William Murray "B.J." Jones

JONES, William Murray (Bill) - Age 76 of Halifax passed away peacefully Sunday March 6 2016 at the Palliative Care unit of the Victoria General Hospital. Born in Halifax, he is the son of the late Murray and Thelma (Rice) Jones.

He was well-known in the community as a taxi driver, racecar driver, businessman, and automobile collector. Bill took great pride in his cars, and took them to many parades and car shows. He owned and operated an auto salvage in Hubbards for years, which he used to fund his iconic racing career. Bill was one of three men in the Maritimes asked to run trial laps for the Daytona 500, and the only one who did not have a corporate sponsor. He will be forever known as a self made man who worked hard for everything he had.

Bill enjoyed traveling, especially to Florida, where he owned a house for some time. One of his favourite things to do, no matter where he went, was sing karaoke. He loved to be on stage and make people smile with his improvised lyrics. He earned the nickname “Candyman” by always having a pocketful of candies to give away. Other names he was known by include Billy, B.J., and Beatle Bill. He wore a tough-as-nails exterior, but he had a kind heart with a soft spot for children and animals. He will be missed by many people near and far.

Bill is survived by his daughters, Lisa and Melinda; sisters, Carol, Ann, and Cherie; granddaughter, Jessica: and several nieces. Besides his parents, Bill is predeceased by his brother, Ross and nephew, Roy, as well as several beloved pets.

An informal Celebration of Life service will be held at 2 pm on Saturday, March 12, 2016 at Cruikshank's Funeral Home at 2666 Windsor Street, Halifax. A private burial will take place at St. John's Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any animal shelter or animal charity of your choice.

Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive, well preserved body but rather to skid in sideways, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out yelling, "WooHoo!! What a ride!"

-Hunter S. Thompson