John Hugh Campbell

With broken hearts, we sadly announce the passing of John Hugh Campbell, New Glasgow and Iona, Cape Breton, on August 3rd, 2020, in the Valley View Villa.  Born in Iona, he was the son of Arthur and Mary Campbell.  

Hughie was a proud graduate and alumni of St.F.X., graduating in 1958.  He started his teaching career at various schools in Cape Breton - Grand Mira, Eskasoni, Johnstown, and Washabuck.  He then moved to New Glasgow, teaching in Stellarton, and then continuing as Guidance Counselor at New Glasgow High School, retiring in 1994.  Mr. Campbell was known to teach hundreds of students to drive.  Did he have some stories about the adventures that his driving students took him on!  As well, Mr. Campbell ran the GED Exams in New Glasgow for many years, assisting those to complete their high school diploma.  Depending on who you spoke to, depended on what he was known as - John Hugh, John, Hughie, Hughie Arthur, Mr. Campbell, Dad, and Grampy!

John Hugh’s passions included devotion to his family, spending time at his Cape Breton home every summer, and serving his church.  He was a faithful member of the Knights of Columbus and was meticulous with their traditions.  He held several positions - State Warden, Grand Knight, District Deputy and Faithful Navigator.

John Hugh is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sylvia (MacNeil), and his three daughters:  Carol (Chris Waugh), Darlene (Phillip Caulier), and Sherry Lee (Dave Liem).  Hughie was a man of few words but this did not stop his love from being shown to his grandchildren, of whom he was so proud: Myriska, Kali, Brett, Lauren and Kaitlin.  He is also survived by his sisters, Dena MacDonald and Eulalia Campbell, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Words cannot express our appreciation for the wonderful neighbours, friends, and Valley View Villa and Aberdeen Hospital staff.

Visitation will take place 2-4 and 7-9 pm Thursday, August 6, at R.H. Porter Funeral Home, 55 Almont Avenue, New Glasgow. Those attending must wear a mask and physical distancing must be respected. A private Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. John the Baptist Church. Knights of Columbus Council 1667 are asked to meet outside at the Statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary at St. John the Baptist Church at 12 pm on Friday, August 7 for prayers. Burial will take place at St. Columba Church Cemetery in Iona at 6 pm on Friday. Should there be an interest in doing so, the family respectfully requests donations to St. John the Baptist Parish. 

"He was so proud and spoke of his summer job during his time at St. F.X., when he would paint the Grand Narrows – Iona Train Bridge, a feat many would not do (a thought from Kali)"