Obituary of Rev. Stanley Elroy McKillop

Reverend Stanley “Elroy” McKillop, 86, of Bedford, N.S., passed away on September 24, 2021, at home with his daughter Kathryn by his side. Born in Stewiacke, N.S., to the late George and Gladys (Fisher) McKillop, Elroy’s early years were spent in Stewiacke and Truro. A sensitive man with deep reserves of compassion, Elroy began his journey in ministry in 1955 at Dalhousie University as a candidate from Truro Presbytery. Upon graduating in 1958, he entered Pine Hill Divinity Hall, earning his Master of Divinity in 1961. During his ministry, he served pastoral charges in Marsden, Sask, O’Leary - West Cape, PEI, Port Wallis, NS and Springhill, NS. During each of these postings Elroy was active in the Presbytery, Conference, and for a time, served on the National Nominating Committee. He was extremely proud to have served the United Church. Upon his retirement in 1999 he prayed that he had been able to give back to his parishioners even a portion of what had been given to him by those under his spiritual leadership and by the broader United Church. Elroy wished to convey his warmest thanks to all who knew him through the UCC for 60 years of blessings. His last years were spent as a member of Bethany United Church. He considered many from that congregation to be ‘family’. Elroy was known to be a sharp dresser, often with outfits highlighted by colourful ties. He was also an extraordinary volunteer who excelled at serving during church events, making all feel welcome and included. Most everyone he met would later receive a hand-written card perfectly worded and suited to the occasion. He loved to travel, he loved to dance, whether in a church or a barn and he loved to garden. Over his lifetime he formed deep and lasting friendships, including many friends from his condominium. He served on the condo Board of Directors for 17 years, as well as Secretary/Treasurer for many other associations. Elroy was predeceased by his wife Margaret (Osborne) and his sister Joan. He is survived by his children with first wife Carolyn Crowell, Heather, Michael and Kathryn (Donnie Norrad), his late wife’s son David MacRae (Karen), his brother Ivan (Marilyn), Aunt Cora and grandchildren Devyn, Tanner, Rowan, Meagan, Emily, Christopher, as well as three great grandchildren, two nieces and many cousins. All are welcome to a visitation to be held on October 6, 2021 from 1-4 pm at Bethany United Church. A Celebration of Life will be held October 7, 2021 at 1 pm at Bethany United Church, 7171 Clinton Ave., Halifax. Due to COVID-19 restrictions space is limited at the service. Please call 902-455-0521 to pre-register. For those unable to attend the service it will be available on the church website via live stream (bethanyunitedchurch.ca). Please wear your mask and be prepared to follow COVID-19 protocols. Interment to follow directly after service in Pine Grove Cemetery, Stewiacke East. All are welcome to join the family there. Family flowers only. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bethany United Church, Palliative care in Halifax (qe2foundation.ca) or an organization close to your heart. Elroy’s children would like to thank Uncle Ivan and Marilyn for taking Dad in for seven months and caring for him so generously. Also, thanks to Bev Johnson for her dedication, generosity of spirit and friendship in caring for Elroy during his final months. The family pays special tribute for the Palliative Care support received from Monica Flinn and her team.