Harold James Haley

Harold was born in Halifax, NS, on June 2nd, 1935, to the late Gordon and Marguerite Haley. He spent his childhood playing baseball and hockey and was a passionate sports fan. He listened to the games on the radio and later watched them on TV… sometimes he did both at once. The Maple Leafs, the Packers and the Yankees were his favourites. Harold played competitive darts, having won too many trophies to count, and was ranked 10th in singles in Canada. He worked as a supervisor at the HMC Dockyard for most of his life, retiring after 39 years to enjoy more time on the golf course.

Harold was a great listener and had a calm, quiet, thoughtful way about him, making him easy to talk to. However, don't be fooled; his reserved nature didn't keep him from having fun. He loved going to the Mess. You would find him on Saturday afternoons in the snooker room. Nicknamed "H" by his friends, he had a razor-sharp wit that could win any argument and candid humour that kept smiles on many faces. He went dancing on Saturday nights and attended too many dart nights to count. Harold had a big heart, quietly contributing to many charities and a soft spot for animals… especially his dog Toby. We won't speak of his obsession with napkins.

His family meant the world to him. Harold is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jackie Haley (Gates), who will miss him immensely. Together they raised their only child, Debbie. As a dad, he was strict but loving, and Debbie will never get over his loss. She has many of his traits, so he will always be in her heart. He loved his son-in-law, Mike, the son he never had, and Harold always spoke so highly of him… and often joked about how glad he was that Mike was a handyman. "Cheers, Mike. Have a glass of red for me."

His pride and joy were his grandchildren, Amy and Matthew. They affectionately referred to him as GaGa (he was horrified at first but grew to love it), and he had a huge presence in their lives. He chased them as toddlers, taxied them to hockey, and never failed to celebrate every occasion with them. He indulged and spoiled them beyond measure, and they could do no wrong. "XXX OOO, signature, smiley face, kids."

Harold is survived by his sister Marguerite O'Brien, with whom he had a wonderful relationship. They spoke frequently, and hearing her voice always made him smile. He is also survived by sisters-in-law Rosemary Haley and Mary Newell.

Harold was predeceased by his younger brother, Gordie Haley. This left a void that was never filled. Hopefully, they are reunited. He was also predeceased by Harrison O'Brien, beloved husband to Marguerite, sister-in-law Betty and Ron MacDonald, brother-in-law Joe Newell, cherished husband of Mary, and many good friends.

Harold had a special place in his heart for his nieces and nephews, Jo, Mike, Paul, the late Jim, Joe, and Kevin. He especially enjoyed teasing Dawn, having a rye and water with Bob and the late Harrison O'Brien Jr., and 'debating' sports with Pat. He is also survived by many cousins.

Harold always made sure he thanked those that helped and cared for him. The family would like to thank the neighbours for their kindness. Also, the family would like to thank the VONs, Continuing Care, the Palliative Care Team and Dr. Wood. Harold always said Dr. Wood was a 'good guy.' Words can not express how grateful we are that he was under your care.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Harold's life at a gathering Thursday October 27, 2022 between 7-9 pm at J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax, NS. A service will be held at St. John Vianney, 4 Beaver Bank Rd., Lower Sackville, NS, Friday October 28, at 11:30am, reception to follow. Burial will be for immediate family only. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.