It is with great sadness—and a few smiles at the memories—that the family of John “Boo” Jones, 80, announce his sudden passing at home in New Waterford on July 24, 2026.

Born May 21, 1946, in New Waterford, Boo was the son of the late Clifford and Pearl (McLeod) Jones. He is survived by his brother Joseph “Scramy” of Montreal and sister Louise of Ontario. He was predeceased by his brother Willie Jones and sisters Lillian Blewer and Viola Cadgen.

Boo is also predeceased by his lifelong friend and the mother of his children, Jean Smith of New Waterford. The two were a familiar duo—often found in Membertou at the machines, sometimes staying out until morning. They made memories there that lasted decades, and we take comfort knowing they’re likely reunited now, sharing a pack of cigarettes and arguing over who gets the lucky machine.

Boo leaves behind his beloved children: Tyler (Candace) of New Waterford and Amelia (Jennifer) of Louisdale. He was endlessly proud of Amelia becoming an LPN and was convinced she could do no wrong. He was also a devoted grandfather to Owen Smith of New Waterford, or “Olan” as he called him.

A true New Waterford original, Boo never missed a chance to remind people he was from “up 14 Yard,” where he spent his younger years. After becoming a father—at what he liked to joke was “a little late in life”—he settled on Miner Avenue. In his senior years, he became a fixture on Plummer Avenue, sitting on the benches with “the boys,” ready for a chat, a laugh, or a free meal (which he never once turned down).

Boo had a story for every occasion. Whether it was picking potatoes in PEI, adventures in Montreal, or tales from around town, he shared them with anyone willing to listen. His daughter carries many of those stories close to her heart, and countless people in New Waterford have one of their own about Boo. He lived 80 full years earthside, and he made sure they were memorable.

We know he’s on the other side now—likely with Ma—playing the machines, sharing a smoke, and hopefully enjoying life with two working knees at last. Goodbye feels too final, so instead we’ll say: see you later, old man.

Cremation has taken place. VISITATION ONLY FOR BOO WILL BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2026 FROM 2 P.M. TO 5 P.M. IN V.J. MCGILLIVRAY FUNERAL HOME, 380 SMITH STREET, NEW WATERFORD.

Donations can be made in memory to your charity of choice.