Thomas "Tom" Haines

Little Dover, NS

HAINES, Thomas, 90, of Little Dover, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, in Eastern Memorial Hospital, Canso. Born in Little Dover, he was a son of the late Alfred and Katie (David) Haines.

Tom was a lifelong lobster fisherman, a trade that defined his character and his deep connection to the coast. His life on the water began as an early teen, fishing alongside his father and brothers. While his heart was always with the sea, he also served his community on land for many years, managing Blue Ribbon Seafoods until the early 1980s. At that time, he returned to lobster fishing full-time with his son, Darren. They worked as a team on the water until Tom finally retired at the age of 75.

Beyond the sea, Tom found great peace in the woods. He enjoyed rabbit snaring and the simple, quiet work of the forest, whether he was walking to check his snares or cutting wood for the winter with Darren. Known for a very steady calmness that was never altered, Tom moved through life with a quiet strength and a gentle spirit.

While he was a man of quiet nature, he and his beloved wife, Beattie, were also the heart of many social gatherings. In their earlier years, they were well known for throwing legendary parties. Their home was a place of music, laughter, and community, creating memories that family and neighbors in Little Dover still speak of today. Tom’s peaceful passing on New Year's Eve came just in time for him to join his beloved Beattie for their first New Year’s celebration together in the sky.

Tom is now reunited with his wife of 51 years, Mary Beatrice "Beattie" (Boudreau), who predeceased him in 2013. He is survived by his devoted son, Darren and daughter-in-law, Annette, Little Dover; his grandson, Bobby (Jennica), Coldbrook; and his cherished great-granddaughter, Grace Haines. He also leaves behind his siblings, Duf, Isabel, Manzer, Tean, and Garnet; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Besides his parents and his wife, Beattie, Tom was predeceased by his brothers, Lloyd, Malcolm, John, and Ronnie; and his sisters, Mandi, Leona, and Mag.

The family would like to express their sincere thanks to Dr. Chris Milburn and the nursing staff of Eastern Memorial Hospital, Canso. A special thank you to home care nurses Bessie Dobson and Thelma Bond, as well as home support services, for the wonderful care provided to Tom while he resided at home over the last number of years.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held from 1–4 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, in St. Agnes Parish Hall, Little Dover. A graveside service will be held in St. Agnes Parish Cemetery at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to St. Agnes Parish.

Arrangements are under the care of Dennis Haverstock Funeral Home, Canso. Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at: www.haverstocks.com