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Joseph Roderick Gillis
July 16, 1936 – February 4, 2025
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It is with great sadness that the Gillis family announces the passing of Joseph Roderick Gillis, 88. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Joseph passed peacefully in the Dartmouth General Hospital, with his family at his side.
Joseph leaves behind his loving and devoted wife Delores, of 65 years and his sons; Rick (Kathleen), Sheldon (Eun Jung) and Stephen (Lynn).
Papa will be deeply missed by his grandchildren; Jaqueline Gillis (Cedric), Jamie Preston (Letitia), Jessica Gillis, Melissa Preston, Sarah Preston (Carson) and his 8 great grandchildren. He also had extended grandchildren; Danae Crouse and Mikayla Crouse and 7 extended great grandchildren.
Joseph was born in New Waterford, Cape Breton to the late James Gillis and Elizabeth Gillis (MacIntyre) and is predeceased by his brother Huey, sisters ; Loretta and Eileen. He is survived by his brother Charlie (Peewee) and Lester (Les).
At the age of 17 Joseph began work in the Cape Breton New Waterford coal mines for 13 years, surviving two mining accidents before he began his barbering career in Dartmouth, where he worked and owned his shop for the past 58 years. He was known as Joe “The Barber” to everyone that new him around the neighborhood, who always had a story and a joke for anyone that sat in his chair. Not to mention the bucket of lollipops that he kept stocked on his counter for any child that stopped by on their way to school to grab one.
Joseph had a strong love for music and in his earlier years, was the lead singer in a band called, Birch River Country. He loved his karaoke machine and would spend many hours having jam sessions in the barbershop with his buddies on Wednesday nights.
Joseph will be truly missed by his family and friends. May he rest in eternal peace.❤️
A Celebration of Life will be announced and held at a later date in April.
July 16 1936 February 4 2025
Death notice for the town of: Dartmouth, Province: Nova Scotia
death notice Joseph Roderick Gillis July 16 1936 February 4 2025
obituaries notice Joseph Roderick Gillis July 16 1936 February 4 2025
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Joseph Roderick Gillis July 16 1936 February 4 2025 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
