Austin Gerald Wright

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father, Austin Gerald Wright, on July 19, 2020 at the Church of St. John & St. Stephen Nursing Home, with his loving family by his side.  He was born in Canterbury, NB on March 19, 1938 to the late Ethel (Wright) Bridgeo and for almost 28 years, he was married to the love of his life, Patricia (Wilby) Wright. 

Austin worked as a long-haul truck driver and heavy equipment operator for his entire life, even coming out of retirement to continue well into his 70’s.  He was a very determined man who taught himself how to perform his duties as a truck driver and operator, and even without proper education he was the go-to guy for the companies he worked for.  His drive and work ethic were like no other.  He and Pat had a fairy tale romance and doted on each other completely.  They liked to spend a lot of time with each other and go on long drives in the country or to Fort Howe to watch the ships come into the harbour with a cup of tea in their hands.  He was her “Honey Bug” and she was his “Sweety Pie” and they were fortunate to be able to still share a room, even after moving into the nursing home.  Austin was compassionate, kind, selfless and liked to make people laugh with his one liners or his stories from growing up in Canterbury.  Austin was a family man who quite simply, set the bar when it came to being a dad and grandfather. His children were always his priority.  He never let his children down and he was the best and most loving grampie.  He lived a long and full life, but he was so cherished and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. 

Along with his Sweety Pie, Pat, he is survived by his children, Jan (Gary) Radcliffe, Holly (Bruce) Barton, Tina (Mark) Stokes and Austin Jr.; 8 grandchildren, Krystal (Chris) Kindred, Christopher (Cheyanne) Radcliffe, Lewis (Jennifer) Donovan, Andrea (Josh) Donovan, Amanda (Greg) Barton, Lianne (Nick) Watts, Lindsay (Scott) Smith and Shannon (Mike) Byers; 11 great grandchildren, Lucas, Jakob, Taylor, Harper, Lexie, Jase, Carson, Arizona, Arlo, Lily-Anne, Roux-Bea and Baby Watts on the way; many siblings and nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. 

He was predeceased by many siblings.

His family would like to take this opportunity to extend a very deep and gratitude filled thank you to the doctors, nurses, staff and volunteers of Church of St. John & St. Stephen Nursing Home, especially Nicki, Nicole and Heather, for the gracious and compassionate care provided to Austin for the last of his living days.  Especially with the pandemic, the staff became his and their extended family and it was so appreciated.  Your kindness will never be forgotten.

Arrangements are entrusted to Fundy Funeral Home, 230 Westmorland Road (646-2424).  In keeping with Austin’s wishes, no visitation or funeral service will be held.  A graveside ceremony will take place on Friday, July 24, 2020 at 2pm in Cedar Hill Extension Cemetery for those who would like to attend.  Physical distancing guidelines will be followed and masks are encouraged.    For those who wish, donations in his memory can be made to the Church of St. John & St. Stephen Nursing Home or to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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