Pius Roderick Joseph Campbell

It is with the deepest sadness, that we announce the death of Pius Roderick Joseph Campbell of Jamesville, NS. Pius passed away peacefully on April 19, 2025, at the Victoria County Memorial Hospital, in his ninetieth year.

Pius was born in Jamesville West, Victoria County, Nova Scotia on June 16, 1935, to the late Neil J.R. and Mary Sarah (MacNeil) Campbell. He grew up playing an integral role working the family farm where he built a lasting connection to the land and cemented his sense of place. After completing high school in Iona, Pius attended trades school in North Sydney, NS. He launched his career in automotive repair at Antigonish Motors and then R.J. Louge, Sydney. This was followed by over twenty years teaching automotive repair at the University College of Cape Breton. Pius was a well-respected instructor, holding his students to high expectations. Throughout his retirement, whenever Pius would encounter a former student they would share great stories about working with him; many often said that if Pius praised your work, you must have done an outstanding job!

Pius’ family and friends will remember him for many things; his strength, consistency, self-discipline, intelligence and humour, but most of all his love and care for his family. Often perceived as a quiet fellow, Pius never missed a trick and was always ready to win you over with his sense of humour and witty banter. He was a man of strong faith and this permeated all aspects of his life. Proud of his Scottish heritage, Pius attended many a concert or dance, over the years. Though not a musician himself, he enjoyed a good tune and encouraged his family to pursue music. He was very clannish and knowledgeable about the history of his family and neighbours. Pius was adept at letting you know how you were connected; he was always able to share this with a good story!

Pius was very active throughout his life, always with a project or plans. One of his passions was antique cars. Over the years, he restored a number of vehicles; he enjoyed taking them out for a drive and sharing them on the car show circuit. If you wanted to get Pius talking, start talking cars and he could chat for hours!

Living in Sydney for many years, Pius was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish. In his retirement, he moved back to Jamesville and was an active member of St. Columba Parish, Iona, NS. In recent years, he made his home at MacLeod House in Baddeck, NS.

Pius is survived by his wife of 60 years, Pauline (Mackley) Campbell of Jamesville/Baddeck, NS, his daughter Mary-Elizabeth Kaiser and his three beloved grandchildren; James, Charlotte and Katherine Kaiser, all of Calgary, AB. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Walter MacNeil of Sydney/Grand Narrows, NS.

Pius is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members. Pius was blessed to collect many true friends throughout his lifetime, most became like family to him.

Along with his parents and in-laws, Ray and Mamie (Bryden) Mackley, Pius was predeceased by his six siblings, Kathleen, Teresa (Bill McCabe), Fr. Jim, Jack, Frank (Jacqui) and Florence (Walter MacNeil). He was also predeceased by his son-in-law, Chris Kaiser.

The family would like to thank the medical staff of Victoria County Memorial Hospital in Baddeck for their ongoing care. The friends made at MacLeod House in Baddeck have always been an amazing support; Pius valued your friendship and attention.

Pius will be remembered by many as an honorable gentleman. He was well thought of by many. A time of visitation is scheduled from 11:30am - 1:30pm on Friday, August 8th in St Iona Church Hall. A Mass of Christian Celebration is planned for 2pm on Friday, August 8th at St. Columba Church, Iona with inurnment to follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery, MacKinnon Harbour. Condolences, memories, and photos may also be shared and viewed at twcurry.com.

Donations, in Pius’ memory, can be made to a charity of your choice.