she was loved and appreciated by all. A proud Newfie, she taught us what it was to live life with joy, kindness and unconditional love. May she be remembered for her affection to all, her laugh and her love of the Habs.
Madonna was predeceased by her beloved parents, her Aunt Dolly, her sister Margaret and brother-in-law Len; brother Vincent and sister-in-law Ursula; brother Frank; and nephews Joseph Francis Dwyer and Curt Dwyer. She was also predeceased by Isabel’s husband Bernard Grenier, with whom she shared a special bond. She is survived by Elizabeth Schurman ( Daniel Camus ), Julia Rose Camus, Isabel Schurman ( the late Bernard Grenier ) , Caroline Schurman-Grenier ( Aditya Jain ), Geneviève Grenier; brothers John Dwyer(Eileen) and Colin Kent ( Katie ); nieces and nephews, in particular Vincent Dwyer (Laura ); and Dominic White ( Stephanie ), Donna White ( Steve) and their children; and many cousins.
A celebration of her life will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 1 p.m. at the Mount Royal Funeral Complex, 1297 Ch. De la Forêt, Outremont. Madonna will be buried with her parents on Bell Island, Newfoundland at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation would be greatly appreciated. https://www.imakeanonlinedonation.org/fondationcanadiens/DON/
Our angel, Madonna, was born June 20, 1945, on Bell Island, Newfoundland to Frank and Mary Dwyer (nee Kent). One of six siblings, her childhood was cut short by the sudden death of her mother when Madonna was just twelve years old. After four years in an orphanage, she came to Montréal in 1961 to live with her beloved Aunt Dolly (Cecelia Dwyer Schurman Sparks) and became the treasured big sister to Elizabeth and Isabel Schurman, a relationship that would last a lifetime and beyond.
Madonna was a highly competent, conscientious and hardworking member of the Treasury Department of Bell Canada for over thirty years until her retirement in 1994. In later years, and right up until her untimely and unexpected death, she was the accounting department for the law firm Schurman, Grenier, Morneau and its predecessors, where she was loved and appreciated by all. A proud Newfie, she taught us what it was to live life with joy, kindness and unconditional love. May she be remembered for her affection to all, her laugh and her love of the Habs.
Madonna was predeceased by her beloved parents, her Aunt Dolly, her sister Margaret and brother-in-law Len; brother Vincent and sister-in-law Ursula; brother Frank; and nephews Joseph Francis Dwyer and Curt Dwyer. She was also predeceased by Isabel’s husband Bernard Grenier, with whom she shared a special bond. She is survived by Elizabeth Schurman ( Daniel Camus ), Julia Rose Camus, Isabel Schurman ( the late Bernard Grenier ) , Caroline Schurman-Grenier ( Aditya Jain ), Geneviève Grenier; brothers John Dwyer(Eileen) and Colin Kent ( Katie ); nieces and nephews, in particular Vincent Dwyer (Laura ); and Dominic White ( Stephanie ), Donna White ( Steve) and their children; and many cousins.
A celebration of her life will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 1 p.m. at the Mount Royal Funeral Complex, 1297 Ch. De la Forêt, Outremont. Madonna will be buried with her parents on Bell Island, Newfoundland at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation would be greatly appreciated. https://www.imakeanonlinedonation.org/fondationcanadiens/DON/
|
Did you ever wonder what life was like on Bell Island when mining was in its infancy and the Island was changing from a rural outport into an industrial hot spot? I have just finished adding a series of newspaper articles by I.C. Morris to this website that give a taste of those early years. On the right is an excerpt from his 1900 visit to Bell Island.
To read the articles on all his visits, click the button below: |
|
|
Obituary for Mary (Mollie, nee Eveleigh) Stone, January 26, 2026, age 78.
|
|
March 11, 1947 to January 26, 2026:
Stone, Mary (Mollie) – It is with a sad and heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mary (Mollie) Ann Stone (nee Eveleigh). Mollie passed away peacefully in her home with family by her side on Jan 26, 2026 at the age of 78. Predeceased by her parents Herbert and Mary Eveleigh, and her sister and brother-in-law Marie and William Kent.
Leaving behind with cherished memories are, her forever loved children Jennifer (Bernie), Karen, Sheldon (Lori), and Frank (Christine), her beloved grandchildren who were her heart, Samantha, Victoria, and Bryce, as well as her loving siblings, sister Lorraine (Edmond) and brother Malcom (Irene). She also left behind nieces and nephews who were touched by her kind and loving heart through their years, especially her niece Carol Ann (Bren) whom she had a very special relationship with.
The family would also like to express their thanks and appreciation to Dr. Roger Butler and Kate White, NP with their kind support and care provided to Mollie in her later years. Their continued care enabled Mollie to stay in the comfort of her home as her disease progressed and have the support that she needed to remain there until her end. They would also like to express their thanks to Elsie Drover, her care support worker. Without Elsie, keeping Mollie at home would have been an impossible task. Her gentle and kind support of Mollie made her final time on earth filled with a little more sunshine.
The family will have a celebration of life Mollie on August 15, 2026. There will be a church service with a gathering at the church hall after Mollie’s inurnment at St. Michael’s Parish.
In memory of Mollie, please consider memorial donations to either the Alzheimer Society of Newfoundland and Labrador or the Diabetes association of Canada.
Stone, Mary (Mollie) – It is with a sad and heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mary (Mollie) Ann Stone (nee Eveleigh). Mollie passed away peacefully in her home with family by her side on Jan 26, 2026 at the age of 78. Predeceased by her parents Herbert and Mary Eveleigh, and her sister and brother-in-law Marie and William Kent.
Leaving behind with cherished memories are, her forever loved children Jennifer (Bernie), Karen, Sheldon (Lori), and Frank (Christine), her beloved grandchildren who were her heart, Samantha, Victoria, and Bryce, as well as her loving siblings, sister Lorraine (Edmond) and brother Malcom (Irene). She also left behind nieces and nephews who were touched by her kind and loving heart through their years, especially her niece Carol Ann (Bren) whom she had a very special relationship with.
The family would also like to express their thanks and appreciation to Dr. Roger Butler and Kate White, NP with their kind support and care provided to Mollie in her later years. Their continued care enabled Mollie to stay in the comfort of her home as her disease progressed and have the support that she needed to remain there until her end. They would also like to express their thanks to Elsie Drover, her care support worker. Without Elsie, keeping Mollie at home would have been an impossible task. Her gentle and kind support of Mollie made her final time on earth filled with a little more sunshine.
The family will have a celebration of life Mollie on August 15, 2026. There will be a church service with a gathering at the church hall after Mollie’s inurnment at St. Michael’s Parish.
In memory of Mollie, please consider memorial donations to either the Alzheimer Society of Newfoundland and Labrador or the Diabetes association of Canada.
|
Obituary for Brenda (nee Heath) Butt, January 27, 2026, age 83.
|
|
August 10, 1943 to January 27, 2026:
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Brenda Joyce Butt (83) of St. John’s NL on January 27th 2026 at Pleasant View Towers.
Brenda was born the 10th of August 1943. Originally from Bell Island, NL. Brenda spent her professional life as an office administrator at St. James United Church where she forged many life long friendships. She loved the outdoors, spending time at her cabin and molding young minds as a leader in the Boy Scouts of Canada. Brenda had tremendous love for her family and her grandchildren Cameron and Samantha were here pride and joy. Baking was one of her most amazing talents, as well one of her favorite pass times.
Predeceased by husband Samuel Butt, parents Clyde and Gladys Heath and brothers John and Albert Heath.
Leaving to mourn sons Edison (Darleigh), Dave (Jackie), grandchildren Cameron and Samantha. Sisters Phillis (Dick) Dwyer, Bonnie Heath, brothers Paul (Christina) Heath, Kenneth (Carol) Heath, and Dave (Beulah) Heath. Sister in law Lilian Heath and special friends Ruby and Aubrey Hill.
Visitation at Carnell's Funeral Home, 11-2 and 3-9 on January 30th.
Funeral 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 31st at Carnell's.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Brenda Joyce Butt (83) of St. John’s NL on January 27th 2026 at Pleasant View Towers.
Brenda was born the 10th of August 1943. Originally from Bell Island, NL. Brenda spent her professional life as an office administrator at St. James United Church where she forged many life long friendships. She loved the outdoors, spending time at her cabin and molding young minds as a leader in the Boy Scouts of Canada. Brenda had tremendous love for her family and her grandchildren Cameron and Samantha were here pride and joy. Baking was one of her most amazing talents, as well one of her favorite pass times.
Predeceased by husband Samuel Butt, parents Clyde and Gladys Heath and brothers John and Albert Heath.
Leaving to mourn sons Edison (Darleigh), Dave (Jackie), grandchildren Cameron and Samantha. Sisters Phillis (Dick) Dwyer, Bonnie Heath, brothers Paul (Christina) Heath, Kenneth (Carol) Heath, and Dave (Beulah) Heath. Sister in law Lilian Heath and special friends Ruby and Aubrey Hill.
Visitation at Carnell's Funeral Home, 11-2 and 3-9 on January 30th.
Funeral 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 31st at Carnell's.
|
Obituary for Gladys (nee Barrett) Reid, January 24, 2026, age 78.
|
|
With heartfelt sadness, we regret to announce the passing of a loving wife, mother, Nanny, and Great Nan. Gladys passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at the age of 78, at Cambridge Memorial Hospital, surrounded by her family.
Beloved wife of John Reid for 59 years. Dear mother of Darlene (Grant), Winston (Paula), and John (Barb). Devoted Nanny of Brooklyn (Jake), Rachel (Tony), Rebecca (Austin), Taia, Courtney (Grant), and Grant, and loving Great Nan to Jett.
Gladys is predeceased by her parents, John and Elsie Barrett; her siblings Joyce (Don), Loretta (Robert), Max, and Fred; and her brother-in-law Jimmy.
Gladys is survived by her sisters Nina (Jim), Marjorie, Jean (Jim), and Florence (Clyde); her brothers Winston (Marilyn), Ches (Mary), and Robert; her sisters-in-law Ruby and Barb; and her many nieces and nephews.
Lovingly remembered and forever cherished by her many sisters-and brothers-in-law, and by her devoted nieces and nephews of the Reid family, with whom she shared a lifetime of love as a treasured part of the family.
Gladys’s family will receive family and friends from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 3rd at T. Little Funeral Home, 223 Main Street, Cambridge, Ontario, N1R 1X2.
A memorial service will be held in the chapel at T. Little Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 4th at 11:00 a.m. Immediately following the service, friends and loved ones are invited to attend a reception at the Cambridge Newfoundland Club, where food, memories and laughs will be shared in Gladys' honour.
Gladys will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved her. Donations in Gladys’s memory may be made to Trinity Anglican Church.
Beloved wife of John Reid for 59 years. Dear mother of Darlene (Grant), Winston (Paula), and John (Barb). Devoted Nanny of Brooklyn (Jake), Rachel (Tony), Rebecca (Austin), Taia, Courtney (Grant), and Grant, and loving Great Nan to Jett.
Gladys is predeceased by her parents, John and Elsie Barrett; her siblings Joyce (Don), Loretta (Robert), Max, and Fred; and her brother-in-law Jimmy.
Gladys is survived by her sisters Nina (Jim), Marjorie, Jean (Jim), and Florence (Clyde); her brothers Winston (Marilyn), Ches (Mary), and Robert; her sisters-in-law Ruby and Barb; and her many nieces and nephews.
Lovingly remembered and forever cherished by her many sisters-and brothers-in-law, and by her devoted nieces and nephews of the Reid family, with whom she shared a lifetime of love as a treasured part of the family.
Gladys’s family will receive family and friends from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 3rd at T. Little Funeral Home, 223 Main Street, Cambridge, Ontario, N1R 1X2.
A memorial service will be held in the chapel at T. Little Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 4th at 11:00 a.m. Immediately following the service, friends and loved ones are invited to attend a reception at the Cambridge Newfoundland Club, where food, memories and laughs will be shared in Gladys' honour.
Gladys will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved her. Donations in Gladys’s memory may be made to Trinity Anglican Church.
|
Obituary for Ruth (nee Kelloway) Slade, January 24, 2026, age 95.
|
|
July 22, 1930 to January 24, 2026:
Mary Ruth Slade of Bell Island, passed peacefully away in the loving care of St. Luke’s Mercy Home, in St. John’s, on January 24, 2026, aged 95 years.
Predeceased by her husband Gerald Slade, her parents Joseph and Myrtle Kelloway, siblings; Ada, Ollie, Minnie, Tom, and George, and her son in law Billy Clements.
Leaving to mourn are her children; Boyd (Elizabeth), Lester, and Geraldine, grandchildren; Gerald Clements (Lori), Tim Clements (Allison, Jason Slade (Laure), Justin Slade (Christine), Gerald Slade, and Jonathan Slade, her 5 great grandchildren; Cael, Luke, Owen, Maverick, and Lily, also a large circle of family and friends as well as her sister in law Nina Crossman.
Ruth grew up in Salmon Cove before settling on Bell Island with her husband Gerald. She took immense pride in raising her children and watching her grandchildren grow. Second only to them was her love of the shop, Slades Corner Mart, that she and Gerald ran together. Ruth loved being at the shop and was happy to open the doors anytime for anyone who needed something. You could always find her behind the counter with her bright red lipstick, chewing a stick of gum and ready to crack a joke with customers every day.
Special thanks to the management and Staff at St. Luke’s Mercy Home, where Ruth resided for the past 6 years. The care she received was exceptional.
As per Ruth’s wishes, there will be no visitation or service. Interment to be held at the United Church Cemetery on Bell Island.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Jackson United Church on Bell Island.
Mary Ruth Slade of Bell Island, passed peacefully away in the loving care of St. Luke’s Mercy Home, in St. John’s, on January 24, 2026, aged 95 years.
Predeceased by her husband Gerald Slade, her parents Joseph and Myrtle Kelloway, siblings; Ada, Ollie, Minnie, Tom, and George, and her son in law Billy Clements.
Leaving to mourn are her children; Boyd (Elizabeth), Lester, and Geraldine, grandchildren; Gerald Clements (Lori), Tim Clements (Allison, Jason Slade (Laure), Justin Slade (Christine), Gerald Slade, and Jonathan Slade, her 5 great grandchildren; Cael, Luke, Owen, Maverick, and Lily, also a large circle of family and friends as well as her sister in law Nina Crossman.
Ruth grew up in Salmon Cove before settling on Bell Island with her husband Gerald. She took immense pride in raising her children and watching her grandchildren grow. Second only to them was her love of the shop, Slades Corner Mart, that she and Gerald ran together. Ruth loved being at the shop and was happy to open the doors anytime for anyone who needed something. You could always find her behind the counter with her bright red lipstick, chewing a stick of gum and ready to crack a joke with customers every day.
Special thanks to the management and Staff at St. Luke’s Mercy Home, where Ruth resided for the past 6 years. The care she received was exceptional.
As per Ruth’s wishes, there will be no visitation or service. Interment to be held at the United Church Cemetery on Bell Island.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Jackson United Church on Bell Island.
|
Obituary for Ita (nee Kent) Dober, January 19, 2026, age 92.
|
|
It is with broken hearts that the family of the late Ita Margaret Dober (Kent) of Marystown announces her passing. Ita passed away peacefully at the Burin Peninsula Health Care Centre on Monday, January 19, 2026 at the age of 92.
The oldest of 6, Ita was proudly from Bell Island. There, she met and married the love of her life, her husband of 65 years, Albert. She agreed to one year in Marystown, but ended up raising her family and making her life there. She loved to quilt, knit, bake, and yarn over a cup of tea. She loved a mixed drink, a good joke, a game of cards, fishing, Harry Hibbs, & her greatest joy, being a nan and great nan.
Leaving to mourn with a lifetime of wonderful memories are her children, Dennis Dober (Philomena) Conception Bay South, Patsy Senior (Barry) of Clarenville, Doreen Spencer (Al) of Marystown and Kent Dober of Marystown; 3 grandchildren, Brandon Senior (Ashley Roach), Alden Spencer (Jordan Seeley) and Moya Taylor (Cody); great-grandson, Logan Senior; sister-in-law, Linda Kent of Portugal Cove; plus a large circle of extended family and friends.
Ita was predeceased by her husband, Albert J. Dober; parents, George & Elizabeth Kent; brothers, Nish Kent (Rosemary), Tom Kent (Mary) and George Kent; sisters, Mary Lasaga (Mike) and Evelyn Whitehorne (Bill); parents-in-law, Patrick & Annie Dober; brothers-in-law, Walter Dober (Helen) and John Dober (Eileen).
Special thank you to home care workers who provided for the care, compassion and support provided to Albert and Ita over the years. Especially Betty Norman, Debbie Coady, Bev Butler, Frances Hoskins, Ann Palmer and Jehan De Los Santos. Special thanks to the staff at the Burin Hospital for exceptional care in her final days
The Dober Family will be accepting visitors at Peninsula Funeral Home, Creston South on:
Thursday, January 22nd, 2026
10am - 12noon
2pm - 4pm
7pm - 9pm
Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church, Marystown on:
Friday, January 23, 2026 at 2:00pm.
Interment to follow at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Cemetery, Marystown. Flowers gratefully accepted.
The oldest of 6, Ita was proudly from Bell Island. There, she met and married the love of her life, her husband of 65 years, Albert. She agreed to one year in Marystown, but ended up raising her family and making her life there. She loved to quilt, knit, bake, and yarn over a cup of tea. She loved a mixed drink, a good joke, a game of cards, fishing, Harry Hibbs, & her greatest joy, being a nan and great nan.
Leaving to mourn with a lifetime of wonderful memories are her children, Dennis Dober (Philomena) Conception Bay South, Patsy Senior (Barry) of Clarenville, Doreen Spencer (Al) of Marystown and Kent Dober of Marystown; 3 grandchildren, Brandon Senior (Ashley Roach), Alden Spencer (Jordan Seeley) and Moya Taylor (Cody); great-grandson, Logan Senior; sister-in-law, Linda Kent of Portugal Cove; plus a large circle of extended family and friends.
Ita was predeceased by her husband, Albert J. Dober; parents, George & Elizabeth Kent; brothers, Nish Kent (Rosemary), Tom Kent (Mary) and George Kent; sisters, Mary Lasaga (Mike) and Evelyn Whitehorne (Bill); parents-in-law, Patrick & Annie Dober; brothers-in-law, Walter Dober (Helen) and John Dober (Eileen).
Special thank you to home care workers who provided for the care, compassion and support provided to Albert and Ita over the years. Especially Betty Norman, Debbie Coady, Bev Butler, Frances Hoskins, Ann Palmer and Jehan De Los Santos. Special thanks to the staff at the Burin Hospital for exceptional care in her final days
The Dober Family will be accepting visitors at Peninsula Funeral Home, Creston South on:
Thursday, January 22nd, 2026
10am - 12noon
2pm - 4pm
7pm - 9pm
Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church, Marystown on:
Friday, January 23, 2026 at 2:00pm.
Interment to follow at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Cemetery, Marystown. Flowers gratefully accepted.
|
Obituary for Deann Conway, January 13, 2026, age 59.
|
|
May 20, 1966 - January 13, 2026:
It is with heavy and loving hearts that we announce the passing of Deann, who left us peacefully at the age of 59, surrounded by those she loved most. She is predeceased by her beloved mother, Bernice, and father, Michael. Though her time with us feels far too short, she departed this world in the same quiet strength and grace that defined her life.
Born on Bell Island on May 20, 1966, Deann carried a nurturing spirit that touched everyone she met. A nurse by both profession and calling, she graduated from the Grace Hospital in 1987 and devoted more than 40 years to caring for others. To her patients, she was a source of comfort and reassurance; to her colleagues, a steady and compassionate presence who set the standard for the kind of nurse they all aspired to be.
At the centre of Deann’s world was her family. As the beloved wife of her devoted husband, Bill, she was his partner in every sense - steadfast, supportive, and deeply loving. Together, they built a life rooted in devotion, laughter, and a shared commitment to family, each serving as the other’s constant anchor.
As a mother, Deann was the heart of the home. She adored her children, Jeannie (Josh) and Johnathan (Jessica), and poured herself into their lives with unwavering love and pride. Through her example, she taught them kindness, resilience, and integrity - lessons that will continue to guide them always.
Deann found her greatest peace in the simple joys of life. She loved hiking the East Coast Trail, picking blueberries, and spending quiet weekends at the cabin. She cherished her fur babies, Boo and Scout, who were constant companions and a source of comfort and happiness.
A true fighter, Deann faced life’s challenges, including illness, with remarkable courage and grace, never allowing her own struggles to overshadow her care for others or her deep capacity for love.
She will be lovingly remembered by her brother, Michael; her nieces and nephews; extended members of the Conway and Weir families; and her dear friend Bonnie Hawco, and her many colleagues,friends and patients whose lives she touched along the way.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to her oncologist, Dr. Joy McCarthy, whose care went far beyond medicine. Over time, their relationship grew into one of deep trust and friendship - marked by compassion, honesty, and shared tears during the hardest moments. Deann was comforted not only by Dr. McCarthy’s exceptional care, but by the genuine humanity she brought to every conversation. The family also wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the compassionate nursing staff at the Cancer Centre, whose kindness, patience, and unwavering support brought comfort to Deann and her family during the most difficult days.
Deann’s legacy lives on in the countless lives she cared for, the family she cherished, and the compassion she shared so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever held close in our hearts.
Visitation will take place at Hickey’s Funeral Home, 570 Conception Bay Highway, Conception Bay South, on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at All Saints Anglican Church, Foxtrap, on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Flowers are gratefully accepted, or donations may be made in memoriam to the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Foundation. To send a message of condolence, please visit www.hickeysfuneralhome.com
It is with heavy and loving hearts that we announce the passing of Deann, who left us peacefully at the age of 59, surrounded by those she loved most. She is predeceased by her beloved mother, Bernice, and father, Michael. Though her time with us feels far too short, she departed this world in the same quiet strength and grace that defined her life.
Born on Bell Island on May 20, 1966, Deann carried a nurturing spirit that touched everyone she met. A nurse by both profession and calling, she graduated from the Grace Hospital in 1987 and devoted more than 40 years to caring for others. To her patients, she was a source of comfort and reassurance; to her colleagues, a steady and compassionate presence who set the standard for the kind of nurse they all aspired to be.
At the centre of Deann’s world was her family. As the beloved wife of her devoted husband, Bill, she was his partner in every sense - steadfast, supportive, and deeply loving. Together, they built a life rooted in devotion, laughter, and a shared commitment to family, each serving as the other’s constant anchor.
As a mother, Deann was the heart of the home. She adored her children, Jeannie (Josh) and Johnathan (Jessica), and poured herself into their lives with unwavering love and pride. Through her example, she taught them kindness, resilience, and integrity - lessons that will continue to guide them always.
Deann found her greatest peace in the simple joys of life. She loved hiking the East Coast Trail, picking blueberries, and spending quiet weekends at the cabin. She cherished her fur babies, Boo and Scout, who were constant companions and a source of comfort and happiness.
A true fighter, Deann faced life’s challenges, including illness, with remarkable courage and grace, never allowing her own struggles to overshadow her care for others or her deep capacity for love.
She will be lovingly remembered by her brother, Michael; her nieces and nephews; extended members of the Conway and Weir families; and her dear friend Bonnie Hawco, and her many colleagues,friends and patients whose lives she touched along the way.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to her oncologist, Dr. Joy McCarthy, whose care went far beyond medicine. Over time, their relationship grew into one of deep trust and friendship - marked by compassion, honesty, and shared tears during the hardest moments. Deann was comforted not only by Dr. McCarthy’s exceptional care, but by the genuine humanity she brought to every conversation. The family also wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the compassionate nursing staff at the Cancer Centre, whose kindness, patience, and unwavering support brought comfort to Deann and her family during the most difficult days.
Deann’s legacy lives on in the countless lives she cared for, the family she cherished, and the compassion she shared so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever held close in our hearts.
Visitation will take place at Hickey’s Funeral Home, 570 Conception Bay Highway, Conception Bay South, on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at All Saints Anglican Church, Foxtrap, on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Flowers are gratefully accepted, or donations may be made in memoriam to the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Foundation. To send a message of condolence, please visit www.hickeysfuneralhome.com
Today in the History of Bell Island: On January 14, 1937, most of Town Square was destroyed by fire. This was how it was described in an article in the Submarine Miner of November 1954:
|
"One of the worst conflagrations in the history of Bell Island occurred on January 14th, 1937. In a high wind and freezing rain, the Fire Brigade was called upon to perform an almost impossible task in combating a fire which broke out on Town Square, the main business section of the Island. For hours they battled the raging inferno which, before it could be brought under control, had destroyed seven dwellings and fourteen business premises. But for their Herculean efforts on that night, scores of other homes and business places in the district would have been razed."
|
You can read more about Town Square Shops Fires by clicking the button below:
|
The photo below is looking north at the ruins in the bottom half of Town Square. On the left is the DOSCO Survey Office. Just right of middle is the DOSCO Surgery, with William Somerton's Company house next in the picture. The Somerton house and Survey Office (now the Music Hall of Fame) are still standing in 2026.
|
Obituary for Donald Hibbs, January 7, 2026, age 72.
|
|
With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Donald Hibbs, age 72, who passed away at the Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s, on January 7, 2026.
Donald, known lovingly to many as Donny or Jack, was a quiet and gentle soul. Though soft-spoken by nature, once he got going he was full of wit, humour, and warmth, often entertaining those around him with his stories and subtle jokes.
Born and raised on Bell Island, Donald remained deeply connected to his hometown throughout his life. A proud “green man,” he lived on the Green, right next to the home he grew up in. He built his house from scratch, taking great pride in his workmanship and in the life he created there. From his home, he could look toward Number One and Number Two Cover—places filled with cherished memories of swimming and growing up with his siblings along the shoreline.
Donald devoted many years of service to the Church Lads’ Brigade (CLB), Bell Island Company, where he proudly played the bugle. His commitment, faith, and quiet dedication left a lasting mark on the organization and the community he loved.
Donald was predeceased by his parents, Annie Hibbs (Butt) and Cecil Hibbs, and his brother Eric Hibbs.
Left to mourn his passing with love and fond memories are his son Jeffery and his cherished grandson; his siblings George, Clyde, Rachel, Linda, Joan, Wayne (Pauleene), Cecil, Jimmy (Judy), Walter (Melanie), Lorne (Saundra), Dianne, Gloria (Paddy), and Bobby; as well as his many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends, both near and far, throughout Bell Island and beyond.
A special thank you is extended to the doctors, nurses, and staff of the Health Sciences Centre, St. John’s, for the compassionate and attentive care Donny received during his time there.
Absent from the body, present with the Lord.
Donald has now gone home to rest in eternal peace.
Not official obituary, just felt compelled to let all who knew uncle Don about his untimely passing.
Apologies if I missed information of anyone.
Don will have a burial at a later date. Next to his mother and father.
Donald, known lovingly to many as Donny or Jack, was a quiet and gentle soul. Though soft-spoken by nature, once he got going he was full of wit, humour, and warmth, often entertaining those around him with his stories and subtle jokes.
Born and raised on Bell Island, Donald remained deeply connected to his hometown throughout his life. A proud “green man,” he lived on the Green, right next to the home he grew up in. He built his house from scratch, taking great pride in his workmanship and in the life he created there. From his home, he could look toward Number One and Number Two Cover—places filled with cherished memories of swimming and growing up with his siblings along the shoreline.
Donald devoted many years of service to the Church Lads’ Brigade (CLB), Bell Island Company, where he proudly played the bugle. His commitment, faith, and quiet dedication left a lasting mark on the organization and the community he loved.
Donald was predeceased by his parents, Annie Hibbs (Butt) and Cecil Hibbs, and his brother Eric Hibbs.
Left to mourn his passing with love and fond memories are his son Jeffery and his cherished grandson; his siblings George, Clyde, Rachel, Linda, Joan, Wayne (Pauleene), Cecil, Jimmy (Judy), Walter (Melanie), Lorne (Saundra), Dianne, Gloria (Paddy), and Bobby; as well as his many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends, both near and far, throughout Bell Island and beyond.
A special thank you is extended to the doctors, nurses, and staff of the Health Sciences Centre, St. John’s, for the compassionate and attentive care Donny received during his time there.
Absent from the body, present with the Lord.
Donald has now gone home to rest in eternal peace.
Not official obituary, just felt compelled to let all who knew uncle Don about his untimely passing.
Apologies if I missed information of anyone.
Don will have a burial at a later date. Next to his mother and father.
|
Obituary for Margaret (nee Tremblett) Sweeney, January 5, 2026, age 78.
|
|
May 22, 1947 - January 5, 2026:
Margaret Marie Sweeney (nee Tremblett) passed away peacefully at Cambridge Memorial Hospital on January 5, 2026, at the age of 78.
Margaret was a devoted mother to Laurie (Jason) and Shawn, and a loving grandmother to Kaitlin (Ryan) and Gillian, who were the light of her life. She also shared a special bond with her great-nephew Cole, who held a place in her heart much like a grandson.
Born on Bell Island, Newfoundland, Margaret was the daughter of the late Mary and William Tremblett. She later moved to Cambridge, Ontario, where she built a life surrounded by family and friends.
Margaret is survived by her sister Helen (Rick) of Newfoundland and is predeceased by her brothers John, Walter, and William, as well as her sister Ann Tremblett. She was a cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews who will fondly remember her kindness and warmth.
Anyone who knew Margaret knew she had a heart of gold. She was a true family woman who would do anything for those she loved. She enjoyed a good game of bingo or cards, loved to reminisce and tell stories, and was always ready with a joke or a laugh. Above all, she adored her granddaughters and spent many of her days with them, creating memories that will be treasured forever.
Margaret’s love, generosity, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the Cambridge Newfoundland Club from 4pm – 7pm. Donations in Margaret's memory may be made to the Cambridge & District Humane Society or the Alzheimer's Society of Waterloo-Wellington
Arrangements entrusted to Corbett Funeral Home, 95 Dundas Street N., Cambridge, Ontario, N1R 5N6, 519-740-0669.
“Her love lives on in the hearts of her family, today and always.”
Margaret Marie Sweeney (nee Tremblett) passed away peacefully at Cambridge Memorial Hospital on January 5, 2026, at the age of 78.
Margaret was a devoted mother to Laurie (Jason) and Shawn, and a loving grandmother to Kaitlin (Ryan) and Gillian, who were the light of her life. She also shared a special bond with her great-nephew Cole, who held a place in her heart much like a grandson.
Born on Bell Island, Newfoundland, Margaret was the daughter of the late Mary and William Tremblett. She later moved to Cambridge, Ontario, where she built a life surrounded by family and friends.
Margaret is survived by her sister Helen (Rick) of Newfoundland and is predeceased by her brothers John, Walter, and William, as well as her sister Ann Tremblett. She was a cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews who will fondly remember her kindness and warmth.
Anyone who knew Margaret knew she had a heart of gold. She was a true family woman who would do anything for those she loved. She enjoyed a good game of bingo or cards, loved to reminisce and tell stories, and was always ready with a joke or a laugh. Above all, she adored her granddaughters and spent many of her days with them, creating memories that will be treasured forever.
Margaret’s love, generosity, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the Cambridge Newfoundland Club from 4pm – 7pm. Donations in Margaret's memory may be made to the Cambridge & District Humane Society or the Alzheimer's Society of Waterloo-Wellington
Arrangements entrusted to Corbett Funeral Home, 95 Dundas Street N., Cambridge, Ontario, N1R 5N6, 519-740-0669.
“Her love lives on in the hearts of her family, today and always.”
Winnie (nee Hawco) Crocker (1927-2026):
The article below was published in The Telegram, May 1, 2003, pp. A1-A2. See Winnie Crocker's obituary below.
The article below was published in The Telegram, May 1, 2003, pp. A1-A2. See Winnie Crocker's obituary below.
|
Obituary for Winnifred (nee Hawco) Crocker, January 8, 2026, age 98.
|
|
With heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved aunt, Winnie Crocker. She was called home by the Lord after a long, well-lived life at the age of 98.
Winnie was the last of the siblings of Joseph and Josephine Hawco.
In addition to her parents, Winnie was predeceased by her husband Lawrence (Lar) Crocker, brothers Tom, Joe (Ollie), Steve (Mary); sisters: Mary Lahey, Florence Hawco, Kathleen Martin (Leo), Elizabeth Gatherall (Jack), Marion St. George (Jack), Eileen Hawco, Josephine Sheppard (Hal), brother-in-law: Alex Crocker, sisters-in-law: Mary Carr, Margaret Brace and Laura Aitken. Also predeceased by several nieces and nephews and special niece/friend/travelling companion, Dianne Hawco.
Leaving to mourn many nieces, nephews and close friends.
Winnie was born and raised on Bell Island. After graduating high school, she moved to St. John’s where she met her husband-to-be, Lar Crocker. They started their own business in 1954. Lar’s was a cornerstone of downtown St. John’s. Lar and Winnie served fresh fruit, candy apples, chocolates, custard cones and many other treats to residents of St. John’s and beyond the overpass – ask anyone who’s been there and they’ll bring up fond memories of Sunday drives with a stopover for an iconic custard cone at Lar’s. When Lar passed away in 1991, Winnie (affectionately known as Mrs. Lar) operated the store on her own for nearly a decade. After 49 years in business, she decided it was time to close shop in 2003.
Winnie and Lar cherished time spent with friends. Travelling down south was a yearly tradition they looked forward to. Weekly card games with their close circle were a highlight, often accompanied by Winnie’s homemade treats. One thing was certain, no one ever left Winnie Crocker’s home hungry. She had a gift for preparing delicious, nourishing meals in a matter of minutes.
Curling was her sport to watch on TV and when “Brad” played, everything was put on hold.
She volunteered with her church, as well as the food bank, well up into her 90’s.
Winnie was a gentle soul, always aimed to please and had a smile for anyone she met. She will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by all whose lives she touched. She dearly loved her family and told them at every opportunity.
Special thank you to Winslowe Ridge Retirement Home for their care during her stay there. Thank you to the doctors and nurses at St. Clare’s and Health Science. Sincere gratitude to her nephew, Steve who looked after her every need right up to the very end.
"Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories." - Ronald Reagan
Visitation will be at Caul’s Funeral Home 84 LeMarchant Road on Sunday January 11, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Teresa’s on Tuesday January 13th at 1:00 p.m.. Inurnment to follow at Holy Sepulchre on Topsail Rd.
No flowers, by request, due to serious allergy in the family. Donations can be made to The Gathering Place or charity of choice.
Winnie was the last of the siblings of Joseph and Josephine Hawco.
In addition to her parents, Winnie was predeceased by her husband Lawrence (Lar) Crocker, brothers Tom, Joe (Ollie), Steve (Mary); sisters: Mary Lahey, Florence Hawco, Kathleen Martin (Leo), Elizabeth Gatherall (Jack), Marion St. George (Jack), Eileen Hawco, Josephine Sheppard (Hal), brother-in-law: Alex Crocker, sisters-in-law: Mary Carr, Margaret Brace and Laura Aitken. Also predeceased by several nieces and nephews and special niece/friend/travelling companion, Dianne Hawco.
Leaving to mourn many nieces, nephews and close friends.
Winnie was born and raised on Bell Island. After graduating high school, she moved to St. John’s where she met her husband-to-be, Lar Crocker. They started their own business in 1954. Lar’s was a cornerstone of downtown St. John’s. Lar and Winnie served fresh fruit, candy apples, chocolates, custard cones and many other treats to residents of St. John’s and beyond the overpass – ask anyone who’s been there and they’ll bring up fond memories of Sunday drives with a stopover for an iconic custard cone at Lar’s. When Lar passed away in 1991, Winnie (affectionately known as Mrs. Lar) operated the store on her own for nearly a decade. After 49 years in business, she decided it was time to close shop in 2003.
Winnie and Lar cherished time spent with friends. Travelling down south was a yearly tradition they looked forward to. Weekly card games with their close circle were a highlight, often accompanied by Winnie’s homemade treats. One thing was certain, no one ever left Winnie Crocker’s home hungry. She had a gift for preparing delicious, nourishing meals in a matter of minutes.
Curling was her sport to watch on TV and when “Brad” played, everything was put on hold.
She volunteered with her church, as well as the food bank, well up into her 90’s.
Winnie was a gentle soul, always aimed to please and had a smile for anyone she met. She will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by all whose lives she touched. She dearly loved her family and told them at every opportunity.
Special thank you to Winslowe Ridge Retirement Home for their care during her stay there. Thank you to the doctors and nurses at St. Clare’s and Health Science. Sincere gratitude to her nephew, Steve who looked after her every need right up to the very end.
"Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories." - Ronald Reagan
Visitation will be at Caul’s Funeral Home 84 LeMarchant Road on Sunday January 11, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Teresa’s on Tuesday January 13th at 1:00 p.m.. Inurnment to follow at Holy Sepulchre on Topsail Rd.
No flowers, by request, due to serious allergy in the family. Donations can be made to The Gathering Place or charity of choice.
|
Happy Old Christmas Day, Everyone! When I was growing up in the 1950s-60s, we would get an extra little gift on this day, usually something inexpensive like a colouring book or a package of embroidered hankies for the girls. (Maybe regular handkerchiefs for the boys?)
One year, when we were 9 or 10 years old, my friend Beulah and I got the idea, probably from seeing others doing it, of dressing in our Sunday best and going door-to-door asking, "Can we come in to see your tree?" This was in the afternoon, probably on Boxing Day, but it may have been Old Christmas Day. We had never done this before and were feeling nervous as we knocked on the first door. To our delight, we were invited to step in and were shown into our neighbour's front room, where we heaped praises on the wonderful job they had done of decorating their tree. We were gob-smacked really because, even though back doors were always open for visitors to drop in year round, children rarely got past the kitchen door to see the mysterious rooms beyond. So there we were, not knowing what we should do next, and were about to make our retreat, when the lady of the house came back in with syrup and fruitcake for us! Encouraged by this, we continued on to the next house and the next. |
It was a surprise at one house to see that their custom was to lay the lighter gifts in the boughs of the tree. At some houses, we were given an apple or an orange. We stuffed them in our pockets, which were overflowing with goodies by the time we got back home feeling pretty darned pleased with ourselves.
|
This Christmas memory from the 1940s to 50s is from Sydney (1921-1998) & Monica (nee Kent, 1926-2001) Bown of The Front:
"There was a whole bunch of us friends and we were all young, newly married, some had small children and I'm telling you, we were worn out by the time Christmas was over. There was no such thing as pre-Christmas parties. Christmas parties started after Boxing Day and went right on until the last of January. Bernie & Madeline Stoyles lived across the street from us and always had their party last. And believe it or not, they kept their Christmas tree up till then. There were no artificial trees in those days. They managed to keep that tree fresh enough to have a party the last week of January. In between then, there would be 2 or 3 nights a week you'd be going to parties; we'd all take our turn. And then working every day, wouldn't we be tired. But we were young then. Oh, what great times at Christmas, I must say.
All the stores would be decorated. Christmas Eve was always the men's day. For some reason, the men would always go shopping for their wives on Christmas Eve. You'd see more men there, they'd be alone then, of course, picking out something for their wives. They'd always leave it till the last minute, I suppose, or it was just tradition or something. But there would be an awful lot of fellas in there (on Town Square) on Christmas Eve. The mines would be closed then for the day. The only time they used to close then was two weeks at Christmas to make the necessary repairs and give the men time off. No such thing as vacations then in the summertime until after 1950. The union got in (1948) and then they began to have vacation pay. Oh, they worked hard, those men, I'll tell you. They worked 6 days a week and no vacations."
The photo below was taken behind John Bennett's shop on the corner of Main Street & East End Road, March 1962. Pat & Eddie Kavanagh delivered groceries for the store in a horse-drawn sleigh. Photo by Tom Careless, courtesy of Dave Careless.
"There was a whole bunch of us friends and we were all young, newly married, some had small children and I'm telling you, we were worn out by the time Christmas was over. There was no such thing as pre-Christmas parties. Christmas parties started after Boxing Day and went right on until the last of January. Bernie & Madeline Stoyles lived across the street from us and always had their party last. And believe it or not, they kept their Christmas tree up till then. There were no artificial trees in those days. They managed to keep that tree fresh enough to have a party the last week of January. In between then, there would be 2 or 3 nights a week you'd be going to parties; we'd all take our turn. And then working every day, wouldn't we be tired. But we were young then. Oh, what great times at Christmas, I must say.
All the stores would be decorated. Christmas Eve was always the men's day. For some reason, the men would always go shopping for their wives on Christmas Eve. You'd see more men there, they'd be alone then, of course, picking out something for their wives. They'd always leave it till the last minute, I suppose, or it was just tradition or something. But there would be an awful lot of fellas in there (on Town Square) on Christmas Eve. The mines would be closed then for the day. The only time they used to close then was two weeks at Christmas to make the necessary repairs and give the men time off. No such thing as vacations then in the summertime until after 1950. The union got in (1948) and then they began to have vacation pay. Oh, they worked hard, those men, I'll tell you. They worked 6 days a week and no vacations."
The photo below was taken behind John Bennett's shop on the corner of Main Street & East End Road, March 1962. Pat & Eddie Kavanagh delivered groceries for the store in a horse-drawn sleigh. Photo by Tom Careless, courtesy of Dave Careless.
