Blair Alexander Gillis

Born on January 24, 1967, in Grand Mira South, Blair was the beloved son of the late John and Anne Marie Gillis. He was a man whose life was defined by hard work, unwavering kindness, and a quick wit that could brighten any room. Tough on the outside but a true teddy bear at heart, Blair had a way of making people laugh with his perfectly timed remarks and playful sense of humor. No matter the situation, he always had something funny to say.

Blair spent 25 years driving trucks for Scotsburn Dairy, traveling the roads of Cape Breton Island and making countless friends everywhere he went. He later worked in construction alongside his good friends Lenny and Roddie before finding his home at J.K. Marine, where he proudly managed the lobster pound in his final years.

A farmer at heart, Blair never lost the knowledge and love for cattle that he gained growing up on the family dairy farm. He found happiness in life’s simple pleasures—a drive down the highway, a hard day’s work, and quiet evenings curled up with his beloved three-legged dog, Butterscotch, a who he affectionately referred to as “Slurps.”

Above all else, Blair loved Gerilyn. He shared more than 15 wonderful years with her, his life partner and best friend. Together they dreamed of a simple retirement taking scenic drives around Nova Scotia with “Slurps” happily along for the ride. Gerilyn will forever hold Blair close to her heart.

Left to cherish his memory are his devoted partner, Gerilyn Boone; his sister, Florence Gillis; his children, Andrew (Haley), John, and Megan (Bryan); his stepchildren, Tessa Forrest (Matt) and Brandon Forrest (Jess); his cherished step-grandchildren, Joel and Olivia Forrest and Kayden Slade; his beloved dog, “slurps”; and his many cousins, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him.

Blair was predeceased by his father, John Gillis, and his mother, Anne Marie Gillis (MacDonald).

Blair lived his life putting others before himself, and in the end, that generosity became his greatest legacy. Through the gift of organ donation, he saved the lives of three people. Even in his final moments, Blair was thinking of others. He died a hero, and his kindness will continue to live on in the families forever changed by his extraordinary gift.

Blair’s family hopes that his story will inspire others to consider registering as organ donors the next time they renew their health card. One simple decision has the power to save lives and provide hope during unimaginable loss.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to everyone who cared for Blair throughout this journey. To Courtney and Lesley who were there to help Gerilyn and Blair immediately in an emergency. To the paramedics on scene who acted fast. Thank you to Dr. Jeff Power and the Emergency Department staff at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital who were there when we needed them most, the ICU staff at Cape Breton Regional Hospital, the Life Flight team, and the organ donation coordinators who guided our family with such compassion during an incredibly difficult time. We are especially grateful to the staff of the QEII ICU (5.2), particularly Emily, Terri, Anju, Jessica, and Dr. Sarah McMullen, whose exceptional care, kindness, and support meant more than words can express. Heartfelt thanks also go to Lisa and Joe for their generous hospitality while our family was in Halifax. Many thanks to Shoppers Drug Mart Sydney River staff, and lastly, thank you to the Delta Drive neighbours who have always been a wonderful support system to Blair and Gerilyn, this time no less.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, July 15 at 11am at St. Margaret's of Scotland Church in Grand Mira South. Inurnment to follow in the parish cemetery. For those unable to attend, the service will be viewable through the link at twcurry.com. Memories and condolences can be shared with the family by visiting twcurry.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in Blair’s memory may be made to the Cape Breton SPCA, a fitting tribute to a man whose heart always had room for animals—especially his faithful companion, "Slurps."

Blair will be remembered for his laughter, his generosity, his unwavering work ethic, and the kindness he quietly showed every day. His absence leaves an immeasurable void, but the love he gave and the lives he touched will never be forgotten.

As Blair would so often say, with a bow of his head and the tip of his hat, “Take care, sir.”