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Rita Shelton Deverell posted a condolence
Monday, June 10, 2024
Dear Debbie and the Boyd Family,
When the bereavement notice came in from FBCH it put us into a state of shock. Our deepest sympathy and continued prayers for your loss of John.
We had not planned or imagined a world without his pastoral care, principled leadership, and friendship. Our deepest sympathy to you.
Debbie, thank you and John for coming to my book launch in Halifax in 2019, where I basked in those real, genuine, warm smiles so obvious in the photographs of the two of you projected at the memorial celebration.
As recently as December’s Christmas letter, John said maybe we could get together when you make a Kingston visit. We would love to meet you there Debbie. Just say the word.
Much love, thankfulness, and sympathy,
Rita & Rex Deverell
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Rev. Canon Rod Gillis posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 5, 2024
I would like to express my condolences to John's family, friends, and colleagues. I first met John back in the nineteen seventies. It was his encouragement that got me involved in the Atlantic Seminar in Theological Education. John was also partly the inspiration for my becoming a friend of the ABF/CABF. John's commitment to ecumenism will be long remembered and cherished by those of us who new him as an ecumenical partner.
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Stephen Heard posted a condolence
Monday, June 3, 2024
I was very sorry to learn of John's passing and would like to express my deepest sympathy for his family. John was the minister of the church for much of my adult life and I got to know him through church committees and just regular interactions every Sunday. I came to greatly appreciate his caring, warmth and sense of humour over the years. He was an inspiring preacher who enabled us to grow in love and respect for all God's children, even when the path was difficult. The world is a better place for the life he lived among us.
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Gary Duncan posted a condolence
Sunday, June 2, 2024
Susan and I were so sorry to hear of John's passing. He was a true gentleman. I enjoyed his sense of humor . He will be missed by all who knew him.
Gary and Susan Duncan
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Lara Hazelton posted a condolence
Sunday, June 2, 2024
38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
- Romans 8:38-39
A donation has been made in John's memory to Bayside Camp.
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Catherine Boyd posted a condolence
Friday, May 31, 2024
Deborah, Anthony, Adam, and Alaina. I was so sorry to hear of John’s sudden passing. Many hours of my childhood were spent in John’s home with, Marg, Eric, John and his siblings. What a blessing it was for me. I remember John at that time as being the quiet “ leader of the pack” setting a good example for his siblings. John was dedicated in all of his endeavours and focused on whatever he set his mind to. It was evident that these qualities remained with him as he pursued his ministry and family life. I am sure that you all have many meaningful and happy memories to sustain you during this difficult time.
Anne, Barry, Jim, Carolyn and Florence… I’m thinking of you all. As Carolyn said… “ he was your rock” … you also have many wonderful memories of John and all that he added to your family life. Regretfully, I wasn’t able to attend John’s service but please know that you are “ all” in my thoughts today .
Sincere and loving condolences to you all.
Cathie ♥️… and Gregg Boyd
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Alan Carmichael posted a condolence
Friday, May 31, 2024
Deborah, Tony, Adam, Alaina and the wider Boyd Family.
Sincerest sympathy to all of you on the sudden loss of John.
As a youth growing up in the context of the ecclesial community of the Windsor Baptist Church, John was one of two older siblings of the Boyd family that was a mystery who lurked in the shadows. John as a person and his reputation was something I would hear about from others but there were no sightings for me that I recall save the one, the first one when he walked to the pulpit during a Sunday evening service and delivered the sermon. It's true, he really did exist and thus, first impressions were made that night and it was very good as Martha Stewart would say.
It was not until the autumn of 1987 that I began being around and irregularly interacting with John in the environment of First Baptist Church Halifax. My visits increased bit more during the next few years to the point where I rolled the dice and requested that I might do a supervised field stint at FBCH. The church graciously said yes to this new venture for them but it would not have happened without John's blessing. And so what began slowly here and there in 1987 to the intensity of 1992-1993, John was an important player in my ministry formation and orientation that lingers still. Thank you John.
However, I must say that the most touching thing John did for me was on the evening of December 5, 2021 just a few hours after my wife's death. It had been some time that we interacted in any way with each other and so John had not been in my inner circle(s) so to speak. But somehow he found out what had just happened and was the very first person to message me with his most touching condolences as he recalled Joan's involvement and service at FBC some 30 ish years ago. With a gracious heart, John remembered the little things. And these are but two qualities (his graciousness and attention to detail) that were modeled with ease to me it seemed over the years and some of what I ponder in these difficult days for the Boyd family and all who were privileged to both work and play with him. Preacher and teacher extraordinaire - you are and will be missed. Prayers and praise will be offered at the place of rest with each passing visit.
Rest eternal grant into John, O Lord, and let light perpetual shine upon him. Amen.
Memory eternal.
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Alana Foster posted a condolence
Friday, May 31, 2024
I worked with and for John for more than 20 years. He was a generous and kind person to work for, always encouraging and supportive.
Through him I met his family and enjoyed many fun times with them and other staff.
I am truly sorry that he has left this world and offer sincere sympathy to Debbie, Tony, Adam and Alaina, and their spouses.
I will be with you in spirit today and pray for God's strength and grace for you all.
Alana F.
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Bruce Dodge posted a condolence
Friday, May 31, 2024
Deepest condolences from Karen and I. The world is a better place for having had John in it. His ever present smile, positive outlook and sense of acceptance were, and will continue to be an exemplar of what we all can be.
We miss you John.
Karen and Bruce Dodge
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Melodee Boyd posted a condolence
Friday, May 31, 2024
Sincere sympathy to the entire Boyd Family at this sad time.Growing up in Windsor and attending the Windsor United Baptist Church I knew John and family .He certainly found his calling in ministry.I attended First Baptist Church occasionally while living in Halifax and always enjoyed the services there.Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers .John was a wonderful person admired and loved by so many people.
Melodee Boyd
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Laurence DeWolfe posted a condolence
Friday, May 31, 2024
I’m giving thanks today for John’s ministry and friendship. I remember his smile and laugh most of all. Words a friend shared with me today are so apt. John was “a theologian with a pastoral heart.” I hold his family and all who loved John in my prayers.
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Peggy Gorman posted a condolence
Friday, May 31, 2024
Dear Anne and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I did not know John but through Anne I knew how much he was loved both as a minister and as a family member. To his wife Debbie and children I offer condolences. As you grieve May your tears one day be turned to joy in remembering
Peggy Gorman
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Elizabeth Skelhorn posted a condolence
Friday, May 31, 2024
Dear family
Many years connected to the Boyd families. Deep condolences with the loss of John. Blessings
Elizabeth Skelhorn
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Bonnie Boyd Sutherland posted a condolence
Thursday, May 30, 2024
I. Was so sorry to hear about John……he was one of the best men I knew. You will be missed ……..Bonnie Boyd…
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Karen MacDonald posted a condolence
Thursday, May 30, 2024
Dear Friends in the Boyd Family,
We were shocked and saddened to learn of John's sudden passing. Our friendship with the Boyd family goes back many years beginning with Dale and John being brought up down the road from each other; followed by both of our families involvement in the Windsor Baptist Church. John, Mike and Anne were all involved in youth groups with us. The memories of times spent together in our teen years, especially in church related youth events, and later visits as young adults, will be remembered and treasured. We plan to share in the funeral service by watching the livestream and our thoughts will be with your family. Sending sincere sympathy. With love Karen & Dale MacDonald
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Liz Cormier (Wood) posted a condolence
Thursday, May 30, 2024
I was saddened to hear of John passing on to be with our Heavenly Father. I had the pleasure of meeting John when he became Senior Minister at First Baptist Church in Amherst. He was an inspiration to all he encountered and a gifted speaker. I so enjoyed having Adam in my kindergarten program which I had at the church. The world has lost a dedicated, caring person. I send my heartfelt condolences to Debbie and all of his family. Liz Cormier (Wood)
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John Bartol posted a condolence
Thursday, May 30, 2024
I want to extend sincere sympathy to the Boyd family
over the loss of Husband, Father, Brother, Grandfather,
Friend. May you all find comfort and hope from the promises of God's Word.
Jesus said, "My grace is sufficient for you" (2 Cor. 12:9)." IS sufficient", present tense, whenever you need it most. John Bartol
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Trudy Vickers posted a condolence
Thursday, May 30, 2024
Debbie and family
Where do I begin.....John was like a member of our family when living in Mahone Bay. He would stop in on his way home, at lunch time of course, to see what mom was making. If he liked it he would pull up a chair and stay for lunch.
He was wonderful with our youth group at church, he always had stories to share. He was a wonderful neighbor and loved by so many.
Debbie please know that mom, Reta, is thinking of you at this time and she is keeping you and your family in her prayers.
May God bless you and keep you and guide you.
Thinking of you,
Trudy & Eldon Vickers
and
Reta Russell
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Debbie (DeWolfe) and Phillip Scott posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
To all of the Boyd family,
Sending kind thoughts and deepest sympathy to all of John's family. I remember our youth group at church doing the evening service one Sunday evening at Windsor Baptist Church. John was one of the members who was selected to deliver a message. After he delivered his message, I remember thinking he would make a great minister and should go into the ministry. I am sure it was already in his plans. May the prayers, shared memories, kind words and thoughts of family and friends bring you comfort at this difficult time. Cherish your memories.
Sincerely,
Debbie (DeWolfe) & Phillip Scott and David DeWolfe
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Carolyn Armstrong uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
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My favourite picture of my brother John and myself
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Nancy Reid posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
Dear Mattie:
So sorry to hear about the passing of your Stepson Rev. John Boyd. My condolences to you and your family. Love Nancy Reid.
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Doug & June MacEachern posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
Our deep sympathy to Debbie & family as we give thanks for John's life and witness. His sense of the Gospel which led to his work at the denomination, ecumenical, and interfaith levels have made a mark. His love for the Atlantic Seminar in Theological Education throughout his ministry .... above all his love and devotion to and for family is to be treasured. May the faith which led his life be yours in the days ahead.
God ever bless,
Doug & June MacEachern
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Kathy Swimm posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
Our hearts were sadden about Rev. John's passing. As we sat down and thought of all the times we spend together when he was with us at Northwest Church and then after he left. He baptized me , married me and dedicated our son Kristian. He was a great man ,if you needed him he was there. Debbie & family we are so very sorry and sadden for your loss of John , he was one in a million . Our condolences to you and your family , knowing you will see him again holes dear to us all. Kevin & Kathy Swimm & Family
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JD Shore posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
When I first heard the news of John's passing, the words that came out of my mouth was "Why God, he is not finished here:"
John was so courageous !
He answered the call and said
"no, we can and must do better".
His courage came at a cost.
Eventually ,
it open doors to new possibilities
and for justice
John was, indeed, a pioneer
and a good and faithful servant
Gods love rain over his family during this time of great loss and grief
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Barrie MacFarlane posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Shocked and saddened to read of John's padding. During his time in Amherst,my mother served on the church Board of Deacons. She often spoke fondly of John ,referring to his leadership and the lives he touched.
I was grateful to be a supervisor at Children's Aid while John served on the Board of Directors.
The friendship was deepened even more when John married my son Andrew and daughter in law,Leigh Ann.
John's life was one of exemplary service and Christian love.
Blessings to Debbie and family.
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Jean Matthews posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
My deepest sympathy, Debbie, to you and family.
Jean Matthews
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Rev. Charles Thompson posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Debbie and family:
For a precious period of time in our college years both in the University and Divinity College John and I were the best of friends. I enjoyed his wit, respected his intellect and experienced the building of lasting friendships that were of great value to my life and career as he introduced me to his many friends and associates. I will always remember fondly his family, the St. Lucy Society, Ping-Pong Tournaments,The University Chaplains Conferences in Truro, week-ends at Dr. Cherry's cottage and so many wonderful times at Manning Memorial Chapel. I appreciated his skillful preaching. I learned a lot from him in a very short period of time. We were brothers for a period, we laughed, we talked, we studied, we argued, frequently about History, politics, theology and life and enjoyed every moment of it especially the inner-college debates. It was a great time and remembered with appreciation and thankfulness. The period was short and was ended by the old enemies of time, distance and circumstance. But I am glad that it was and is a treasured experience. On behalf of my wife Linda and our family we express our condolences and pray God's blessings upon all of you as you enter this new phase of your life as a family. (Psalm 46:1)
Charlie and Linda Thompson
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Timothy McFarland posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Working with John in the mid-1990s to the early 2000s meant that we could be invited to John and Debbie's cottage at Lake Mush-a-Mush in the summer. Their hospitality was wonderful, and the food and games brought cheer to all.
John had a good sense of humour whether it was within the context of our shared work at First Baptist Church Halifax or during a relaxing social event at his cottage.
His legacy of faithfulness, compassion and diligence to God's love will continue onward in the lives of those he leaves behind.
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Kim Bland (Dauphinee) posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
To the Boyd family, so sorry to hear that John has passed away. Sending sincere
Condolences to all the family . Kim Bland
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Rev. Dr. Morley & Joy Shaw posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Debbie and family: Sending our Christian love and sympathy to you and the family on the loss of John. Although our faith assures us of God's great love and compassion during these times of loss, there is still a sense of loss until we are together again.
Your many good memories will enable you to live with this great loss.
Morley & Joy
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Barrie Wile posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Barry and Boyd family sorry for the loss of your brother.
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Lori Anne Smith Webb posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Dear Debbie and family,
I am so deeply saddened about John's passing. He was a true treasure to the family, He always knew what to say and his positive outlook was contagious! The love, kindness, and compassion he showed so many will never be forgotten!
Hugs to you all!
Lori Anne, Mike, and Aaron
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Wendy Oliver posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Dear Anne, I'm sending a big hug to you as I finish reading John's obituary.
Your brother certainly gave alot to alot of people.
Wendy Oliver
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Susan Emmerson Bannon posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
To all the Boyd family,
I was so sorry to read of Rev Boyd's passing in today's paper. Although I didn't know him well, he was there for me when I got married and when we said goodbye to our father. I always enjoyed our conversations - he was kind, thoughtful, patient and incredibly funny. I recall him saying that he and his family liked to visit churches of other faiths so that they could learn about them and understand their differences; I also remember friends telling me how they started going to the church because of his commitment to inclusion of all kinds, and the welcoming nature of the congregation he led. In a world where we don't always try understand other people's differences, he certainly did and we all learned something from his example. He was a man who garnished alot of respect and one you just couldn't help liking alot!
My sincerest sympathies to you all.
Susan (Emmerson) Bannon
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David MacKinnon posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
I was deeply saddened to learn of John’s death. I had the privilege of serving with him on the Acadia University Board of Governors. His commitment to the University was readily apparent in the way he participated at Board meetings and his support for faculty and staff was equally obvious. I thoroughly enjoyed our conversations. Please accept my deepest condolences on his death.
David MacKinnon, Professor Emeritus, Acadia University
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Cynthia DeMont posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
To the Boyd Family - Condolences to the family, so sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Cindy (Swinamer) & Paul DeMont
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Cynthia Pilichos posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
I was very saddened to read of Rev. John Boyd's sudden death. John was such a wonderful presence in the Christian and interfaith community of Halifax, leading his First Baptist faith community in the embrace of God's love for all. No matter one's faith or expression of it, or no faith at all, John led by example. He will be sorely missed. Deepest sympathies, kind thoughts, and sincere prayers to John's family, colleagues, and friends.
Cynthia Pilichos (Cathedral Church of All Saints, Halifax - Anglican).
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Cheryl Barker posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Carolyn and Bill, sending Condolences to you and your Family.
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Katherine MacPherson posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
The MacPherson family sends heartfelt condolences to John's family. His presence and spiritual leadership will be missed by so many. We send prayers and loving thoughts during this time of great sorrow and grief.
Katherine and Neal
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Dave Ogilvie posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
I cherish good memories of times shared with John as a colleague in the ABF. And I will always be indebted to him for his pastoral leadership and courage in showing us how to make our congregations more equitable and inclusive, especially of those who identify as 2SLGBTQ+. I wish him and his family God's peace.
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Ritchie Boyd posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Deepest sympathy to John's family.
I always admired John for his beliefs,courage and energy. Unfortunately I will not be able to attend his funeral due to my own medical problem but I sure will be thinking of him and his family
Ritchie Boyd second cousin.
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Leslie Smith posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
A life purposely lived. Our condolences to all the family
Chook & Elizabeth Smith
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Mary Stevens posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
To all of John's family, my sincerest sympathy on your loss. John was a Grade XII classmate of mine and his brother, Michael, became a good friend and our Minister for a number of years at St. Andrew's in Hantsport. Sadly we lost both of them too young.
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Margaret MacDonald posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Sincere sympathy to the Boyd family during this sad time of deep loss. John and I shared classes in Junior High and Acadia.John's fine qualities have shown through in his life and ministry. May fond memories of happy family times bring you comfort.
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Beth & Doug Allan posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Debbie & Family
Deepest condolences on the sudden loss of John. He always said I was still the oldest even though we were the same age for a month each year.We had the special honour of having John marry us back in 1998 which was a special pleasure . He will be missed but always remembered
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Hsrvey Gilmour posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Rest in peace John. I recall so many contributions you made to the life and work of Acadia University especially as a member lf the Board of Governors during challenging times.
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Brenda Radzijewski posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
My deepest sympathy to Rev. John's family and friends. I grew up in Windsor and was blessed to have his sister Anne as my friend and classmate. Thinking of the entire family and especially Anne. May he rest in peace.
Brenda Stoddard Radzijewski
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Derrick Marshall posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
John was instrumental in convincing First Baptist Church Amherst to employ me as a student minister in 1988, which confirmed my vocation. Forever grateful! My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time! May he rest in peace and rise in glory. - Rev'd Dr. Derrick Marshall, CD.
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Dean and Debbie Greenough posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Sending our most heartfelt condolences to you all on Johns sudden passing. Hugs to all ,
Dean and Debbie xo
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Helen Neil posted a condolence
Monday, May 27, 2024
Dear Maddie so sorry to read of your stepson’s passing ! His life was certainly one of dedication from what I read . Knowing his late father and you has been a pleasure - such beautiful people is a blessing ! Sincere sympathy to all and please remember me to the nurse daughter of Eric .Sincerely with hugs Helen Neil
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Rev. Dr. Frank and Donna Guinta Jr. posted a condolence
Monday, May 27, 2024
Debbie and family:
It is with deep sadness hearing the loss of John. He was a great Acadia Divinity School colleague, a challenging peer within the family of Atlantic Baptist Ministries and an amazing advocate in the social Justice causes of the Atlantic Region. He will be missed. Debbie and Family Please accept our heat felt condolences.
Frank and Donna Guinta
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Byron Corkum posted a condolence
Monday, May 27, 2024
Over the years John was a good friend and fellow clergy. We were neighbouring clergy in Mahone Bay and Bridgewater and later I had the honour to follow him as Senior Ministrr at Amherst. Debbie gave John’s a depth that entiched his life . Fatherhood further expanded his joy. Sandy and I wish the family peace, love and God’s presence.
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Dan Boyd posted a condolence
Monday, May 27, 2024
Debbie, Barry, Carolyn, Florence, Anne, and Jim:
Memories of John go way back to when he babysat for us on Tonge Hill in the mid 60’s. Mum and Dad always remember when Krista before she even went to school,telling them how much she liked that man because he sat on the grass and picked flowers with her.
Personally, I always remember how gregarious John was whenever I ran into him even though it was not that often. He was kinda enough to marry Nancy and I 31 years ago and then returned to Tonge Hill to marry our daughter Allison in the summer of 2019.
Many wonderful memories and we share in your heartache at this time. God Bless. Lawrence,Janet, Dan, Carol, Krista and families.
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Monday, May 27, 2024
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