Obituaries

John Cecil “Boss” Armsworthy passed away suddenly on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at home.

John was born in Canso on September 11, 1953. He was the son of Albert and Dorothy (Rice) Armsworthy of Canso.

John worked as supervisor at National Sea and Clearwater Seafood. He owned and operated two small businesses and was a part-time fisherman. He was a fireman with the Canso/Hazel Hill Volunteer Fire Department and an avid volunteer with Canso and Area minor hockey.

John is survived by wife, Margaret (Cole); son, Benjamin (Lacey); grandchildren, James, Amber (Terry), Monica, Marcus and Maura; great-grandchildren, Blake and Bryer, who will miss him dearly; brothers, Adrian (Mary Isabel), Valley; Eric (Marg), Finley (Irene), all of Canso; sister, Patricia (Jim), Charlottetown; stepsister, Loretta (Gregor) Lambourne, Port Hilford; several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his son, Gordon; stepmother, Ruth; brother, Seaward “Junkie” and sister, Annette “Dolly”.

Cremation has taken place. 

Visitation was held April 27 in Dennis Haverstock Funeral Home, Canso, with the funeral service taking place on April 28 in Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church. Burial followed in Star of the Sea cemetery. The family met friends for a reception in the Canso/Hazel Hill fire hall following the service. Donations may be made to Star of the Sea Parish or to Canso/Hazel Hill Volunteer Fire Department.

Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.haverstocks.com

It is with heavy hearts we announce the unexpected passing of Daniel (Dan) Gillis, at his residence in Guysborough, April 25, 2025 at the age of 73. Dan was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, whose warmth, wisdom and kindness touched the lives of all who knew him.

Born in Sydney, Dan lived a life filled with love, integrity and service to others. He worked for the CIBC for many years in various communities. Dan then became administrator of Guysborough Options for Adaptive Living Society (GOALS), which brought him great joy. He served as executive director of the Guysborough County Regional Development Authority and later was administrator of the Milford Haven Nursing Home. Dan was also a devoted member of the Guysborough Lions Club. Through these roles, Dan made lasting contributions that helped make Guysborough municipality a better place to live.

Known for his sunny disposition and the friendliest of smiles, Dan was a friend to all and a beloved member of his community. He faced the challenges of dementia in his final years with quiet strength and grace. Though the illness touched his memory, it never dimmed the warmth of his heart or the kindness in his eyes. Dan had a keen love for music that never waned, even during his seven-year battle with dementia, as he continued to hum and sing along to his favourite songs.

Dan found his greatest joy in his family, for more than 50 years of his life. He raised six wonderful children and was the proud grandfather to nine grandchildren. His hobbies revolved around his family, and his love of travel led him on many road trips and flights to visit them across Alberta, Ontario and Bermuda. Dan loved his time on the golf course, enjoying not just the game, but also the laughs and good company that came with it.

Dan is survived by his wife, Ursula; his children, Lisa Bowers (Dennis), Gatineau; Helen Gillis-Cooze (Michael), Bermuda; Jeff Gillis (Amy), Fort McMurray, Hannah, Ottawa; Harrison (Allie), Guysborough; Sinclair Ryan (Arianne), Point Tupper; nine beloved grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. Dan also had a wide circle of loyal and dedicated friends, including Marian Brow, his cherished caregiver.

Dan is predeceased by his parents, James and Sadie (Doolan) Gillis; his chosen sister, Julie, and his adoring mother-in-law, Helen (McIntyre) McNamara.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 1, at St. Ann’s Church, (86 Church Street Guysborough), from 3-6 p.m. Funeral service will be held on Friday, May 2, at 11 a.m., with a reception to follow at the Chedabucto Lifestyle Complex, 60 Green Street. Family flowers only please. Donations may be made to the Guysborough & Area Dementia Support Group in his honor.

He will be dearly missed and forever remembered for his love, kindness and the light he brought into our lives. A true gentleman in every sense, Dan lived with unwavering love for his family. He taught us patience, the power of a soft-spoken word and the enduring strength of quiet kindness.

Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Dennis Haverstock Funeral Home, Guysborough. Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.haverstocks.com

Langille, Francis Manford, 70: It is with heavy and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our dearest husband, father and Dada, Francis Langille, on April 15, 2025, in St. Mary’s Memorial Hospital, Sherbrooke. Born August 14, 1954, in Sherbrooke, he was a son of the late Gordon and Geneva (Jollota) Langille of West Liscomb. Francis always had a profound love for all he adored and that began at an early age of 15 when he met Laura, who became his wife in 1977. They resided in their family home in West Liscomb, which he built with his own hands. That home was a sanctuary built from love, laughter, fond outdoor memories, the best storytelling and countless family adventures, and where they were blessed with their two children, Michelle (Shell Ann) and Trevor (Bino). Many values were shared in their home, teaching many right things and some harmless wrongs. Always putting his family first. Some of his proudest moments were spent with his pride and joy, his five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren for which he was their Dada: Kelsey, Tara, Nicholas, Amelia, Liam; great-grandchildren, Brayden, Logan, Deric and one on the way. He would often be heard saying “Laura, look at what we started,” with pure joy on his face. Francis was a dedicated and knowledgeable employee of Sherbrooke Construction for over 30 years. He made friends at every job site, some who became family. As his health had begun to pose challenges, he then worked at St. Mary’s Transfer Station until his retirement. He ran an organized and efficient site, supplying locals with treasures that he collected, knowing someday each and every piece may have valuable use. At home, Francis was always a provider and selfless giver, often shorting himself. He was an avid outdoorsman with a love for salmon fishing, deer hunting and the joy of walking through a beautiful hardwood hill. All of which he passed down the line. Life at home will never be the same without him, as he imprinted in us the skills to navigate this world. He taught so many life lessons without even trying, just by including us in every part of his day. Survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Laura; daughter, Michelle (Angus), Liscomb Mills; son Trevor (Laura), Elmsdale; his treasured grandchildren, Kelsey (Brandon McGrath), Tara (Brandon Lowe), Nicholas, Amelia, Liam; great-grandchildren, Brayden, Logan, Deric and one on the way; brother and best friend, Gordon; brothers, Arthur (Norma), Stephen (Holly); sister, Loriann; nieces and nephews, several aunts and uncles. Predeceased by grandparents, sister-in-law, Judy Langille; nephews, Michael and “Pooch”; and best friend, four legged companion, Reese. We don’t feel as if you left us, we just feel as if you walked one step ahead to see what’s next. Until then “42!” The family extends special thanks to the wonderful staff and Dr. Ackermann of St. Mary’s Memorial Hospital, Shebrooke, for their kindness shown. In respect of Francis’ wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral services. Burial at a later date.