Paul Malcolm Jones

It is with broken hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Paul Malcolm Jones on May 31, 2026, at Dartmouth General Hospital. Paul was born in Clark's Harbour on February 26, 1944, to Claremont and Waldenia (Symonds) Jones. He was the third of five children and spent his life building a legacy defined by hard work, friendship, mentorship, and an unwavering love for his family.

A successful fishing captain and devoted father of five, Paul was a hardworking man who spent much of his life on the water. He took great pride in teaching many young men the fishing trade and helping them become fishermen in their own right. His happiest days were spent at sea, hauling in fish on Georges Bank, where he fished for many years.

Following the fishing moratorium of the 1980s, Paul faced the challenge of starting over. Never one to shy away from hard work, he built a new career selling meat and seafood throughout the Annapolis Valley before expanding the business to Halifax. There, he was joined by his son, and together they supplied countless families with quality seafood, a legacy that continues to this day.

Paul also joined Murphy's on the Water as a captain, quickly becoming one of the company's most valued and trusted team members. Known affectionately to many as "Captain Pauly," he formed countless lasting friendships. Among them was Dr. Lawless, who began her career with Paul and Murphy's as a captain before becoming a physician and later caring for him during his final days.

During this chapter of his life, Paul met his beloved partner, Shirley Gordon. Together they shared many wonderful years filled with travel, laughter, companionship, and unforgettable memories.

Dad was an avid golfer, hunter, fisherman, mentor, and coach. Some of our most treasured memories were made at the family cottage and hunting camp in Upper Clyde, where countless days were filled with laughter, storytelling, and a few uncensored adventures that have become cherished family legends. Upper Clyde gave us some of life's most beautiful moments with Dad, memories that will remain with us forever. He was also a lifelong fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and a devoted supporter of the Boston Red Sox, faithfully following his teams through every season.

In his later years, Dad's greatest joy was his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether it was hearing stories of Seal Island adventures, attending family gatherings, celebrating scratch ticket winnings, or keeping up with Cameron's hockey games, he wanted to know every detail. His eyes lit up whenever family was near, and until his final day, he remained their biggest fan and proudest supporter.

Paul was truly one of a kind. He was a character with more stories than could ever be told, and everyone who knew him has a tale of their own that they will treasure and hopefully pass on. His wit was unmatched, and his strength beyond compare. Even two weeks before his passing, when he finally agreed to visit outpatient care, he had nurses and doctors laughing with his quick humour and sharp personality—the same qualities that endeared him to everyone he met.

Paul leaves behind his loving partner, Shirley Gordon; son, Paul Jones Jr.; daughters, Paula (Randy), Christa (Jamel), and Cara (Rob); stepdaughter, Leeann; sister, Lynn Nickerson; sister-in-law, Lynne Jones; grandchildren, Skye, Luke, Jenna, Chaila, Jaylee, Kalista, and Cameron; and great-grandchildren, Saylor, Owen, Oliver, Rogan, Jettlyn, Jrue, Jae, and Briar. He also leaves behind his beloved cat, Star, whose companionship, affection, and daily presence brought him comfort and kept him smiling throughout his illness.

Besides his parents, Claremont and Waldenia Jones, Paul was predeceased by his beloved son, Curtis; his first wife, Christine, the mother of his children; and his siblings, Robert, Gerald, and Leigh Jones.

Paul's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the fishermen he mentored, the friendships he forged, and the family he loved so deeply.

In keeping with his wishes, his ashes will be scattered on Georges Bank, returning him to the waters he loved most.

Paul is resting at A.L. Mattatall Funeral Home in Dartmouth. Donations in his memory may be made to the charity of your choice or to Oakvale Cemetery in Clark's Harbour. A celebration of life will take place at a later date.

Dad, thank you for making us the lucky ones. 💙 Rest easy now. We will see you again where love and happiness never end. ❤️❤️❤️❤️