Whitney Pier

The family is saddened to advise of the passing of John Joseph Barnabas Black, age 85, of Matilda Street in Whitney Pier on Tuesday, July 23, 2019 at Harbourstone Enhanced Care, Sydney.

Barney was predeceased by his parents, Rod and Mary Black, brother, Roddie ‘Brother’ Black and his former wife, Geraldine (Hogan) Black.

Barney is survived by his sister, Carmel, Truro, sister-in-law, Mary (Roddie), Sydney; brothers, Frank (Donna), Grindstone, Manitoba, Paul (Kaye), Ben Eoin, Joe (Lillie), Regina, Saskatchewan; as well as many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews and by special friend, Marie Burke, Mira.

Barney was a longtime employee of Eastern Light & Power Ltd. and Nova Scotia Power Corp., first as a Lineman and then, after 40 years, finishing his career as a Regional Superintendent. He loved his work and loved to work. After retirement, he made it his mission to help friends and neighbours by repairing their vehicles, assisting with home maintenance and repairs, and generally making himself useful in the community. Barney and his iconic blue, half-ton Chev truck were fixtures in Whitney Pier. His truck could be seen plying Sydney’s roads as he lent a helping hand to whoever needed it. His many good deeds were appreciated by neighbours, friends and strangers. Barney was a frequent visitor to the Pier Tim Horton’s where he helped sort out many of the world’s problems and where he will be missed and fondly remembered by his many friends and acquaintances. Barney was a well-known, well-liked and well-respected member of the Whitney Pier community, often straying outside of the Pier to visit his favourite eating establishments Simeon’s and Kay’s Kozy Korner in Sydney and Mickey D’s in New Waterford.

Barney’s diagnosis with dementia in late 2015 dealt a devastating blow to him and severely impacted his mobility, independence and lifestyle. He struggled in the last years of his life with this dreadful disease which afflicts so many Cape Breton families.

The disease progressed quickly and relentlessly in the past four years. His death is a release from the grips of this unforgiving disease and his journey into the afterlife is a blessing. The family thanks the loyal friends who visited him on a regular basis. Your visits meant a great deal to Barney. The family also thanks the caregivers at Harbourstone. A special thank you to the staff of Levatte’s Lane for the quality of the care they gave to our brother, Barney

Visitation for the late Barney Black will be held on Sunday, July 28, 2019 at the Pier Community Funeral Home, 1092 Victoria Rd. (entrance on Church Street) from 4-7 p.m. Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Monday, July 29, 2019 at 10 a.m. in Holy Redeemer Church, Whitney Pier, with Fr. Paul Murphy officiating.
Following the Mass, a reception will be held at the Pier Community Funeral Home.
Interment will take place in Resurrection Cemetery, Sydney Forks with his parents.
Donations in memory of Barney may be made to the Holy Redeemer Building Fund or to a charity of your choice.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.

Online Condolences

So sorry to hear of Barneys passing.He was a good & kind man.
From:  Carol & Ken Williston

Carmel and family, we are very sorry for your loss. Barney was a great friend and neighbour on Matilda St. My mom (Jean) would often give me updates on how he was doing. It must be a comfort that he is at peace. We are keeping Barney and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
From:  Patricia (Murphy), Brian and Emily Globe

Paul and family
Sorry to read of your brother’s passing. From the lovely obituary, it would seem that he is now free to meet old and new friends with his former personal vivacity.
From:  Dennis & Carol MacDonald

CARMEL: YOU ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS
From:  BETTY & WALTER

Please except my deepest condolences on John’s passing. He was one of the BEST. Stand-up Dude in every way. Never had to worry How Barney would treat you . Always treated me the best. He worked , played & lived to the most . R.I.P. —FELLOW LINEMAN
From:  David G. Holland

My deepest sympathy on learning of Barney’s passing. He was a fine man who will be missed. Sincerely Jim Sheppard (Victoria Mines)
From:  Jim Sheppard

My deepest condolences to family and friends. Growing up on Topshee Dr. I remember Barney well. He will live in the hearts and minds of us all forever.
From:  Bobbie (McAskill) Raoul