Reginal Murray Andrews

ANDREWS, Reginald Murray, Halifax, January 22, 1931 –June 20, 2013. Reg was 82 years old when he passed away peacefully at Northwood Manor in Halifax on June 20, 2013. He was born on January 22, 1931, son of the late Charles ‘Trapper’ and Irene (Singer) Andrews of Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia. Reg is survived by sister Helen (Byrne) Johnson of Dartmouth, brother Donnie (Shirley) Andrews of Stewiacke, many nieces and nephews and numerous friends, including those in Cuba who regard Reg as a member of their families. Reg was predeceased by his parents and two brothers, Keith and Clyde. Reg held a Master’s Degree in Psychology and was proud to say he was the first male graduate of Mount Saint Vincent University. He enjoyed a career as a teacher and administrator for the Halifax County School Board and remained passionate about education throughout his life. He spoke several languages including Spanish and Russian, while often volunteering time to help others learn English. He read extensively, painted, and used his creative talents to produce artistic note cards and other souvenirs of Nova Scotia, which he sold to raise funds for people in need. Another passion was travel. He visited Britain, Europe, Russia and most significantly, Cuba, where his quiet humanitarian efforts over the years improved the lives of hundreds of people. Many bargain shoppers will remember Reg from the Sunday Market at the Halifax Forum. For more than fifteen years he operated a weekly table near the door, selling ‘treasures’ to help disadvantaged families in Cuba. In addition to mailing them household articles, footwear and medicine, sometimes Reg literally paid for roofs over the heads of people who could not afford to construct them. In particular Reg personally created a sponsorship program which has for many years connected Cuban households with ones from Canada , the US or Britain. In 2011 he brought together a volunteer committee to continue this as the Hundred Fires of Friendship Fund. Reg had a razor-sharp mind, quick wit, strong-will and talents for attracting helpers, stretching a dollar and lifting up people who needed a fair chance to overcome barriers. Many immigrants to Canada found their first Nova Scotian friendship with Reg. He provided newcomers with one-to-one assistance: English lessons, refuge, and genuine interest in their culture, while introducing them to Canada. At home or abroad, Reg was open to the world, always keen to enjoy the personalities and experiences it put in his path. He made it a better place, while making that look fun, just because he thought it was the right thing to do. Family and friends will celebrate his life at a memorial service and reception to be held on Friday , June 28 at 10:30am , at Ettinger Funeral Home, 2812 Highway 2, Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia. Cremation has taken place. Private interment will be at Oakhill Cemetery . In lieu of flowers, and to continue his legacy, donations can be made to the Hundred Fires of Friendship Fund c/o of Patricia Clahane, 1674 Waverley Road, Waverley, Nova Scotia B2R 1Y1. Online condolences or your good memories of Reg can be left under his name at www. ettingerfuneralhome.com