Obituary of Murray Garrison

William Murray Garrison: A Life Full of Laughter, Love, and Lobster It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of William Murray Garrison, a beloved father, partner, and friend, who left us at the age of 63. He passed away peacefully in his family home in Peggy's Cove on December 3rd surrounded by loved ones. Murray's journey through life was as adventurous as a day out on the unpredictable waters, to which he was truly drawn and where he wanted to be even from an early age. Born and raised in Halifax, Murray was the heart and soul of a family deeply rooted in love and shared history. He was the cherished son of Helen and Bill Garrison, and a beloved brother to Lea. His life was further enriched by the close bonds he shared with his brother, Eric Garrison (Margo), and his sister, Joanne Letts (Freddy), his late sister, Elaine Mackay, along with his nephews and nieces: Patrick, Michael, Sherry, Gina, Meagan, and Andrew. Murray's grandmother, Nelly, with her enduring love of the serene beauty of Peggy's Cove, provided him with the foundation and place in the community, as well as a sense of belonging that he treasured throughout his life. Of the things Murray was most proud of, was the rich and fulfilling role he played as a father to his three beloved children, Samantha, Aonghus (Hilary), and Owen. His love for them was boundless as the ocean, and his heart swelled with pride at every step of their journey. To be sure, whenever someone encountered Murray, they would leave fully updated on the most recent accomplishments of his children. He was so happy to share that there were times when people unknown to them would come up and pass along congratulations. Murray watched with immense pride as Owen grew into a remarkable young man, embodying the qualities that he himself held dear — strength, kindness, and a deep sense of responsibility. Owen's journey into adulthood was a source of great joy for Murray, who saw in his son the best of what the future could hold. Owen’s achievements, character, and the very person he became were reflections of Murray’s guiding influence and unwavering support. Samantha, Murray's daughter, held a special place in his heart as Daddy's little girl. No matter how much time passed, the bond they shared remained timeless — a beautiful blend of affection, understanding, and mutual admiration. Samantha's successes, her joys, and even her challenges were shared moments that Murray treasured deeply. In her, he saw not just the child he raised, but the remarkable woman she had become, carrying forward the values and love he had instilled in her. Among his many dreams as a father, one held a special place in his heart — the wish that his son Aonghus would become the fifth-generation steward of the cherished Garrison homestead in Peggy's Cove. This dream was not just about preserving a family legacy; it was a testament to Murray's deep feelings about this fishing village and his desire to pass on this heritage of love, resilience, and connection to the land and sea that had shaped his own life. Murray was overwhelmed with an indescribable sense of joy and fulfillment as he watched Aonghus step into this role. It represented not just a dream come true but also the continuation of a deeply cherished family tradition. Witnessing Aonghus' success in becoming an HRM firefighter stood as a pinnacle of his joys, an appreciation of his son's dedication to community and a profound source of pride for him. His loving partner, Pam Wells (sons Cody & Dylan) was a constant presence, standing steadfastly by his side through the ebbs and flows of his health challenges. Her unwavering strength, boundless care, and compassionate heart were not just a source of comfort, but a beacon of light in his life, guiding him through the toughest of times. Together, they built a life filled with shared moments, whether in quiet companionship at home or in the joyful clamor of family gatherings. Together, they navigated life's complexities, celebrating its joys and facing its challenges with a united front. In Pam, Murray found not just a partner, but a true companion, someone who stood with him in sunshine and in storm. Murray's life was a tapestry woven with threads of joy, hard work, and endless tales. As a skilled fisherman and a savvy car salesman, he knew the art of a good catch, be it in the ocean or on the sales floor. His laughter was as infectious as his stories were captivating. Eric Morash’s “loft” in Peggy’s Cove was more than just a haven for Murray; it was a sanctuary of camaraderie and joy. Within its walls, he and a circle of close friends spent countless hours, filling the space with laughter and memories that echoed the rhythms of the sea. The lobster fishing seasons aboard the boat were particularly special to Murray. These expeditions were not just about the catch; they were about the bond shared between friends, the stories exchanged over the roar of the ocean, and the quiet understanding that comes from years of shared experiences. Murray, along with the rest of the fishermen in neighboring villages, navigated the waters with a sense of purpose and camaraderie, creating a trove of memories against the backdrop of the Atlantic. These moments at sea, coupled with the warm gatherings in the loft, painted a picture of a life rich in friendship and a deep connection to the maritime lifestyle. Murray’s time spent with all of the fisherman during the lobster seasons was a testament to the strong bonds he formed through shared adventures and enduring friendships. He was a man who couldn't sit still, puttering was his pastime, always tinkering on his property and lending a hand wherever it was needed. His love for his community was as deep as his passion for the sea, and he knew everyone's story, often adding his own witty twist to them. Murray's life, marked by laughter and love, touched many hearts. His stories, his generous spirit, and his infectious smile will forever echo in the lives of those he loved and those who loved him. The children, Samantha, Aonghus, and Owen, wish to extend their heartfelt thanks to their mothers, Karren Fader and Keri Garrison. On behalf of their father, they express deep gratitude for all the love and support these remarkable women have provided over the years. Their presence and contributions to Murray's life have been invaluable and deeply appreciated. We would like to thank Dr Jill Robertson Family Med; Dr Matthew Rigby ENT; Dr Nathan Lamond, Medical Oncology; and Dr Mal Rajaraman Radiation Oncology & staff; and his Palliative Care Team for their care and support. Donations may be made to Thyroid Cancer Care Nova Scotia. A Church Service and interment will be held at St. Peter's Church in Hackett’s Cove on November 16th at 11:00 am. This will be followed by a Celebration of Life at the Whale's Cookout building (8291 Peggy's Cove Rd) from 1:00 to 6:00 pm. The timing is intentionally set to allow fishermen to look their traps and attend, honoring Murray's deep respect for the fishing community. The event is 'come as you are', reflecting Murray's welcoming and inclusive spirit. All are welcome to join and share in remembering a life full of laughter, love, and, of course, lobster. His legacy will continue to ripple through the lives of all who knew him, and his memory will be cherished in the stories and laughter shared in his honour.