It is with heartfelt sadness that the family of Vincent Ernest "Vince" Galbraith announce his peaceful passing on Saturday, July 18, 2026, in Saint John, New Brunswick. Born in Saint John on February 20, 1944, Vince was the beloved husband of Hilda (Jenkins) Galbraith and the son of the late Glendon and Marie (Wilson) Galbraith.
Above all else, Vince was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, friend, and faithful servant to his community. He had an extraordinary gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and heard. Whether you met him once or had known him for decades, chances are you left the conversation feeling a little better than when it began.
Vince is lovingly remembered by his wife, Hilda; his children, Trent (Wendy) Galbraith, Erica (Sean) Lane, and Angela (J.D.) Woods; his sister, Glenda Tonge (Robert); his cherished grandchildren, Grace Woods, Eva Woods, William Woods, Zachary Lane, Jacob Lane, Jordan Galbraith, and Caleb Galbraith; and his great-grandson, Walter "Wally" McCormack. Along with several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Vince was predeceased by his beloved grandson, Thomas Woods, and his brother, Gordon Galbraith.
Throughout his life, Vince found fulfillment in serving others. Following high school, he began his career with CAA, where he worked as a Travel Consultant and Service Manager. He later became a fundraiser with the New Brunswick Protestant Orphanage, managed a telephone answering service, and went on to serve as Manager of Fundraising for the New Brunswick Heart Foundation. His entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to establish and operate Galbraith Florist, where he became well known for helping families celebrate life's happiest moments and find comfort during its most difficult ones.
In 2008, Vince answered another calling when he became a Designated Lay Minister with The United Church of Canada. His ministry was far more than a title—it was a reflection of the compassion and kindness he carried throughout his life. Through worship, pastoral care, hospital visits, and countless conversations, Vince walked alongside people during some of life's most joyful and most difficult moments. His faith, gentle spirit, and willingness to simply be present left a lasting impression on the many lives he touched.
In addition to his ministry and community service, Vince was a proud and dedicated member of the Orange Lodge for 70 years. His membership was something he held close to his heart, and the friendships, fellowship, and traditions he shared through the Lodge remained a meaningful part of his life. He took great pride in being part of an organization that reflected his values of faith, service, and community.
Vince spent the majority of his life in Lorneville, a community he loved deeply and served wholeheartedly. Affectionately and un-officially known as the "Mayor of Lorneville," he was always ready to lend a hand, share a laugh, or bring people together. At Lorneville United Church, he faithfully served as Superintendent of Sunday School and founded the church's youth group, encouraging generations of young people to build friendships and grow in their faith.
An avid cyclist, Vince rarely sat still. More importantly, he believed every mile could make a difference. In support of children battling cancer, he turned his passion for cycling into fundraising, inspiring others through his determination and generosity. At the age of 76, Vince cycled an incredible 439 kilometres over 31 days, raising thousands of dollars for children's cancer research in loving memory of his grandson, Thomas. It was a challenge that perfectly reflected who Vince was—a man who transformed personal loss into hope for others.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Vince's life during visitation at Fundy Funeral Home, 230 Westmorland Road, Saint John, on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 1:30 PM. A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. in the Fundy Chapel, with Rev. John Roy officiating. A reception will follow the service, after which a private family interment will take place at Lorneville & Seaview Cemeteries.
For those wishing, memorial donations in Vince's memory may be made to the Thomas Woods Memorial Park, Harmony United Church (Worship Committee) or a charity of your choice.