Anthony “Tony (Bones)” Slade, 52, of Shad Bay, Nova Scotia, passed peacefully at home on January 31, 2026, surrounded by love, with his devoted wife Jillanna and sons Patrick and Colin by his side.

Tony was born in Halifax and raised by Harold and Nina Slade, whom he truly considered his Mum and Dad. After high school, he attended the University College of Cape Breton (UCCB) earning a B.A. in Political Science and Philosophy, with honours, after which he went on to pursue a Masters degree at Western University. While in Ontario he worked in a group home providing leadership and support to troubled youth; the first of many opportunities Tony pursued to help others. After Ontario, Tony found himself in Yellowknife, providing support and care to troubled and un-housed men, before moving to Labrador City where he began more than fifteen years of work with the College of North Atlantic as a Student Development Officer. He dedicated himself to mentoring students and providing guidance, encouragement, and support through the Co-Operative Learning Program and Work-Integrated Learning Program. This work eventually took him to Tor Bay / St. John’s. Tony returned to Nova Scotia in 2023 and began working for Nova Scotia Community College where he continued his career helping students develop the skills they need to succeed in their careers and future endeavours. In recognition of his strong belief in students, an annual award has been established in his name at CNA, ensuring that his legacy of mentorship and generosity will continue to inspire future generations.

Tony is survived by and lovingly remembered by his wife, his first love and last love, Jillanna Brown; his two sons, Patrick (Mckenzie), and Colin (Sami); his two sisters, Nina (Sean) Reddick, and Cathie (Richard) Gudger; his aunt, Beverley Smith; his first wife and the boys’ mother, Marsha Power, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He was predeceased by his biological mother, Coline Slade; his Dad (grandfather), Harold; and Mum (grandmother, Nina (Francis); his grandmother, Georgina; his uncles, Hartley (Fernand), Arnold, Harold, and Kerry; his aunt, Andrea; and his cousin, Sheryl van’t Kruis.

Tony’s biggest passion was his two boys, whom he loved to the moon and back. In his youth, Tony was passionate about philosophical thinking, having a dark sense of humour, hard rock music, and contact sports, especially soccer and hockey. He was a natural leader with competitive drives and was very protective of his teammates, which contributed to his earned nickname of “Charlie Bone-Breaker” that his Dad affectionately shortened to “Bones”. He was also passionate about enjoying the outdoors, through hiking, fishing and hunting, He generously imparted the skills he had been taught and acquired to anyone interested, including many years as a Scouts leader, including both a Canadian Scout Jamboree and an International Jamboree.

Known for his kindness, stubborn determination, and unwavering courage in the face of life’s challenges, Tony was a loving father, husband, and friend to many. He lived a life rich with curiosity, passion, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Even in his final days, Tony’s curiosity and love of learning never faded -- he purchased a book for which he had long been searching to explore his family heritage, all while savoring precious time with his family. Tony embraced a wide range of interests and hobbies and brought enthusiasm and generosity into everything he did.

Cancer may have ravaged his body, but it did not take Tony’s spirit, will or wit. From the moment of his diagnosis, Tony was determined to make every moment count - and that he did – including marrying his beautiful Jillanna who has been by his side for every step of his illness; for better or worse – no truer words were ever spoken. Tony spent his final days exactly as he lived—surrounded by family, love, and laughter. He shared meaningful moments getting tattoos from Patrick to honor family who had passed, playing Skylanders with Colin, and sharing quiet moments with Jillanna and loved ones. His love and humor remain a lasting source of comfort and strength to those he leaves behind. Always a little mischievous and wanting to make those around him smile, he insisted that his last outfit include his favorite The Walking Dead t-shirt—giving us all a little bit of levity in the darkest moment. Oh Bones – you are loved and missed.

In keeping with his wishes, there will be no traditional funeral service. Tony had the opportunity to celebrate his life in the way he wanted, surrounded by those he loved, at a living Celebration of Life held on January 3, 2026. He was able to share memories and moments with many friends, family and colleagues and was truly grateful to all who came; showing him how much he is loved and what a positive and lasting impact he had on so many. Family will oversee the internment of his ashes at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to My Gut Feeling – The Stomach Cancer Foundation of Canada, or the Palliative Care Program of the QEII Health system, with special thanks to Dr. Anne Marie Krueger-Naug and Dr. Brenna VanTol, and their teams with the Community and In-Hospital sections of the Palliative Care Unit, and their wonderful teams of doctors and nurses, and to Dr. Stephanie Snow, his oncologist, and her team of nurses and support staff. We feel so very fortunate that Tony was under their care as they guided his fight.

Tony will be remembered for his passion for life, his generous heart, and the quiet strength he shared with his family, friends, and community.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, Halifax (902) 835-4212. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: tjtracey.com