Jack Harris Hallett

Age 83, of Dartmouth & formerly of Lockeport, NS passed away peacefully on February 14th, 2020, at Glasgow Hall, Baker Drive, Dartmouth, NS. Born July 10th, 1936 in Lockeport NS, he was a son of the late John “Jack” & Agatha (Townsend) Hallett. A humble yet proud fisherman all of his life, he fished on the East & West Coasts. Jack was well known and respected as one of the best deck hands and cooks aboard any vessel he sailed. His homemade bread and chowder were appreciated by captains, crewmates and when the seabag was retired, family and friends enjoyed many a meal.

A hardworking man all of his life he was the first to encourage his children and grandchildren to obtain an education so they would not have to work as hard as he had and would have more time at home with their families. Perhaps the reason why following retirement he enjoyed his grandchildren, travelling, and trips to Little Harbour so much. It was the little things like working in his garden, camping with his grandchildren, digging clams, duck hunting, deer hunting with his brothers and trout fishing at Goshen that brought a sparkle to his eyes.

Jack had many roles throughout his life, he was a devoted son who dug clams and went to sea as a young teenager to help support his family. As the eldest of nine he is fondly remembered by his siblings as being the peacemaker of the family. He was a loyal husband who doted on his wife, not wanting to leave this earth before her as it was his duty to care for her. Being a father was not easy as he was away often at sea but he did his best to teach his children to follow their dreams, be humble and kind. The role he enjoyed the most was that of being a Grampy and Papa. Nieces, nephews, friends and extended family have referred to him as gentle, kind and never saying a bad word about anyone. Perhaps we could all take a page from Jack's book.

Jack enjoyed having his father-in-law Doug and mother-in-law Hazel reside with them for a number of years. There were many card games held on Lynn Drive and family gatherings under the shade of the Linden Tree.

Jack served proudly as the Sexton of the Church of the Holy Spirit, Dartmouth for over 20 years. The Church was kept immaculate and even the Bishop commented that he didn't want to "mess up Jack's Church". If you went to visit and he wasn't home, in his garden or shed he could be found at "his church".

Jack is survived by his wife of 27 years, Louise (Ritchie-Tanton); daughter Sherri Dawn (Bill) Harris, Jordan Falls; son Allan (Wendy) Cape Sable Island; stepsons, Gerry and Scott (Tara) Tanton, Dartmouth; brothers/sisters Eleanor ”Sis”(the late Raymond Freeman), Wallace (Irene), Helen (Brud Goulden), Harvey (Charlotte), Jane (Sanford Hood), Richard (Caroline) and Angus (Donna) and Sister-in-law/best friend Arlene (the late Robert Hallett); grandchildren, Jordan Harris, Jacki & Shane Kavanagh, Jared & Tayler Hallett, Benjamin, Nathaniel, David & Harper Tanton. Honorary grandchildren Tyler, Denna, Delana & Destiny Harris. Grandpuppies Kasey Ann & Guinness. Many nieces and nephews who he cherished.

Jack was predeceased by stepdaughter Jennifer Tanton, brother/best friend Bob, brother-in-law Raymond Freeman, and niece Stephanie Hallett Williams.

A memorial service will be held at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Dartmouth, NS on Saturday, February 29th at 2:00pm, Rev Edwin Ebsary officiating. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers(Jack wouldn't want a mess made in the church) donations may be made to the Church of the Holy Spirit.

The family would like to thank the entire staff of Glasgow Hall for the care and compassion they showed. "To do your job well is one thing but to become extended family is another.”