Obituary of Russell Wayne Boyle

Obituary: Russell Boyle
BOYLE, Russell - September 20, 1945-August 12, 2024
Determined to witness another season of his beloved blueberries, Russ fulfilled that wish before peacefully succumbing to his long battle with cancer on Monday, surrounded by his family at home.

A gifted and dedicated math teacher, Russ spent his career at Halifax West High School and Halifax Grammar School, where his sharp mind and dry sense of humour left a lasting mark on countless students. His gruff exterior was well known, but those who knew him best knew that beneath it was a man with a heart of gold.

His influence went beyond the classroom, with many former students keeping in touch, sharing their lives with the man who had helped shape them. He was a fierce competitor at bridge and a dedicated basketball referee and assignor; roles through which he made many lifelong friends.

Russ appreciated the simple things in life: the Yankees, ice cream, fishing and gardening in Smith’s Cove, where his legendary blueberry bushes will forever symbolize his love for his cottage. He often said that the three best decisions in his life were planting blueberries, buying the cottage, and marrying Cathy – though he was quick to add, “not necessarily in that order”.

A dedicated family man, he was always present for his children’s activities growing up. Over the past year, he especially cherished every moment with his loved ones. Russ will forever live in the hearts of his loving wife, Cathy, and their three children, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His daily check-ins, encouragement, and unflinching honesty will be missed by his children, Jennifer (Jason) Branton, Cindy (Matthew Foot), and Matthew (Kate). He will be fondly remembered by his sister, Marilyn Boyle, and his lifelong friends. He was predeceased by his father, Philip Boyle and mother Vola Derbyshire, brother, Terry, and sister, Carole.

Russ, the perpetual teacher, taught us to pause, to savour and to invest in the things that truly matter: learning, love, and family. He will be dearly missed.
Funeral service will be held Friday, August 16, 2024 at 4pm at Saint Benedict Parish, 45 Radcliffe Dr., Halifax, NS; officiated by close friend Father Keith Billard. Reception to follow.

 In lieu of flowers, the family has established a scholarship in Russ's honor for high school students who demonstrate both financial need and a deep passion for mathematics. Donations can be made via email transfer to russboylescholarship@gmail.com.
Interment will take place at a later date at Soulis Cemetery in Smiths Cove —Russ’ favourite place in this wonderful world.