Jones Family Funeral Centre & Cremation Services

09/30/2025

09/25/2025

We take this opportunity to remember.

A year ago today, on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, William Brown, of Amherst, NS, passed away at his residence. Getting through the first year is hard, and each of these first occasions you once shared may bring up the sadness of living without your loved one. On this difficult anniversary, we at Jones Family Funeral Centre, wish to extend our sympathies, and our hope for his family, as they move forward in their journey.

09/22/2025

It is with deep sadness we announce the sudden passing of Nadine Gilbert, age 79, of Amherst, NS. Nadine passed away at her home in Cape Tormentine on Friday, September 19, 2025 with her husband by her side.

Born in Amherst, she was a daughter of Jean (Arseneault) Stanley and the late Albert Stanley.

Nadine was a very caring and fun loving lady who devoted her time to her husband and her family. She worked for many years at K-Mart in Amherst and enjoyed all her co-workers. She loved hunting for glass on the beach, going for drives with her husband, playing cards with her friends and family, spending time with her grand kids, playing bingo, and sharing her opinion.

In addition to her mother, she will be dearly missed by her husband of 60 years, Stephen, Cape Tormentine, Tony (Elizabeth "Biz"), Athol, NS; special son-in-law Mike (Janet Porter) Brine, Brookdale, NS; grandchildren, Katlyn (Steve) Arnoldin, Mikey (Sydney) Brine, Josh (Krystine) Hooton, Wesley (Krista) Brine; great grandkids Taqran and Thia; siblings Richard, Glen, Randy and Annie.

She was predeceased by her father, her daughters Holly Gilbert and Sam Gilbert; sister Melinda Berry.

Arrangements are under the care and supervision of Jones Family Funeral Centre, 70 Church Street, Amherst, NS (902-667-8777), where a family gathering was held, followed by cremation. She will be interred in the Athol Cemetery at a later date.

Donations in Nadine's memory may be made to the Asthma Society, or the Canadian Diabetes Association.

Sharing of memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting the online memorial at www.jonesfamilyfuneralcentre.ca or through the Jones Family Funeral Centre page.

09/17/2025

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Heather Ann Freeman, age 67, of Amherst, NS. Heather passed away at the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre on Sunday, September 14th, 2025.

Born in Amherst, she was a daughter of Gerald Freeman and the late Carolyn (nee Hayward) Freeman.

Heather will be dearly missed by her partner, Gregory Cruickshank, Amherst; father, Gerald Freeman, Amherst; sisters; Janet (Steve) Mittl of Essex Junction, Vermont, and Pamela (Glenn) Brown of Agawam, Mass. as well as a nephew, Keenan Mittl and a niece, Paige Mittl both of Salt Lake City, Utah.

Heather spent her childhood years on the family farm, Elmport Farm, in West Amherst and at the age of 11 moved with her family to the United States. She received a Master of Science in Psychology from Springfield College and then a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Westfield State University. Heather’s career focused on Accounting and Logistics. In October of 2011 she returned to Amherst to help her father. Heather enjoyed reading mystery novels, gardening, clamming and fishing at Moose River and helping her father with the Amherst Farmers Market.

Heather was predeceased by her mother Carolyn.

Arrangements are under the care and supervision of Jones Family Funeral Centre, 70 Church Street, Amherst, NS (902-667-8777), where cremation has taken place. There will be no services at this time.

Donations in Heather's memory may be made to Maggies Place Cumberland or After the School Bell Food Program - Amherst.

Sharing of memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting the online memorial at www.jonesfamilyfuneralcentre.ca or through the Jones Family Funeral Centre page.

09/11/2025

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Mark Jeffery Davis, age 59, of Amherst, Nova Scotia. Mark passed away at the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre on Wednesday, September 10th, 2025.

Born in Bayridges, ON, he was a son of Doris (Melanson) Davis of Amherst and the late Gordon "Smokey" Davis.

Mark worked at Polly Cello as a machinist, retiring recently. He loved music and performed in several different bands with his brothers and sister in his younger years. He was a quiet gentle hearted man who thought the world of his kids.

Mark will be deeply missed by his mother Doris, Amherst, daughter Molly and son Liam (Sarah) and granddaughter Riley; sister Debbie Davis, Amherst; brothers Brian (Shelley), Amherst and Dwain (Sheryl), River Hebert; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Besides his father, he was predeceased by brothers Terrance and Glenn.

Arrangements are under the care and supervision of Jones Family Funeral Centre, 70 Church Street, Amherst, NS (902-667-8777), where cremation has taken place. Burial in the Minudie Cemetery will take place at a later date.

Donations in Mark's memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

Sharing of memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting the online memorial at www.jonesfamilyfuneralcentre.ca or through the Jones Family Funeral Centre page.

09/10/2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Gerald "Jerry" Albert Randall, 82, of Amherst, NS, on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre with his loving family by his side.

Born in 1943 at the Ideal Maternity Orphanage in East Chester, Nova Scotia, known at the time as the home of the "Butterbox Babies". Gerald survived a difficult beginning and was lovingly adopted by Sinclair and Alice Randall. He always carried with him the knowledge that he was chosen, and he lived his life with determination, resilience, and a dreamer's heart.

Gerald's career path was as varied as it was remarkable. He began as an air traffic controller with the Royal Canadian Air Force, then followed his passions as a folk singer, journalist, and photographer. He also became a dedicated dog breeder, raising and showing champion Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Later, he served as a Correctional Officer at Dorchester Penitentiary and Westmorland Institution until his retirement.

Even after retiring, Gerald continued to share his voice and talents with his community. He wrote regularly for the local newspaper, published a book on the history of the Canadian prison system, and took on the unique role of Town Crier for Amherst and surrounding municipalities; a position that allowed him to combine his love of tradition, history, and performance.

Above all, Gerald was devoted to his wife, Vicki, the love of his life and his constant partner for nearly six decades. Through every chapter, from music and dogs to books and travel, she was at his side. In later years, when his health declined and he lost his eyesight, Vicki became his daily source of joy, reading to him every night and helping him stay connected to the stories and songs he loved.

Gerald's greatest pride was his family. He shared his love of horses with his son, his delight in Walt Disney world with his daughter, and his dreams with his grandchildren. They were the living proof of his dreams coming true.

Despite challenges, Gerald never lost his humor or his zest for life. He kept Irish folk music playing with the help of "Hey Google"; and he told his stories with wit and flair.

Jerry will be dearly missed by his wife Vicki (Sorge), Amherst; son Michael (Kim Rayworth), Shediac, NB, their children Benjamin Randall, Miriam Landry and Genevieve Landry; daughter, Kristina Randall (Danny Dormer), Upper Coverdale, NB, and her children Emma and Brady Coughlan.

He was predeceased by his parents.

Arrangements are under the care and supervision of Jones Family Funeral Centre, 70 Church Street, Amherst, NS (902-667-8777) from where an Afternoon of Remembrance will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 2 PM until 4 PM. Interment will take place in the Christ Church Cemetery at a later date.

Donations in Jerry's memory may be made to the VON, the Amherst Food Bank, or the charity of your choice.

Sharing of memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting the online memorial at www.jonesfamilyfuneralcentre.ca or through the Jones Family Funeral Centre page.

09/10/2025

It is with deep sorrow we announce the passing of our baby boy Carter Jacob Crandall who was born on July 3, and passed on September 9, 2025.

We your parents, Jacob Crandall and Alyssa Hurley, our family of pets, Myla and Sadie; as well as your grandparents Amanda and Doug Hurley and Trina and Terry Crandall will forever remember our time with you.

We write this with tear filled eyes and heavy broken hearts. Carter wasn't able to come home with us the way we wanted him to. Carter was a true fighter, he fought his way through everything in 69 days and he fought his hardest till the very end. We loved our short time with you, checking on you to make sure you were okay or just to give you hand hugs through the incubator windows to calm you down.

During our stay at the NICU we had 40 loving caring nurses who became family to us and helped us through this and provided 24/7 care to Carter and for that we are forever grateful. Carter always had his own nurse sitting outside his room because he was a handful at times.

We were very blessed to lay in bed and cuddle him, watching movies and soaking up every second with him. Carter took his last breath snuggled in bed between mommy and daddy.

This isn’t goodbye it’s see you later, we love you so much Carter thank you for giving us this time.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Jones Family Funeral Centre, Amherst, NS (902-667-8777), where cremation has taken place. Carter will be returning home with his family.

Sharing memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting Carter’s online memorial at www.jonesfamilyfuneralcentre.ca or through the Jones Family Funeral Centre page.

09/09/2025

We take this opportunity to remember.

A year ago today, on Monday, September 9, 2024, Donna Ripley, of Amherst, NS, passed away at her residence. Getting through the first year is hard, and each of these first occasions you once shared may bring up the sadness of living without your loved one. On this difficult anniversary, we at Jones Family Funeral Centre, wish to extend our sympathies, and our hope for her family, as they move forward in their journey.�

08/31/2025

Melbourne "Mel" Ripley
1931 - 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Melbourne John Ripley, 93, of Warren, NS, on Friday, August 29, 2025 at the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre. Born in Truemanville, Melbourne was a son of the late Allison and Weselean (Goodwin) Ripley.

Mel had been a proud and dedicated member of the Truemanville Volunteer Fire Department since it's inception, he himself having purchased their first Fire Truck in 1971. He had a tradition of going to the fire hall every morning to spend time with "the boys" and will be missed. He was strong and independent, living on his own ever since his mother passed right up until his own passing at 93.

Mel had worked for many years as a Heavy Equipment Operator for Carl Porter as well as with the Department of Highways.

He enjoyed traveling to Ontario, camping, hunting, fishing and being outdoors. He was an avid dancer and often attended BINGO with his mother many years ago. Mel was always there to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He had been an active member of the Northumberland Radio Club and the Cumberland Snowmobile Club.

Mel is survived by his brother, Albion (Joy), Truemanville; his sisters Mary Mack of Truemanville, Sarah (Fred) Arsenault of Truemanville, Janey Arsenault, Amherst, Marjorie Brown, Truemanville, Helena Brine (David Paugh), Amherst; sisters-in-law Bernice Ripley, Keswick Ridge, NB, Rose Ripley, Amherst, as well as many dear nieces and nephews, extended family members and friends.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers Melvin (twin), Robert (late Doris), William, Allison (late Shirley), Coates, and Joe; sisters, Elda (late Larry) Leadbetter, Flora (late Wilfred) Caissie, and Barbara (late Bruce) Hope.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the paramedics who came to the home, to the emergency staff and the staff of the Medical Unit of the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre, as well as to Dr. P and Dr. Ferguson for their compassion and care.

Arrangements are under the care and supervision of Jones Family Funeral Centre, 70 Church Street, Amherst, NS (902-667-8777) from where there will be a time of visitation on Friday, September 5, 2025 from 1-4 pm. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Saturday at 2 pm with burial to follow in the Truemanville Cemetery. All are invited to the Truemanville Fire Hall/Community Centre for a reception and a time to share memories of Mel.

Donations in his memory may be made to the Truemanville Volunteer Fire Department or a charity of the donor's choice.

Sharing of memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting the online memorial at www.jonesfamilyfuneralcentre.ca or through the Jones Family Funeral Centre page.

08/29/2025

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of our mother Susan Mary McNairn, age 86, of River Hebert, Nova Scotia. Mom passed away at the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre on Wednesday, August 27th, 2025 while surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Toronto, she was the daughter of the late John and Hazel (Hewitt) Pearson. Sue was a teacher for many years in River Hebert and Mississauga. She was a volunteer for the Peel Board of Education, the Occasional Teachers Union, the Hillside Cemetery, the Dr. Cochrane Memorial Clinic in River Hebert, the Canadian Cancer Society, the Arthritis Society and the Heart and Stroke Foundation. She was very active in the River Hebert United Church, acting as a member of the UCW, a teacher with the Sunday school and many other committees.

Sue will be dearly missed by her husband Earle; children Michael (Lynn), Nobleton, ON, Laurie Campbell (Tom), Minett, ON, Mark (Lynda) Brechin, ON, David (Erin), Amherst, NS, grandchildren Katie, Samantha, John, Monica, Will and Ashlyn.

She was predeceased by her brother Douglas Pearson.

The family would like to thank Dr. Short, Amy Thurston and all of the palliative care team as well as Eric and Lola Melanson and Debbie and Anthony Boudreau whose support and friendship over the years meant so much to Sue. A special thank-you also to Scott McNairn who provided so much help and comfort to both Sue and Earle over the years.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Jones Family Funeral Centre, 70 Church Street, Amherst, NS where an afternoon of remembrance will be held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 from 2pm until 4pm. A family only committal service will take place in the Hillside Cemetery, River Hebert.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cumberland Hospice or the Canadian Cancer Society.

Sharing of memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting the online memorial at www.jonesfamilyfuneralcentre.ca or through Jones Family Funeral Centre page.

08/28/2025

We take this opportunity to remember.

A year ago today, on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, Ryan Mitton, of Amherst, NS, passed away at the Halifax Infirmary. The happiness experienced with Ryan belongs to you forever. Hold on to those rich memories, and give thanks for the life of the person you’ve lost. On this difficult anniversary, we at Jones Family Funeral Centre wish to extend our sympathies, and our hope for his family, as they move forward in their journey.

08/25/2025

We take this opportunity to remember.

A year ago today, on Sunday, August 25, 2024, Lester MacMaster, of Amherst, NS, passed away. Creating a positive ritual, either alone or shared with others, can give support, healing and meaning to the anniversary of someone’s passing. On this difficult anniversary, we at Jones Family Funeral Centre, wish to extend our sympathies, and our hope for his family, as they move forward in their journey.