Obituaries

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Thomas (Tom) Joseph Jeffrey, aged 89, of Halifax, Nova Scotia. A devoted great-grandfather, grandfather, father, and entrepreneur, Tom passed peacefully on October 19, 2025, in the loving company of his granddaughter Kayla and daughter Sherry, after a courageous battle with kidney and heart failure.

Born in Louisdale, Cape Breton, Tom was the son of the late Alfred and Eva Jeffrey. He lived a full and colourful life, defined by his deep love for family and enduring friendships.

Tom is survived by his devoted partner of 11 years, Barbara Ross; his daughter Sherry Ross-Gallant (Gerard); son Thomas Jeffrey Jr. (Melanie); granddaughters Kayla Ross (Matt Smith), Courtney, and Claire; grandsons Lucas, Kyle, and Tanner; and great-granddaughter Eva Grace. He also leaves behind his sister Elizabeth Jeffrey and many cherished nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his first wife and lifelong love, Carol A. Jeffrey (Hanson); his daughter Maureen Jeffrey; and his brothers Alfred, Edmond, Danny, and Willy.

Tom’s life was marked by hard work and versatility. He proudly served in the Canadian Armed Forces as part of the “Black Watch” regiment until a grenade injury ended his military career. In his twenties, he sold fruits and vegetables from a truck with his brother Willy, drove a taxi, sold vacuum cleaners and also worked for the Atlantic Lottery. Later, he built a successful career in real estate with Pat King Real Estate and served his community as an alderman.

After retirement, Tom and his first wife, Carol, cherished summers with their granddaughter Kayla at Evangeline Beach Family Campground where he worked as a ground’s keeper for the Boyd family. Evangeline Beach was a place filled with laughter, love, and Tom’s legendary fish and chips (a recipe only shared with his good friend Ron Gaudet). Kayla holds dear the memories of her childhood spent in the Land of Evangeline, a joy now passed down to her daughter, Eva Grace, who also finds magic in that same special place.

Tom was a loyal and fierce Montreal Canadiens fan. His son would often say that his dad was their number one supporter. He enjoyed playing cribbage and was a devoted bingo enthusiast, especially on Monday nights at the Fairview Legion. He loved spirited political debates with his sons-in-law Gerard and Matt, and often returned to his beloved Louisdale to fish with his friend Stan, bringing home many trout to share.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday October 29, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Fairview Legion.

Donations may be made to the Canadian Kidney Foundation.