James Ervin Waye

James Ervin Waye Jr (Buddy)., age 86, of Sydney Mines, passed away peacefully at home on January 22, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born in Sydney Mines on June 20, 1939, to James and Margaret Waye, James grew up with a quiet resilience and gentle humour that remained with him throughout his life. He spent nearly 30 years working as the belt operator with the Cape Breton Development Corporation, where his steady hands, patience, and practical nature served him well.

Stoic by temperament and known for a dry, thoughtful wit, James was the type of man who didn’t need to command a room to make an impression. His quick whimsical one-liners often sparked a grin, and sometimes a few seconds of contemplation, before the laughter caught up. He liked to keep things simple, meaningful, and just a touch clever.

In his younger years, he could often be found at league bowling or softball games, or throwing darts on Friday nights with the boys — activities shared more for the companionship than the competition. As time passed, life’s joys became quieter but no less cherished: cheering for the Toronto Blue Jays and Detroit Red Wings, tackling his daily crossword puzzles, scratching a few tickets, and taking his faithful dog, Lady Bug, on their daily walks. He spoke little, but his love for that dog said plenty.

James is survived by his sisters Alana Waye of Sydney Mines and Sarah Anne Tucker of Newfoundland; his five children, Paul James Waye, Harold Edward Waye, Bonnie Lou McEachern, Anne Deneice Tucker, and Kenneth Gordon Waye; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren also many nieces and nephews — all of whom carry pieces of his humour, resilience, and quiet strength. Though his presence will be deeply missed, our family"s loss is Heaven’s gain.Besides his parents,James was predeceased by his brother Kelvin sisters Jessie Butts,Katherine Gillis and Laverne Boutilier

Memorials may be made to the SPCA or to a charity of one’s choice.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses who provided compassionate care during James’s final days. Special thanks also to Manning and the staff of J.M. Jobes Funeral Home for their dedicated and empathetic assistance.

Cremation has taken place. A family graveside service will be held at a later time.

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