Obituary of Willa Dair
Where there’s a Willa, there’s a way!
Willa Dair
June 9, 1944 – June 3, 2026
Willa Dair passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026, in New Glasgow, Pictou County, Nova Scotia, at the age of 81. She lived a life marked by curiosity, compassion, creativity, and adventure, leaving behind a legacy that will continue through the generations she inspired.
Born in Montreal on June 9, 1944, Willa's childhood was anything but ordinary. Raised by two Bohemian artist parents who were both communists and adventurers, she was taught from an early age to think independently, question convention, and embrace the world with an open mind. These values became central to who she was and were gifts she gratefully passed on to her children, who in turn have passed them on to their own children.
Throughout her life, Willa called many places home, including Montreal, Toronto, Cambridge, Huntsville, Calgary, Pictou County, Holland, and Jamaica. Wherever she lived, she formed deep and lasting connections with people from all walks of life. Her generosity was legendary—she would gladly give half of what she had if she believed someone needed support. Many people around the world were touched by her kindness, compassion, and willingness to help others.
A true trailblazer, Willa built a successful career at a time when few women held senior sales positions. As National Sales Manager for Coppercraft during the 1970s and 1980s, she broke barriers and forged her own path with determination. Her greatest joy was when she was able to speak about her father, Carl Dair. Whether speaking to a university class or her family and friends, she shared the great pride and respect she had for his artistic journey. A ground breaking graphic designer who designed ‘Cartier’, Canada’s first typeface which was released in 1967 for the centennial. This typeface is used on the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and is a great source of pride!
Growing up surrounded by artists and creatives nurtured a lifelong love of art and design. Whether appreciating beauty or creating it herself, Willa found joy and meaning in the creative world. She was also open about her struggles with mental health and set a powerful example for her children by emphasizing the importance of caring for one's emotional and mental well-being.
Though she was raised in a Jewish and communist household, Willa found the Baha'i Faith later in life. Her spirituality became a deeply important part of who she was, providing comfort, purpose, and peace through life's darkest moments.
Travel was another lifelong passion. Inspired by her parents, who drove her and her sister throughout Europe in a small car while living in Holland during the 1950s, Willa maintained a love of exploration throughout her life. She embraced new places, cultures, and experiences whenever she had the opportunity. Japan was a magical trip!
In 2018, Willa moved to New Glasgow to be closer to her growing family. Her son was expecting his first child, and she wanted to be present for those precious early years. Though distance sometimes separated her from family living abroad, her love for her children and grandchildren was unwavering.
Willa found joy in simple pleasures and lifelong passions. She was a devoted Coronation Street fan, faithfully following the residents of Weatherfield for more than fifty years. She introduced her daughter to the show in the 1970s, beginning a shared journey of drama, laughter, and intrigue on the cobbles. Her daughter promised to stay caught up no matter when Willa left us, though sadly Willa never learned the identity of the latest murderer.
She was also an enthusiastic Olympic devotee. During the Games, she would transform her living room into mission control, renting large-screen televisions, organizing themed evenings, consulting atlases, and tracking flags from around the world. She celebrated stories of perseverance and community, often shedding tears over remarkable athletic achievements and displays of human spirit.
Perhaps no symbol represented Willa more than the dove. She collected them throughout her life because they embodied her deepest belief: that peace is possible. While humanity occasionally disappointed her, she never stopped believing in kindness, understanding, and the possibility of a better world.
Willa's final month was filled with love. She spent cherished time connecting with her children and grandchildren, and enjoyed many bowls of homemade mushroom shop.
She leaves behind her beloved children, Rodger and Carla (Roy); her cherished grandchildren, Campbell, Alistair (Fiona), Keighley, and Andrew; and countless family members, friends, and loved ones whose lives were enriched by knowing her.
Willa will be remembered for her generosity, courage, creativity, faith, sense of adventure, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people. Her love continues to live on in all those fortunate enough to have known her.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to any not-for-profit that means something to you or your community.
A graveside service for Willa Dair will be held at Riverton Cemetery, Riverton, Pictou County, on June 12 at 1pm ADT. All are welcome to attend.