John Laughlin Currie

John Laughie Currie passed peacefully from this world with his life-long love, Elizabeth, by his side, and surrounded by generations of family, comfort and love. John was a man who walked the land with a purpose and built a loving home in MacAdam’s Lake with his own two hands; he enjoyed weekend socials and was a faith-filled parishioner of St Mary's Parish in East Bay.

John grew up on the family farm, working alongside his twelve loving siblings, the progeny of Dougal and Effie Belle (Harrietha). It’s here where he honed his fine sense of humour and industriousness, and most especially, his commitment to family and friends that defined his life. With his passing, our hope is he now takes his place at the card table and lives in the laughter and camaraderie of his brothers and sisters.

John was the last Currie sibling and is predeceased by Mary (Foch Pickup), Angus (Theresa), Dan, Flora (Claude MacMullin), Tena (Michael MacInnis), Katie Mae, Michael (Rhodena), Theresa (Tom MacLean), Cecelia (Ray Gosbee), Jimmy, Caddie (Archie Fraser), and Francis “Buddy” (Sally). He is survived by sisters in laws Peggy and Shirley. The great gatherings enjoyed by, and with, this close-knit family, live on in our stories and remembrances.

John's L’s greatest and truest moments were shared with the absolute love of his life, Elizabeth. Their home in The Lake, is one that remains redolent with laughter and stories, music and dancing, much used decks of cards, farm animals, wood chips and endless cups of tea. It’s a place of open doors and open hearts welcoming friends, neighbours, nieces, nephews, cousins and kin.

John was deeply proud of his children John F (Crista) and Nadine (Joel), and he adored his grandchildren Leanna and Isabella who dearly miss their ‘Mutt’. He welcomed Lizzy’s sister, Margaret, to this home in 1982 and they were a constant trio in the community. His loyal companion, Buddy the dog, was never far from his side.

Dad was quick-witted, endearing, honest and proud, traits that came in handy as a taxi driver, steel worker, political advocate for the PCs of the Lakes, superintendent at the Dep’t of Highways and of course mill “boss”. He understood the meaning of a hard day’s work and was adept in many areas related to construction, mechanics, farming, and especially, as a sawyer. As a team, he and Lizzie navigated the realities of life as independent small lumbermill owners, where dad was known to be a generous employer who truly enjoyed the fellowship of the saw, and spending time in the woods. Whether it was driving the porter, traversing on foot, or on the skidoos with Lizzie, he was at home in the forest. But Dad’s ‘heaven on Earth’ was found behind the

carriage lever in the mill, plying his boards, getting the measure of each piece. He was a satisfied man when the sawdust was flying!

John’s roots were strong and his faith unwavering. He created a life dedicated to his family and community. He persevered when fate was unkind and found joy wherever he could—sharing a joke, pulling the occasional prank, calling a square set, playing a good hand of cards, or singing (trying to:) whenever the opportunity arose. Tough but fair, generous to a fault, John Laughie Currie embraced the fullness of the human condition and leaves behind a life well lived.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Greg Myatt, who administered to dad through it all, with great kindness and friendship, for over 40 years. Thank you to all of the friends, neighbors and family who were a source of comfort. And to the staff on 4E who provided kindness and care in his last days.

Visitation will take place on January 8th, 2026 at T.W. Curry’s in Sydney from 7-9. The funeral mass will be held on January 10th at 10 AM at St. Mary’s Parish Church in East Bay. A reception will follow directly afterwards. Thank you to the East Bay Firehall and St. Mary’s CWL for hosting this reception. Internment will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Sainte Anne de Beaupre Shrine.