Eric Joseph Gillie

It is with broken hearts and deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Eric Gillie, age 67, of North Sydney, on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at home. Eric was born in Mulgrave, Nova Scotia, and was the son of the late Bernie and Euenia Gillie.

Eric had a warm heart and a true love for sharing stories, especially memories from his childhood, which he proudly passed on to his granddaughters. He enjoyed listening to and talking with friends on his CB radio and treasured the many conversations he shared with his close friend and brother-in-law, James Brown. Eric loved to laugh and made it easy for others to laugh with him, sharing joy through his quick remarks and lighthearted humour.

Above all else, Eric’s greatest joy was the life he shared with his beloved partner of over 34 years, Cathy Williams. She was his constant, his other half, and the person he loved most.

Eric is survived by his devoted partner, Cathy Williams; his son, Jason Williams; his daughter, Alice Williams (Floyd); his brother, Bernie Gillie (Theresa); and his cherished grandchildren: Katie Williams (Brandon), Taylor Williams (Michael), Payton Williams, Sam Williams, Halen Williams (Corey), Jada Williams (Ethan), Georgia Boutilier, Bailey Boutilier, Riley Boutilier, and Josh Donovan. He will also be lovingly remembered by his great-grandchildren: Sophia Bell, Aubree Bell, Brooke Mackeigan, Olivia Mackeigan, and Hunter Day; his close cousin, Brenda Colburn; and many other family and friends.

Eric was predeceased by his parents, Bernie and Euenia Gillie, as well as Justice Noble and Talia Forrest.

A visitation will be held on January 3rd from 1:00–2:00 p.m. at J.M. Jobes Funeral Home, Sydney Mines, with a celebration of life to follow at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB).

Eric leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will live on forever in the hearts of his family and friends.

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