Obituary of Virgil Robert Dearman

Virgil Robert Dearman, of Wolfville, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2020, at the age of 91, with his loving wife, Anna, by his side, just 11 days short of their 67th wedding anniversary. Virgil was born on January 28, 1929 in Clarkesville, Hants County; and was the son of the late Wilbert and Blanch (Fletcher) Dearman.

A graduate of Windsor Academy, Virgil taught school for one year in Upper Rawdon before attending Normal College in Truro. Two years later, after teaching in Sweet's Corner and Newport Station, he and Anna McPhee were married in West Gore. Both taught school in Lower Vaughans before moving to The Valley, where Virgil attended Acadia University while Anna taught nearby. After Acadia, and a year of teaching in Highbury and Kentville, Virgil became one of the original staff of Horton District High School, where he continued to teach until his retirement.

When the children were young, the family spent summers camping, once travelling all the way across Canada with their tent trailer. Virgil also enjoyed fishing and hunting, and, in winter, could often be seen at the Acadia Rink watching hockey. He was a lifelong sports enthusiast. He was never more at home than when he was under the hood of a car, often accompanied by a dear family friend, the late Tim Weatherbee.

In their later years, Virgil and Anna enjoyed many extended weekends at their beloved cottage on The Gulf Shore, often joined by family and friends around the campfire. Shortly before his retirement, Virgil took a woodworking course, and immediately began building beautiful pine furniture for family and friends. His wooden toys have been well-used by the grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Anna; daughters Susan Gillis (Joseph), Alison Mercer, Lisa Dearman; son Peter (Anne Lin); his grandsons Matthew Mercer, Brian Gillis, Michael Gillis, Devon Webb, Owen Wilbert Dearman, and his only granddaughter, Eryn Webb; sister-in-law Barbara; special nieces and nephew Starlene (Brian) Archibald, Shauna Dearman, and Francis "Frank" (Sheila) Dearman. Virgil is also survived by a special friend, Paul Webb, who was like a son to him, and by David Russell, and Steven Mercer.

Besides his parents, Virgil was predeceased by his brother Wilbert "Junior" Dearman, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and recently, his son-in-law, Joseph Gillis.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Valley Regional Hospital, Family First Medical, Valley Home Care, Pastor Scott Kindred-Barns. Special thanks to Foot Care Nurse, Michell Petitpas, and Dr. Peter Segato, for their care over the years. 

Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held in the Wolfville United Baptist Church. A Committal Service will be at the West Gore Disciples of Christ Church. Both services will be announced at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice.   Arrangements have been entrusted to Serenity Funeral Home, 34 Coldbrook Village Park Dr., Coldbrook, NS, B4P 1B9 (902-679-2822).