Otis James "O.J." Darris

Otis James "O.J." Darris -  73, of Coldbrook, Kings County, passed away Wednesday, February 11, 2015 in the Valley Regional Hospital, Kentville. Born in Digby, he was a son of the late Otis Sr. and Mary (Hazelton) Darris. He served with the Canadian Armed Forces for 23 years in the Signal Corps, later working in the Communications and Research branch. He then worked with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador in various departments, including Justice, Health and Education. He was an active member of the Kentville United Baptist Church, serving in many capacities. He was a member of the Kentville Masonic Lodge No. 58 and affiliated with several other Lodges. He was also a member of the Shrine and his red "Shrine truck" and scooter were parade favorites. He is survived by his best friend, soul mate and wife, the former Isabel "Belle" Looker; two daughters, Yvonne Darris, Kentville and Karinne Darris, Mt. Albert, Ontario; three sisters, Helen Campbell, Niagara Falls; Brenda (Ron) Kelly, Shubenacadie; Joan (Bob) Foster, Charlottetown; brother, Gary (Elaine) Darris, Kentville; grandson, Kenny, Ontario; nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by an infant daughter, Margaret; brother, Carl Darris; sister-in-law, Marie Darris; brother-in-law, Dave Campbell. Cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation, by request. A combined Masonic Lodge service and funeral service, followed by a reception, will be held at 10:45 a.m. Tuesday, February 17, 2015 in the Kentville United Baptist Church, Reverend Doctor Gordon Sutherland officiating. Donations in memory may be made to the Shriners Hospital or the Kentville United Baptist Church Memorial Fund. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville.