Obituary of John Edward Keay

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of John Edward Keay on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the age of 82.

Born in New Glasgow on November 6, 1943, John was raised in Stellarton, Nova Scotia, where he learned early the values that would shape his life: hard work, humility, kindness, and devotion to family. He attended elementary school in Lourdes and Stellarton High School, and continued his education at St. Francis Xavier University studying business.

An entrepreneur at heart, John was proud to carry forward the family legacy. He joined Central Amusement Limited, founded in 1947 by his father, John Snr., and worked alongside his brothers and sisters as the business grew and evolved over the years. In 1970, he became President of the company, a role he carried with a strong sense of responsibility to both his family and those who worked with them. The family grew Central Amusement into the largest coin-operated amusement company in Atlantic Canada. The business continues today with a third generation at the helm.

On September 10, 1983, John married Sharon (Barnes). Their life together was built on enduring love, humour, and partnership. Anyone who knew John knew how deeply he cared for Sharon. She brought out the best in him, and he was a better man with her in his life.

Together they built a home that always had room for family, friends and an open door for anyone else who walked through. They raised five children and were blessed with eleven grandchildren, all of whom knew him simply as Grampie.

Christmas at the Keay home was something John truly loved. It stretched over several days, with the Keay and Barnes families and friends coming and going. There was always food on the table, laughter and conversation in every room, and young and old playing pinball machines and arcade games. 

John loved being down at the shore. From childhood summers in Chance Harbour, to Black Point when the children were young, and later Seafoam. He loved having family and friends around, and always made sure the pool was ready. He was forever asking, "Is it warm enough?" – and to John, that usually meant about 90 degrees.

John cherished his winters in Florida, spending much of his time in Siesta Key. It became a long-standing tradition shared with Sharon for 35 years. He especially loved going to spring training baseball games and seeing his beloved Blue Jays play.    

People often said John would do anything for anyone. He never looked for recognition. He was generous, loyal, and devoted to his family and friends.

John was predeceased by his parents, John Bernard and Joyce Keay, and his father and mother-in-law, Gordon and Mary Barnes.  

He will be deeply missed by Sharon and their children: Marilyn (Dave), Bill (Jordan), Anthony (Donna), Stephanie (Scott), and Louanne (Paul); and by his eleven cherished grandchildren: Andrew, Damon, Kelsey, Jayden, Alexandria, Zachary, Nicholas, Frances, Beatrice, DJ, and Eddie.

He is lovingly remembered by his siblings Richard (Betsy), Lonnie (Barb), Anne, Maureen (the late Art), and Jane. As well as his brother-in-laws Terry (Kelly) and the late David (Sadie).  

John is also remembered with love by his many nieces and nephews: Darren, Debbie, Angela, Beth, Andrew, Tracey Anne, Kerri Lynn, Kirk, Christian, Briden, Danny, Gordie, Brian, Debbie, Cory, and Kyle.

The family extends sincere thanks to the ICU and palliative care physicians and nurses at the Aberdeen Hospital for their care and compassion.

Donations in John’s memory may be made to the Pictou County Food Bank East or the Palliative Care unit at the Aberdeen Hospital.  

A funeral service for John will be held on Saturday, July 18th at 2:00pm, followed by a Celebration of Life from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Eagles Funeral Home located at 1611 North Main Street, Westville, NS. A private family interment will take place at a later date. We kindly request family flowers only.

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