W. Bruce Gillis, K.C., U.E., F.S.A. (Scot) William “Bruce” Gillis, aged 79, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Valley Regional Hospital in Kentville. A man of many talents, accomplishments, and stories, Bruce leaves behind a legacy that his family will proudly carry forward.

Born on August 30, 1946, in Saint John, New Brunswick, Bruce was the son of Donald Archibald Gillis and Mary (Teed) Gillis. He graduated from Middleton High School in 1963, receiving the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal and earning a full scholarship to McGill University. He completed his Bachelor of Science in 1967. During his time at McGill, Bruce embraced student life wholeheartedly—playing lead trumpet in the concert band, joining the cheerleading team, and serving as Features Editor of The McGill Daily.

Bruce continued his studies at Dalhousie University, earning his LLB in 1971, followed by a Master of Laws from the London School of Economics and Political Science in 1972. At Dalhousie, he served as President of the Dalhousie Student Union, sat on the Board of Governors, worked with Student Aid, joined the Dalhousie Scuba Club, and immersed himself in campus life.

He was admitted to the Nova Scotia Bar in May 1971 and was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1986. Over the course of his career, Bruce served on numerous boards, acted as an adjudicator for Small Claims Court from 1980 to 1992, and remained deeply engaged in politics. For 50 years, he maintained a private general law practice in Middleton and served as solicitor for both the Town of Middleton and the County of Annapolis for more than two decades.

Bruce was devoted to his family and lived life entirely on his own terms. He loved music, played guitar and drums, rode horses, never missed a Saturday crossword, an avid reader and had a fondness for snacks. His peach trees were a source of pride and mild obsession. A true social spirit, he made friends wherever he went—especially among the members of The Benevolent Funipendulous Society of Nova Scotia Logotechnicians. He delighted in exploring cookbooks, discovering new recipes, and enjoying dinners out with family and friends. A lifelong Montreal Canadiens fan, he rarely missed a game. He also cherished wearing his full Highland kit and held fond memories of his travels to Scotland. Whether roaming the woods, tinkering with tools, or cruising the Valley in his sports cars, Bruce embraced every day with curiosity and enthusiasm.

His volunteer contributions were extensive. In 2022, he was awarded the Sovereign’s Volunteer Medal by the Governor General of Canada. He coached Bridgetown Minor Hockey for many years and played drums with the 14 Wing Greenwood Air Force Pipe Band for 35 years, where he earned the rank of Drum Sergeant.

Bruce married Deborah Smith on September 18, 1982, in Middleton, Nova Scotia. He is survived by his wife, Deborah Ann Gillis; his children, Shawna Jardine (Rob) of Saskatoon, Paul Jones (Mary) of Berwick, William “Rob” Gillis (Erica) of Halifax, and Kendra Logan (Josh) of Stewiacke; and his grandchildren, Calum and Duncan Jardine, Michael and William Jones, and Colby, Brody, and Parker Logan.

A private graveside service will be held in May 2026 for immediate family, with a celebration of life to follow at a later date.