CHRISTENSSEN, GEOFFREY (GEOFF) DAVID

October 4th, 1945 – February 9th ,2025  

With great sadness Wendy, his beloved wife, best friend and soul mate for over 50 years is letting everyone know that Geoff passed away peacefully in the early hours on the morning of Sunday February 9th, 2025. 

Geoff was born and educated in Cambridge, England, his big claim to fame was that he was taught English by Douglas Adam the author of “Hitch Hikers Guide to the Galaxy”. and “Don’t Panic” was always a guiding phrase that Geoff would remind himself of as he came up against any problems in his life. Geoff was also extremely adventurous being a founding member of the British Sub Aqua Club in Cambridge doing recreational and professional dives for the police and for companies. Geoff was very smart, he successfully played in chess tournaments on a Cambridgeshire Team. Geoff worked at the British Welding Research Institute in Abingdon, Cambridgeshire as a Mechanical Design Engineer working on welding projects from all over the world. Geoff also did detailed plans and architectural projects for people wanting extensions and renovations completed on their homes.  Geoff throughout his life quietly volunteered hours of his time to help other people, helping to raise funds and improve their living environments (an example in St Anthony is the 4 houses the St Anthony Area Lions Club / Habitat for Humanity Housing project that many people in the town helped be successful), I tagged along helping and supporting him in many of his endeavors.  

Geoff and I married April 1st, 1973, and this year would have been our 52nd wedding anniversary. Geoff was the youngest in his family, he has an older brother John and older sister Jean still living in Fulbourn, England. Geoff’s English mother and Swedish father have both passed away, and he was also predeceased by an older brother Peter. Geoff has two nieces, Anna and Victoria living in England with their families, they are Peter’s two daughters. 

Geoff is being cremated as he wanted, and an intermate memorial service will be held for Geoff at a later date when it has been arranged.                                               

The picture of Geoff is how I will always remember him, the years have gone by far too quickly and I will miss him and love him forever. 

SPARKES, EPHRAIM JOHN

With heavy hearts, the family of Ephraim John Sparkes, age 84, of St. Anthony, NL, announces his peaceful passing on January 31, 2025, at Western Health's Palliative Care Unit, surrounded by his loving family.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Ephraim was the rock of his family. He shared 63 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Marina Sparkes, who was his greatest companion and best friend. together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished moments.

Born on October 6, 1940 in Lower Island Cove. Ephraim dedicated his life to teaching, shaping the minds and futures of countless students over the years. His passion for education went beyond the classroom, as he believed that learning was a lifelong journey. Whether he was explaining a lesson, sharing a story, or offering words of encouragement, he had a gift for making people feel seen, heard, and valued.

Outside of teaching, Ephraim found his greatest joy in the outdoors, developing a deep love for nature at an early age. An avid hunter and fisherman, he found peace in nature whether casting a line on a quiet morning, tracking game through the woods, or simply sitting by a campfire sharing stories. He passed this passion on to his children and grandchildren, teaching them not just the skills of the outdoors but the values of patience, respect, and appreciation for the simple things in life.

Above all, Ephraim was a man of integrity, hard work, and kindness. He was happiest surrounded by family, reliving past adventures and teaching life's greatest lessons - not just in a classroom, but in everyday moments. His warm smile, steady presence, and unwavering love will be deeply missed.

Ephraim Sparkes is survived by his loving wife, Marina Sparkes; his children Bob (Cindy), Lisa (Bill), Lynn (Rick), Lori (Sheldon) and daughter in law Christina; his grandchildren Natasha, Vanessa, Krystopher, Mark, Benjamin, Jenna, Adrian and Joshua; and his treasured great-grandchildren Marcus and Jessie. Eph will be lovingly remembered by his siblings Arthur (Eileen), Josie, Phyllis (Boyd-deceased), Joyce (Rick). He will also be missed by sister in law, Audrey, Melva (David-deceased), Linda; brother in law Don and a large circle of nieces and nephews. Ephraim was preceded in death by his son and best friend David, parents Eliab and Mary Sparkes of Lower Island Cove, in-laws Fred and Edna Roberts of St. Anthony, sister Marion, brothers Lawrence and Warren (Elsie), son in law Trace Gardner, sister in law Rita Roberts and brother in law Guy Roberts.

Visitation will be held at Kerry M. Fillatre Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm. The funeral service will take place from Kerry M. Fillatre Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at 11:00 am with Major Anthony Stokes and Major Beverly Dart-Stokes officiating. Cremation will follow with inurnment at a later date. In honor of his love for teaching and the outdoors, the family invites friends to share their favorite memories and lessons learned from him. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the St. Anthony Lions Club in his memory.

Though he has left this earth, his spirit will forever roam the woods, cast along the rivers, and live on in the hearts of those he taught, guided, and loved.

PARSONS, SADIE OLIVE (Nee Powell)

January 1, 1936 - January 30, 2025

It is with great sadness that the family of Sadie Parsons announces her passing at St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital , St. John’s, NL on January 30, 2025, at the age of 89.

Sadie was a dedicated member of the United Church Women at St. Anthony United Church and she absolutely treasured her time spent with the Joy Fellowship group. The group members were always an inspiration to her and she looked forward to the time she spent with them. Sadie was an avid knitter and her grandchildren always looked forward to getting their new mittens at Christmas. Everyone will also cherish their quilts made lovingly by Sadie. But above all else, it is Sadie’s love and devotion to her family that should be remembered. She was and will always be a source of inspiration, support, and pride to her children and grandchildren throughout their entire lives. Sadie was innately kind and a tremendous source of strength to all who loved her.

Sadie was predeceased by her parents Albert and Sarah Powell, her husband Jehu Parsons, her daughter Donna Parsons, son-in-law Morey Hillier, brothers Hedley (late Mary); Melvin (Juanita); Alfred (Dorcas); Donald (late Joan); Gordon (Neta); her sisters Beulah (late Robert); .and Lydia (late Mount). Sadie was the last of her siblings

Leaving to mourn with a lifetime of wonderful memories are daughter Joan Pynn, Grand Falls-Windsor; daughter-in-law Karla Loder, St. Anthony; grandchildren Jeremy Pynn (Tammy), Milford, NS; Chelsey Perry (Brett), Calgary, AB; Emily Parsons Hillier (Simon Taylor), St. John’s; Hannah Parsons Hillier (Jasmine Strickland), St. John’s; great grandchildren Madelyn and Grace Pynn and Nate and Nora Perry; special niece Audrey Skaling (Frank), Sussex, NB and a large circle of nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family wishes to express enormous gratitude to Dr. Saroja and the nursing staff at Level One and ICU at Charles S. Curtis Memorial hospital at St. Anthony and to Dr. Taylor at St. Clare’s for their dedicated care. Your kindness made a tremendous difference.

Visitation will take place at Kerry M. Fillatre Funeral Home on Friday, February 7th 2025 from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm. Donation of flowers are graciously accepted as well as donations to the St. Anthony United Church in Sadie’s memory. The funeral service will take place on Saturday. February 8, 2025 at 11:00 am. Interment to follow in the Fishing Point United Cemetery.

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PILGRIM, HEZEKIAH ABSOLOM

November 23, 1942 - December 29, 2024

It is with heavy heats that the family of Hezekiah Absolom Pilgrim announce his passing on December 29, 2024 at the age of 82. Hezekiah (Kye) passed away peacefully at Curtis Memorial Hospital in St. Anthony.

Kye, as he was known to everyone, loved to spend his time outside. Doing anything from trouting, berry picking or just fiddling around. But his favorite past time was his garden, which he tended to with pride.

Kye will forever be remembered and missed by anyone who ever had the pleasure of meeting him.

Leaving to mourn with fond memories are his sisters: Gladys, Betty, Karen, Glenda (Nath), June (Willie), Wendy (Brent); his brothers: Tobias and Eugene; special Uncle: Ronald (Harriet); special Aunt: Bessie, as well as a large circle of nieces, nephews and extended family.

Hezekiah is predeceased by his parents: Jonathon and Annie; brother: Ivan; sister: Goldie; brothers in law: James, Ford; and sister-in-law: Robin.

The family at this time would like to extend their most sincere appreciation to the staff at Curtis Memorial Hospital for their compassion during their time of need.

Visitation will take place at the Salvation Army Citadel on St. Anthony on Wednesday, January 1st, 2025 from 2-4 and 7-9pm. The funeral service will take place on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 11am with Major Stokes officiating. Cremation will follow the service with inurnment to take place at a later date.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Kerry M. Fillatre Funeral Home, St. Anthony and Roddickton, Alicia Reardon, Funeral Director.

SIMMS, WILLIE PERCIVAL

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved Dad and Pop, Willie Percival Simms (Bill, Po) (June 19, 1935 – November 20, 2024). Willie P. left us here on earth to join the love of his life, Millie, in heaven who welcomed him no doubt with a joyful embrace.

Predeceased by his mother and father (Herbert and Jane Simms); his brothers (Pascoe, Chris, Gord, and Samuel). Willie P. lived a beautiful life and was privileged to enjoy 89 full years with his loving family, who worshipped him; Nadine (Glen), Deanne (Dave), Gord (Colleen) and Lisa (Curtis). His six grandchildren, so lucky to have many special memories of ski doo rides, baked beans and drives around the harbour for ice cream; Natasha (Ryan), Jordan (Shelby), Nathan (Cheyenne), Heather (Brook), Shane and Emily. His cherished sisters; Margie, Donna, Mary,Eleanor, and brother in-law; Cliff (Betty).

Willie P. was a friend to many and enjoyed the company of all he met. Pop was a great storyteller and would often fondly recount his time working with the Grenfell Mission and teaching carpentry at the trade school. He was an active community member who devoted countless hours to the Canadian Rangers, Town Council, the St. Anthony Lions Club and other community groups.

Willie P.’s family would like to take this opportunity to profess a heartfelt thank you to those who provided care including the St. Anthony Volunteer Fire Department, RCMP, and the many healthcare providers at the Charles S. Curtis Memorial Hospital. Pop was very proud of his community and in his moment of need, received care that was second to none.

In Lieu of flowers and in his memory, the family suggests you donate to the St. Anthony Lions Club. Funeral service will be held at the St. Anthony United Church on Saturday, November 23rd at 11 am.

SMITH, STEPHEN JOSEPH

July 22, 1950 – November 4, 2024

It is with deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Stephen Joseph Smith, who peacefully departed this life on November 4, 2024, surrounded by the family he held so dear. Born on July 22, 1950, Stephen's life was a testament to love, laughter, and the joy he found in every moment spent with loved ones.

Stephen’s heart was deeply rooted in family. As a father and grandfather, he radiated warmth, gentleness, and unwavering support. His greatest joys were found in the simple moments with his grandchildren—cheering them on at hockey games, reading bedtime stories, playing cards, and attending the occasional tea party.

His love of nature was a reflection of his soul—He was happiest with the open sky above him, whether fishing on the water or gathering berries on the berry hills.

In the final weeks of his life, Stephen made a choice that brought him profound peace: he welcomed Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. This decision filled him with comfort, and it was with quiet faith that he prepared to reunite with those who have gone before him. Stephen now rests, embraced in God’s love.

Stephen is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Lois, his life partner and confidante of 53 years. His love and care of her was unwavering. He leaves behind his daughters Stacey (Clyde), Amy (Deon), and Cheryl-Lynn (Jody), who carry on his legacy of love, and his grandchildren—Johnathan, Cruz, Zoey, Ethan, Eren, and Beau—who were the light of his life. He is predeceased by his parents, Stephen and Lucy Smith; his infant son, Jonathan Hayward; and his brothers Charlie and George, along with his brother-in-law’s, Roland, Allan, George and John and Sister-in-Law Dorothy.

He is also survived by his brothers Hayward (Netta), Thomas (Clara), Francis (Mary), Henry (Maureen), and Edwin (Sheila); his sisters Stella, Louie (Wayne), Ruby (Ron), and Edith (Ron); and Natalie (Jon), whom he loved as a sister.

Stephen will be remembered for his gentle spirit, quiet strength, and deep compassion. His laughter, stories, and unconditional love will forever live in our hearts. As we mourn, we hold close the memories of a man who lived with joy and loved unconditionally.

Public viewing will be Saturday from 2:00pm – 4:00pm  and 7:00pm – 9:00pm, and Sunday, 2:00pm – 4:00pm with the family service to take place from 7:00-9:00 pm. A celebration of Stephen’s life will be held at the Salvation army church in St. Anthony, on Monday November 11th, 2024 at 2:00 PM with Corps Sgt. Maj. Don Noble officiating. Interment to follow.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Kerry M. Fillatre Funeral Home, St. Anthony and Roddickton, Lee Nippard, Funeral Director.

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PATEY, ELSIE ELLA

November 24, 1942 – October 28, 2024

Passed peacefully away surrounded by her family at Western Memorial Regional Hospital, Corner Brook at the age of 81 years. Elsie was born in St. Anthony and raised by her mother Marion and Hedley Bartlett in L’anse aux Meadows. At the age of 15 when her mother passed away, she took on the role of parenting her 2-year-old brother Garry. In 1958 she met the love of her life Lester, who came to L’anse aux Meadows to teach school. They married on June 29, 1960, and moved to St Anthony where they settled and raised their 5 girls. In 1995, they moved to Corner Brook to be closer to family after a short 5-year term in Hant’s Harbour, Trinity Bay.

She leaves to mourn with fond and loving memories, her 5 daughters Marion (Wayne), Norma (Glenn), Jackie, Nancy (Dennis) and Lori, Grandchildren Jeffrey and Ashley, Adam and Amanda, Kayla and Karla, Charlotte and Matthew, Great grandchildren Brackley, Lincoln, Carter, Asher, Avery, Arick, Hunter and Grant, brother Garry and very special aunt Blanche, In-laws Glenn (Bonnie), Patricia, Shirley (Ed), Belle, and Mildred. As well as a very large circle of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Elsie is preceded in death by her husband of 40 years Lester and infant baby, parents Hedley and Marion, In-laws William, Chatfield and Elizabeth, son-in-law Perry, brothers-in-law Roy and Terry and special Uncle Luke.

Elsie enjoyed life to the fullest, a very active member of the Corner Brook Senior’s Club where she made many friends over the years. Even though they retired and settled in Corner Brook she always referred to St. Anthony as home and made as many trips back as she could and where she will be laid to rest next to her husband.

The family would like to thank her cancer care team at the Dr H. Bliss Murphy Cancer center, and the staff of the Cancer Care and 5B units at Western Memorial Regional Hospital for the care and comfort they provided. A special thanks to Dr. Katy Smallwood and Dr. Aiden Brazil for making themselves so readily available when needed most.

There will be a private visitation for family and friends held on Friday Nov 1st 7:00 – 9:00 pm followed by a private funeral service at 2:00 pm Saturday Nov 2nd at K.M. Fillatre Funeral Home, St Anthony. Interment to follow at the Salvation Army Cemetery, St. Anthony.

Flowers graciously accepted or donations to the Canadian Cancer Society accepted.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to K.M. Fillatre’s Funeral Home in St. Anthony and Country Haven Funeral Home, Corner Brook.

STEVENS, LENA GAIL

It is with profound sadness that the family of Lena “Gail” Stevens announce her passing on Sept 20, 2024 at Charles Curtis Memorial Hospital at the age of 61. Throughout the last decade she had struggles with her health. She fought a long and hard battle to stay with her family to watch them grow and shower them with love- until the lord called her home.

Gail was married to her true love Tom for 20 years. In her good health when you would see one you would see the other- whether it was fishing, hunting, in the woods and on their evening drives. Throughout the last few years the sickness took over her body but her true love, Tom, was always by her side through sickness and health.

Left to mourn is her husband Tom; Sons: Ronnie Glenn (Amanda), Scott Stevens (Lorna); Daughter: Sherry Pilgrim (Tyson); Granddaughter: Sierra and Karen (Ge); Grandsons: Scott (Mackenzie), Tyrone (Jalyse), Devon (Shandi); and great-granddaughter Avery; Brother: Everton Patey; Sisters: Alma Hillier (Bryan), Leona Patey (Roy), Carolann Patey (Rob), Sandra Patey (Eric), Betty Patey (Overton); Special Niece: Joanne Strangemore (Sam); Special Nephews: Gabe and Parker; Homecare worker: Cathy Tucker; Lifelong friend: Marilyn Walker (who stood by her side during her last few days) and Richard Richards for all his visits and laughs. She also leaves to mourn a large circle of nieces, nephews, in laws, family and friends.

Gail is predeceased by her parents: Elizabeth and Thomas Patey & Sybil and Lloyd Patey; Brother: Kirby and Sisters: Rhonda and Pearl.

The family would like to thank the staff in the Dialysis, Intensive care and Palliative Care unit at Charles Curtis Memorial hospital who took such great care of her over the last few years.

Visitation will take place from the Salvation Army Citadel in St. Anthony on Sunday, September 22, 2024 and Monday, September 23, 2024 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at 2:00 PM with Major Stokes and Major Dart-Stokes officiating. Cremation will follow with inurnment to be announced at a later date.

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Funeral arrangements entrusted to Kerry M. Fillatre Funeral Home, St. Anthony and Roddickton, Lee Nippard, Funeral Director.

PATEY, FRANCIS

With great sadness, the family of Francis Patey announce his passing on September 18, 2024, at Charles S. Curtis Memorial Hospital. In his 88th year, Francis passed peacefully with family by his side after a battle with dementia.

Francis leaves to mourn his wife of 59 years Agnes (nee Bartlett), son Chris (Beverly), daughter Joanne (Ghislain), former daughter in law Denise Patey (nee Simms), former son in law Todd Robertson and his cherished granddaughters Melissa and Jessica Patey, both of St. John's, and Madison Robertson of Kingston, Ontario.

Francis was predeceased by his parents Pte. Noah Patey of Hare Bay and his mother Meta (nee Pilgrim) of St. Anthony Bight, as well as brothers Wilfred, Charlie, Norman (Elsie), Stewart (Ida), Lloyd (Marie) and sister Jessie.

Francis’ working career began with a stint teaching in Hopedale. Over the years, he worked with Government services in both Nain and Hopedale, as well as with various construction companies. He eventually settled into a nearly 20-year career as a Commissionaire, initially at the” old” St. Anthony airport before becoming the first commissionaire at the” new” St. Anthony airport. He developed a love of aircraft (but did not love flying in them) and the aviation world, and had great respect for the talented pilots that flew them and the Air Traffic Controllers who guided them. A full airport also meant a captive audience as he was sure to find someone to strike up a conversation and share some stories. He also served with the Canadian Rangers from1978 to 2002.

Over the years, he enjoyed simple pleasures such as dart night at the Legion, coaching the Aces, setting a few snares in the winter and bamboo fishing in the summer. He tried his hand at making home brew which inevitably resulted in exploding bottles at random times during the day and night. Later in life, he used his creative talents to carve and create dioramas depicting traditional Newfoundland life. He could often be found helping Agnes in her garden. But of all the things he enjoyed and accomplished, it was his three granddaughters that brought him the most joy.

Francis will most likely be remembered as a historian with an incredible memory for local facts, events and people. As a natural storyteller, most conversations began with “do you remember when” before he’d launch into a story of local significance. He was involved with the creation of St. Anthony’s first newspaper, The Polaris News, and went on to become a regular contributor to its successor, The Northern Pen.

After retirement, he dedicated his time to preserving and recording local historical events and went on to publish several books. He was especially proud of the scrapbook he created chronicling the late 1970’s seal hunt protests and the day when Greenpeace came to town. This scrapbook was sought out by the academic world and made its way through numerous universities across Canada and into the United States as well as at the Rooms.

While Francis enjoyed his trips to St. John's and Ontario, he was truly at home in the neighbourhood where he was raised on the east side of St. Anthony. He was a local fixture on Lamage Point and enjoyed chatting with his neighbour buddies and watching boats from his vantage point overlooking St. Anthony harbour.

In his final weeks at Charles S. Curtis, Francis asked Agnes how old he was; she replied 88. He looked around for a moment, thought about it, and said with his familiar little grin...” that's not too bad”. Indeed, not too bad at all! He was well respected and will be sorely missed.

Cremation has already taken place, a family service will be held on (To Be Announced) with a burial at a later date.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Kerry M. Fillatre Funeral Home, St. Anthony and Roddickton, Lee Nippard, Funeral Director.

SNOW, ELIZA

Eliza Snow passed away peacefully at her home on July 6, 2024 surrounded by her loved ones. She had lost her nine month battle with cancer at the age of 69.

Eliza was born on November 24, 1954 to Albert and Effie Pynn of Quirpon. She met the love her life, Robert Snow, and married on January 24, 1975 and together they had four children: Nicole (Wade), Jennifer, Georgina (Jason) and Bobby. She spent her life working, raising her family, and making friends along the way. She was also blessed with four grandchildren: Cody, Robby (Nicole), Caitlyn, & Kyle.

Eliza leaves to mourn her husband, her children, her grandchildren; Sister: Annie Lambert; Brother: Bradley (Peggy) Pynn; Sister-in-law: Patsy Pynn as well as a large circle of family and friends.

She is predeceased by her daughter: Jennifer; Parents: Albert and Effie Pynn; Brother: George Pynn; and brother-in-law: Guy Lambert.

The family would like to send a thank-you to those who sent condolences and supported us in any way at this difficult time. We would also like to extend our thanks to the staff at the Charles S. Curtis Memorial Hospital, the community health nurses, Major Anthony and Beverly Stokes and KM Fillatres.

Visitation to take place from the Salvation Army Citadel in St. Anthony on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 from 2-4 pm and 7-8:30 pm. The funeral will take place at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 with Major Stokes and Dart-Stokes officiating. Interment to follow in the St. Anthony Salvation Army Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Kerry M. Fillatre Funeral Home, St. Anthony and Roddickton, Alicia Reardon, Funeral Director.