Obituaries

Thomas "Tom" Churchill, 69, of Port Maitland, Yarmouth County, passed away unexpectedly at his home on October 4, 2026.

Raised in Port Maitland, Tom was a lifelong fisherman, which defined much of his life. For more than four decades, he earned his living on the waters off southwestern Nova Scotia as a lobster fisherman, captain, and owner-operator. Well-known throughout Yarmouth County's fishing community, Tom spent countless seasons working from Port Maitland Wharf, where he became a familiar and respected presence among fellow fishermen, buyers, deckhands, and friends.

Tom learned the lobster fishery from his father, Jack, working alongside him years before striking out on his own. Ambitious, hardworking, and never afraid to take a chance, Tom earned a reputation as one of the area's most dedicated fishermen during the prime of his career. He first purchased the vessel Pat & Boys, while shortly after building the Linda M.C. He later finished his years captaining the Alex & Jen, a vessel he built and named after his two children. Fishing was not simply an occupation for Tom; it was his life. Whether hauling traps, fixing gear, listening to the weather, or having a yarn on the VHF, he was most at home around the boats, the wharves, and the people who made their living from the sea.

Tom will be remembered not only for the life he built on the water, but also for the conversations shared on the wharf, his willingness to lend a hand, and the many stories exchanged with friends over the years.

Tom was the son of the late John “Jack” and Edna (Smith) Churchill.

He is survived by his son, Alex (Megan); daughter, Jen (Paul); newborn grandson, Anthony; sisters, Ruth (Bernie), Esther, and Mary; brothers, Mark and John (Susan); his former wife, Linda; and many nieces, a nephew, extended family members, and friends.

In addition to his parents, Tom was predeceased by his brothers-in-law, Harold Joseph Muise (husband of Esther) and William Sollows (husband of Mary).

Cremation has taken place. A graveside service and interment will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, October 17th at the Port Maitland and Beaver River Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate Tom's life.