Obituary of John Patrick Little

With his loving family by his side, John Patrick Little, 87, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2023 at the Halifax Infirmary. Born in Terence Bay in 1936 to the late James and Mary (Drew) Little, John spent his early years hunting and fishing with friends. He loved being at the wharf when the lobster boats came in and would help fix the traps or prepare the bait, assisting in any way he could. From a young age he demonstrated his commitment to family by supporting his mother who owned a local general store and gas pump in the community. Whether it was stocking the store, running daily errands or taking her to appointments, John was always there to help. He played baseball (a Blue Jays fan) and hockey. He loved chauffeuring his teammates to games in his mother’s ton truck (likely to ensure they were punctual and arrived on time)! He married his wife, Joyce (Slaunwhite) in 1954, with whom he recently celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary. They raised four children: Lee, Gail, Cathy and Cheryl. John worked in the fishing industry and was also a truck driver. He had a general love for driving, often known for his “lead foot”. Neighbours would say, “here comes, there goes, Johnny Little”! He loved to drive family members to appointments or events they needed to attend and even drove members of the community to the grocery store. He loved to drive so much that, after retiring, he drove trucks back and forth to New Brunswick for Hoyt’s Moving and Storage. John was a very determined man who faced challenges head-on. He was strong-willed and had an incredible work ethic. Always ready to help on a whim, John was most dependable and he would outwork men 20 years his junior. They would have to take tools out of his hands and beg him to go home, because they were all tired, but John would just keep working! This work ethic also extended to his home life, taking great pride in his pristine yard and immaculately clean vehicle. He was a man of faith who regularly attended mass at Star of the Sea Church and served on the men’s council for many years. His gentle manner attracted both children and animals. He and his wife enjoyed weekly card games with best friends, Bernard and Eileen Drew, as well as many community events with friends and family of all ages. Above all else, John was a family man who loved nothing more than being surrounded by his family. The highlights of his year were the annual “Little” family cottage weekend in Mactaquac, New Brunswick, and when his entire family would gather at their home on Boxing Day to celebrate Christmas together. And he always looked forward to fall hunting trips (a tradition that began with his mother and father) with a close group of friends and family. John adored and continually supported his grandchildren by attending all sporting events, theatre and graduations. As the family continued to grow, he extended this adoration and support to his great-grandchildren. He was a beacon to his family, and his presence in their lives will be deeply missed. They find comfort in knowing their incredible memories made with this truly amazing man will live on in their hearts forever. John was the best secret keeper EVER! He is survived by his wife, Joyce; son, Lee (Heather Christianson) Little; and daughters, Gail (Barry) Hoyt, Cathy (Philip) Major and Cheryl (Ken McCarthy) Little; seven grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, James and Mary; brother, (Cecil); sisters, (Mary, Winnie and Lull); and great-grandson, Elijah. The family sincerely thanks his family doctor, Dr. Harris Crooks, along with the VON and Home Care services for the care they provided John over the past six years. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Church, 3709 Prospect Road, Shad Bay. Cremation has been entrusted to T. J. Tracey Cremation & Burial Specialists, Halifax (902)835-4212. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.tjtracey.com.