Obituaries
Robert “Bob” William Davidson
Robert “Bob” William Davidson, 88, of Isaac’s Harbour, Guysborough County, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, in St. Mary’s Memorial Hospital in Sherbrooke. Bob was a son of the late Ernest and Bessie (Sullivan) Davidson. Born and raised in Isaac’s Harbour, he carried a lifelong connection to the water and the outdoors. He spent his childhood living in the Isaac’s Harbour Lighthouse, where his father served as the light keeper. In his younger years, he worked with the RCMP Marine Division in a variety of roles. Later, he went on to sail the Great Lakes as part of the engine room crew. Bob’s love of the community always drew him back home to Isaac’s Harbour, where he spent the majority of his life working as a lobster fisherman until his retirement. Bob found joy in hunting, time spent in the woods, and the quiet rhythms of nature. Hunting seasons were spent at the Mount in his camp The Owl’s Hoot, reconnecting with friends and taking part in an unspoken rivalry for the best deer. Bob was a proud Master Mason and a dedicated member of Stormont Masonic Lodge #96 for more than 65 years, having served in every office at one time or another. In recent years, he held the roles of junior deacon and lodge historian. In 2000, he was honoured with the meritorious service award, a prestigious recognition given to Masons who demonstrate exceptional service and unwavering commitment to their lodge and the fraternity as a whole. On June 6, 2021, Bob was appointed grand steward, a high honour in the Lodge. He was also a member of Sunrise Lodge #116. Bob was an avid reader and looked forward to his regular book delivery from the library. He loved a challenging crossword and didn’t like to miss an episode of Jeopardy. He enjoyed trying for a mackerel at the wharf and stopping in at the post office for his daily chat. After retiring, Bob embraced his creative spirit, turning to poetry and sharing his words, stories, and memories with those around him. A natural storyteller, he delighted in recounting moments from his life, offering both laughter and quiet reflection. His deep knowledge of local history was something he shared generously, helping others feel connected to the past. Above all, Bob’s greatest pride and joy was his wife and family. From his children and grandchildren to the many in the community he lovingly claimed as family, fatherhood was a role he embraced wholeheartedly. Bob was endlessly proud of his family’s accomplishments, quick to share photos, and generous with the warm bear hugs he offered to everyone. He loved sharing stories about his family, and his pride in them was evident in every conversation. Bob was also a devoted cat dad, sharing his home with many cats over the years - each one becoming more spoiled than the last, and always more than his children. Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen; his children, Rob (Vanessa), Isle Madame; Lisa (Dan) Parolin, Fall River and Eugene (Raylene), Isaac’s Harbour; grandchildren, Eric (Ashley) Smith and Jenna Parolin; his great-grandchildren, William, Olivia, and Christopher Smith. He was predeceased by his sister, Ruby; brother, Eugene; and grandson, Jacob Davidson. Funeral service was held in the Isaac’s Harbour Fire Hall, on January 31 with Lewis MacIntosh officiating. Interment will be held at a later date in Isaac’s Harbour Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Isaac’s Harbour Cemetery Fund at Kathy Fownes, 554 Isaac’s Harbour Road, B0H 1S0 or email isaacsharbourcemetery@gmail.com or Harbourview Volunteer Fire Department at Harbourview Volunteer Fire Department, 13566 Hwy 316, Isaac’s Harbour, B0H 1J0. Bob’s family expresses heartfelt thanks to friends and neighbours for their kindness and to the staff of St. Mary’s Memorial Hospital for the compassionate care provided during his short time there. On-line condolences: www.gwgiffin.com
Lloyd Seymour Flick
FLICK, Lloyd Seymour, 55, of Isaac’s Harbour passed away suddenly at home on Saturday, January 24, 2026. Born in Antigonish, he was a son of Berkley and Jean (Clyburne) Flick. He went to NSCC and studied carpentry, which he worked at until his health declined. Lloyd lived a simple and peaceful life, enjoying time with family, friends and his dog, Piper. He is survived by his daughter, Jenna (Mikeal) Flick-O’Neill; grandson, Maverick; several nieces, nephews and their families; many aunts and uncles. He was predeceased by his sister, Pamela Flick; and cousin, Miranda Flick. A family graveside service will be held in the spring in Isaac’s Harbour Cemetery. Memorial Donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada at Heart and Stroke Foundation 1200-2300 Young Street, Box 2414 Toronto, ON, M4P 1E4 or heartandstroke.ca. Online condolences: www.gwgiffin.com
Gary William Hines
HINES, Gary William, 64, Sherbrooke, Guysborough County, passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, in St. Martha’s Regional Hospital, Antigonish. Beloved wife, Laurel Doxtater is sad to announce the passing of her husband, Gary Hines. Gary will be dearly missed by his three sons, Gary (Tanya), Darcy (Mckain), Brandon (Emma); grandchildren, Landon, Emily, and Addison. He will also be missed by his mother, Jeanette; devoted brother, Scott (Jessica); treasured niece, Brooklynn; brother-in-law, Perry; sisters-in-law, Marion, Norma and Eva. Gary was predeceased by his father, Walter Hines; brother, Tim. Gary was a free spirit who endured his health problems with dignity and still could always make people smile or laugh. Gary was happiest when he was with Laurie. A beautiful man has walked through our lives and left beautiful, lasting memories. A celebration of Gary’s Life will be held on Sunday, February 8, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Country Harbour Gun Club. Memorial donations may be made to Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Country Harbour, or The Country Harbour Gun Club. Online condolences: www.gwgiffin.com
Judith Lorraine “Judy” MacDonald
1967 – 2026
MacDonald, Judith Lorraine “Judy”, 58, of Black Avon, Antigonish County, passed away on January 21, 2026, in St. Martha’s Regional Hospital, Antigonish, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Antigonish and raised in Pomquet, she was a daughter of the late Julian and Leona (Benoit) Melanson.
Judy was a devoted, loving wife and mother who took immense pride in her children and their accomplishments. She celebrated their milestones wholeheartedly, always standing behind them with unwavering love and support. When Judy was not taking care of those she loved, she was a devoted hockey fan and could always be found cheering on both the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Sceptres with a pure passion for the game. People were drawn to Judy for her calm, grounded, and reassuring presence. She was deeply genuine, quietly strong, and always herself, with an effortless ability to see the good in everyone she met.
Judy found happiness in life’s simplest pleasures. Whether it be adding to her frog collection, going to a Sunday bingo, enjoying a summer evening relaxing on her front porch or playing her weekly round of darts in the Havre Boucher dart league. Yet nothing brought her more happiness than gathering around a table for a game of cards with family and friends or preparing a home cooked meal and ensuring no one left her home hungry. Judy was honored to receive the title of grandmère and took great pride in spoiling her grandchildren, surrounding them with plenty of love and warm hugs.
Judy worked at Beech Hill Auto, where she was a warm-hearted and dependable colleague, who took pride in her work and appreciated the relationships she built along the way.
She is survived by her loving husband, John; children, Ashley MacDonald (Devin), Black Avon; Dawson MacDonald (Theresa), Pomquet; and Melissa Dort (Ryan), Alberta; grandchildren, Rylyn and Ruthie; sisters, Carol (late Art), Theresa (Barry), Janette (late Eric), Elaine (late Ed), and Kathleen (Ray); brother, Michael; brothers-in-law, Francis (Debby), Roddie (Natalie), and Mike; sister-in-law, Anne (Paul); 24 nieces and nephews and their families.
Predeceased by her sisters, Margaret and Dianne; brothers, Raymond, Clifford, George, and Bernie; two sisters, in infancy; and her father-and-mother-in-law, Willie and Pearl MacDonald.
The family thanks Dr. Howard, Dr. Rice and the staff from the palliative care unit at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital for their kindness and compassionate care.
Cremation has taken place, and a funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, February 4, at 11 a.m. in Immaculate Conception Church, Heatherton.
In memoriam, donations to St. Martha’s Regional Hospital Foundation (palliative care unit) or Hope for Wildlife appreciated.
Online condolences: www.clcurry.com
Gary Steeves
1952 – 2026
Gary Steeves, 73, born on April 19, 1952 in Antigonish, passed away peacefully January 30, 2026, at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital, after a courageous battle with cancer over the past several years.
Born in Antigonish, he was the beloved son of the late Donald and Margaret “Peggy” (MacDonald) Steeves.
Gary grew up in Ohio, NS, where he developed a strong work ethic and many great friends that stayed with him throughout his life. He worked for many years as a heavy equipment operator, both locally and out west around Clyde’s Corner, before spending 20 years with Ron Chisholm Hydro-seeding. Gary loved to work and took great pride in using his skills to keep busy on his property and to help neighbours, family, and friends whenever he could.
Above all else, Gary lived for his family. He cherished every moment spent with his children and grandchildren. He rarely missed a special occasion like birthday parties, graduations, sporting events, or just a drive over the back roads of the Keppoch Mountain. His grandchildren held his most treasured moments and a very special place in his heart.
Gary is survived by his partner and best friend, Marilyn Whidden; his children, LeeAnn Steeves, Garrett Steeves (Melissa McGregor), Leta Whidden, and Leanne Grant. He is also survived by his siblings, Donna (Angus Coutts), Claude, Rebecca, Lila (John Connor), Linda, Carolena (Andre Noel), Gordon, Mark, Martha (Gerry Gurney), Donald, Kim (Tim Walker), as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.
He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren, Connor Smith, Gage and Keilan Martin, Maredith and Casey Grant-Spin, Haley and Jacob MacGillivray, and Logan Bakker.
Gary was predeceased by his siblings, Cpl. John Steeves and Jeannie Steeves; and brother-in-law, Dave West.
Visitation was held February 3, with funeral Mass taking place February 4 at St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, St. Josephs, with Father Danny MacLellan and Father Thaddeus Chikezie Orga presiding. Reception followed at the St. Joseph’s Lakeside Community Centre.
The family expresses sincere thanks to the doctors and nurses of the palliative care unit of St Martha’s Hospital for the special care Gary received while there.
Donations in Gary’s memory can be made to the Antigonish Town & County Palliative Care Society.
Online condolences: www.clcurry.com
