Born in Digby on March 12, 1952, Robert was the beloved son of the late Fenwick and Laura (Wyman) Jeffrey. He grew up in the close-knit community of Sandy Cove, where the rhythms of coastal life shaped him. It was here that he developed a deep appreciation for the sea, enjoying lobster that his father—and later his brother—would bring home for family meals. It was also in Sandy Cove that his love of learning took root, setting him on a path that would lead to a fulfilling career in education. A proud graduate of Acadia University, Robert became a well-respected Principal at Digby Neck Consolidated School and Barton Consolidated School. He later served as Vice Principal of Digby Elementary School until his retirement in 2008.
Robert lived life with joy and gratitude. He had a deep appreciation for nature, a quiet strength, and a sincere love for those around him. A dedicated reader of the Bible, he loved his Lord and Saviour deeply and walked through life with a gentle, steadfast faith.
A lifelong golf enthusiast, Robert spent countless hours in pursuit of the ever-elusive hole-in-one—always just one lucky bounce (or questionable ricochet) away. He was a former member of the Clare Golf and Country Club, and a member of the Pines Golf and Country Club for the past 20 years He approached the game with equal parts passion, patience, and playful determination. Robert loved to travel, creating lasting memories with dear friends in sunny Florida. He held a special fondness for Greece, which he visited many times with his wife, siblings and extended family. It was his favourite destination.
While Robert enjoyed travel and golf, his greatest joy was always his family. He cherished every moment spent with his loved ones and carried a contentment that touched everyone who knew him.
Robert is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Joy (Cosman), of Digby, NS; his sons: Fenwick (Alison) of Quispamsis, NB; Adam (Candina) of Bear River, NS; and Philip (Roxanne) of Plympton, NS. He was a proud and cherished grandfather to Brody, William, Blake, and Violet. He is also survived by his siblings: Mark (Janet) of Little River, NS; Carolyn of Ottawa, ON, and Davene (Mike) of Sandy Cove, NS; his niece, Victoria (Caleb) of Ottawa, ON; and his nephew, Devon of Halifax, NS. Robert’s memory will also be treasured by extended family members Logan, Brinley, Benson, Elizabeth, Jesse, and Mrs. Doug Lewis, along with many other dear relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his beloved niece, Catherine Carver.
Robert has been entrusted to the care of Jayne’s Funeral Home in Digby, where cremation has taken place in accordance with his wishes. Visitation will be held at Jayne’s on April 24, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A celebration of his life will follow at the same location on April 25, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., with Rev. Fred Bigelow officiating. Interment will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Robert’s memory may be made to the QEII Organ Foundation to give a family the same gift of life we have been given, or to a charity of your choice. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Walsh and the liver team at the QEII Health Sciences Centre, whose exceptional skill, dedication and expertise gave Robert the priceless gift of more years with those he loved. A special thank you is also extended to the medical staff at Yarmouth Regional Hospital, Digby General Hospital and the VON, and Dr. Gillis for their compassionate care and support during Robert’s journey.
To register for the livestream please click the link:
https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=17932cb5-d8ac-46d3-9fa8-553416eb5ec0
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