William Cumming Outhit

He was born in Halifax in 1935, the eldest son of William D. Outhit, QC, and Jean (Cumming) Outhit. Dad was predeceased in 2013 by his beloved wife of 54 years, Mildred Jane (Betts) Outhit. He is survived by his son, Tim of Bedford, his daughter, Sarah of Halifax, his daughter-in-law, Sandra Toze; and granddaughters, Elizabeth, Emily, and Victoria. He is also survived by his brothers, Peter and Stephen, and several nieces and nephews.

At the age of five, our father suffered a devasting accident when he fell from the top of a telephone poll in front of his home on Cambridge St. He remained in a coma for many weeks and was not expected to survive. Against all odds, he survived-and went on to flourish. He relearned how to walk, speak and write. With the use of only one arm, he later taught himself to play Little League baseball, drive a standard shift car, swim, and curl.

Dad developed a lifelong love of music. In 1945, he joined the junior choir at St. Andrew’s United Church and later sang in the senior choir. He enjoyed singing in amateur operas and Gilbert & Sullivan Society productions. Music led him to meet Mom in the St Andrews choir and Couples Club in 1958, and they were married in 1959. Music remained a central part of his life for decades. He also enjoyed contributing to St Andrews as a member of the Board of Stewarts and later as an Elder. He was an avid curler as well and a member of the Halifax Curling Club.

After 30 years of service with the Provincial Government, he retired in 1995. Dad and Mom then moved to Moncton, NB, where they built a home on Magnetic Hill overlooking Moncton and Albert County. Dad continued his singing by joining the choir at First Baptist Church. Together they travelled throughout Canada, Florida, Bermuda, UK, and Europe, and enjoyed time spent with family in Malagash.

After Mom’s passing, Dad returned to Halifax to be closer to family and made his home with his daughter Sarah and her family. His love of singing endured; he joined the Enchor East choir and returned to St. Andrew’s United Church, where he sang until last June.

Dad was an avid reader with a keen interest in politics. He took great pride in Tim’s career in elected public service. He loved political debates. and regularly watched HRM Council and NS Legislature meetings online. Dad read the newspaper every day and surfed continuously between CBC, CTV, and CNN news services to keep up on current events and issues.

Dad was a devoted husband and father, known for his loyalty, kindness, and quiet selflessness, always putting the needs of others before his own. Despite a lifetime of challenges, he remained determined and independent, staying active well into later life, a true testament to his strength and perseverence. He loved walking and dog walking Lucy. He was very proud of his granddaughters and delighted in attending their dance recitals, school concerts, sporting events, and graduations. He enjoyed spending time with all of our pets, and took great pleasure in good food and the tradition of family dinners.

Dad will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by many. A combination celebration of life, visitation and reception will be held at J.A. Snow Funeral Home Saturday, January 31, from 2:00–4:00 p.m., with remarks at 2:30 p.m. Donations may be made in lieu of flowers to St. Andrew’s United Church.

We extend special thanks to the staff, nurses and doctors at Dartmouth General Hospital and Shannex Opal Ridge Hall for their compassion and care.