Obituary of Bill Hart

Surrounded by the love of his family, James William Hart peacefully passed away at the age of 89, bringing to a close a life well lived on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at the Sussex Health Centre, Sussex, NB. Born March 15, 1937, in Saint John, NB, he was the son of the late Rev. Canon William and Beatrice (Wilson) Hart.

Born the oldest of five boys, Bill learned the values of hard work, responsibility, and family from an early age. After graduating from RCS, he attended forestry school, where he developed a lifelong love of the woods. He spent many years working in the pulp industry, clearing land for hydro projects, airports, and shopping centres. When we were kids he trucked Christmas trees to the States. He also spent time driving a feed truck, mixing feed for local farms. No matter the job, Bill believed in putting in a full day's work and giving it his best.

After marrying, Bill settled in Norton, where they raised their family. In 1978, he started the family hog farm and growing turnips & squash.

Bill's loud, gruff demeanour could easily fool you, but those who truly knew him understood that beneath his rugged exterior was an incredibly kind and gentle heart. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to a neighbour, a friend, or anyone in need, never expecting anything in return.

His softer side became even more evident with the arrival of each of his 9 grandsons.  Whether he was playing "Mean Cow," cheering them on, or simply spending time together, he was their biggest fan. Then the great-grandchildren started which were every bit as important to him.

Dad found his greatest happiness in the simple things—time spent with family, catching up with friends, attending fiddle music gatherings, and going to church. 

He was a volunteer on the Norton Fire Department for over 50 years. He loved sharing stories, enjoying a good visit, and talking about the people who meant the most to him.

Bill's life was built on hard work, generosity, faith, and a pride for his family. His legacy lives on through his children, grandsons, and great-grandchildren, who were proud to call him Dad, Grampy, and Grampy Bill. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in our hearts

Bill is survived by his children: Lynne Roy (Gerry), Krista Chamberlain (Bob) and Jamie Hart (Jennifer) all of Midland, NB; grandchildren: Matthew (Erin), Christopher (Melissa), Adam (Courtney), Barry (Vanessa), Geoffrey (Tylr), Jackson (Morgan), Jacob, and Isaac (Ava); 14 great-grandchildren; mother of his children Sandra Hart; brothers: Dr Stephen Hart (Barbara) of Fredericton, NB and David Hart of Dartmouth, NS; sister-in-law Alexis Hart of Dartmouth, NS; as well as several nieces, nephews and extended family. In addition to his parents, Bill was predeceased by his brothers: John Hart, and Peter Hart, sister-in-law Anne Hart and his grandson Ian Chamberlain.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Sherwood’s Funeral Home (506-839-2156), 18 Scovil Road, Norton, NB where the visitation will take place on Monday, July 20, 2026 from 4:00 to 7:00pm. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 11:00am at St. Simon and St. Judes Anglican Church (11 Route 875, Belleisle Creek NB).

Donations in memory of Bill may be made to St. Simon and St. Jude’s Anglican Church, the Midland Cemetery or the Norton Fire Department. Personal condolences to the family and charitable donations may be made through: SherwoodsFuneralHome.com