Ronald Harold Wilkins

Ronald Harold Wilkins “Ronnie”, 66, of Digby, passed away peacefully, surrounded by love and friendship, Wednesday January 20, 2021 in Prim House, Tideview Terrace, Digby. Born in Digby, January 14, 1955, he was the son of the late Harold “Bear” Wilkins and the late Viola (Brittain) Surette. He was raised with his sister on Sydney Street in Digby by his father and grandparents, Agnes “Aggie” and Elton Wilkins.

A well known presence in the town of Digby, Ronnie held many jobs over his years, everything from washing dishes at the Cornwallis Cafe and Kaywin restaurant to working in the wood yard at the Conway Workshop. In the years prior to his stroke in July of 2018, he could be seen walking many kilometers a day in the town, with his grocery cart, collecting bottles and cans for refund, and having the occasional chat with those he knew along the way.

Ronnie was raised in the Digby Salvation Army, and wore the uniform proudly, until the church closed its doors. A self taught organ and accordion player, he was proud of his involvement with the “Army”, and had many fond memories of the musical fellowship he shared. A self taught harmonica player as well, he delighted many with his musical talents at local church and nursing home functions over the years. He took great pride in being able to play “I’ll Fly Away” on the harmonica, at his father’s funeral in September of 2007.

Ronnie is survived by his sister Louise (John “Jack”) Harvey, Middleton; his nieces Tammie (Andrew) Phillips and their children Aaron and Rachel, all of Jonesport, Maine, Lisa (Michael) Sabean, and their children Corey, Andrew and Maria, all of Middleton, nephew David Harvey, Middleton; half sister, Gail (Surette) Rockey, Prescott, Ontario. He is also survived by his fathers second wife, Eugenie Wilkins, Sandy Cove, and her children Scott (Tonya) Langhorne and Cindy (Dan) Smith, in North Carolina, and many extended family members in the Digby area.

In keeping with Ronnie’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Due to current provincial restrictions, a service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to the Digby and Area Foodbank, Tideview Terrace or to The Salvation Army.

We would like to thank all the people who have lovingly provided care and companionship to Ronnie over the years, with special appreciation for Shelley Halliday, and the friendship she shared with him. To Dr. John Black and Dr. Grant Goodine, thank you for providing such compassionate, professional care. To the employees of the Veterans Unit at Soldiers Memorial Hospital, Mountain Lea Lodge and Tideview Terrace, we thank you for giving Ronnie a reason to smile and laugh every day. You uncovered Ronnie’s true spirit, and brought joy and light back into his life. You are all blessed with a special gift, and we are forever indebted to you.

Funeral service will be 2pm on September 5 from Jayne's Funeral Home, Rev. Jeff White officiating with burial in Woodlawn cemetery, Digby.

Live stream available on day of service at: https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=69553197-9e59-472d-ac63-4110ce71bd6b