James Darryl Pistone

Born in Antigonish on 27th of March, 1949. He was the son of the late James Vincent and Marguerite (Murphy) Pistone both of Sydney. Darryl lived most of his life in Halifax and he attended St. Patrick’s High School. He received his BA and BEd from St. Francis Xavier University. During his summers Darryl worked for Parks Canada at the Alexander Bell Museum, Citadel Hill and Annapolis Royal in Nova Scotia and at Fort Amherst in PEI.

Following graduation he taught for 32 years in Halifax City Schools – Central Spryfield, Clarence A. Beckett, John W. MacLeod, Le Marchant/St. Thomas and he retired from Sir Charles Tupper in 2005. He was mainly a resource teacher and one of the first 12 teachers who introduced Reading Recovery in Nova Scotia. He was a dedicated teacher who looked forward almost every day, to going to school to teach. Following retirement he was a consultant with the provincial Department of Education working on assessment.

Darryl had a thirst for knowledge and while teaching he completed 3 Masters degrees – Reading Speciality from Mt. St. Vincent University, Administration from Dalhousie University and Guidance from Acadia University.

Darryl was very involved professionally. He was president of the local International Reading Association. During his career he served as President of the Halifax Local of the NSTU and was on the Provincial Executive of the NSTU.

He received the Dolce Medal from the archdiocese for his work in religious education. Darryl was a board member of the Alexandra Children’s Centre. He treasured his summers spent at the “Waeg” where he enjoyed tennis, swimming and games of scrabble. Darryl was a lifelong reader and a member of the “Untitled Book Club”. In retirement he took up duplicate bridge and became a director and teacher of bridge. He achieved bronze life master and traveled to several US cities to play. Darryl became a tour guide for Ambassatours Grey Line and thoroughly enjoyed this work.

One of his great pleasures was travel. He was to every continent except Antarctica and his favorite trip was to Australia.

He is survived by his sister Donna (David O’Leary), nephews Shaun (Cheryl Teed) O’Leary and their son Ryan and Stephen (Marie- Claire Lauzon) O’Leary and their son Thomas. Also, Mary MacDonald a better friend no-one could have.

Darryl was an active member of St. Thomas Aquinas & Canadian Martyrs parishes. His strong faith supported him throughout his life and especially his last few months battling cancer. He was most thankful for his many friends from all aspects of his life who assisted him during his illness.

The family and friends wish to thank the incredible doctors and staff who gave exceptional care during his illness and particularly during the last few weeks. Darryl said that while in hospital he felt like he was in a 5 star hotel.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, September 29 from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm in J. A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax (455-0531). Funeral service to be held on Monday, September 30 at 10:00 am in Canadian Martyrs Church, 5900 Inglis Street, Halifax. In lieu of flowers, donations in Darryl’s memory can be made to a charity of your choice. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.jasnowfuneralhome.com.