Obituary of Joseph Archibald Gormley

It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our beloved father and papa, Joseph “Joe” Archibald “Archie” Gormley on Wednesday, November 24, 2010 at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Born in Saint John on November 9, 1926, he was a son of the late John and Catherine (Gallant) Gormley. Growing up in the North End of Saint John, under the watchful eyes of the Redemptorist Fathers of St. Peter’s, Dad and his brothers and sister shared many life experiences, memories that have been shared and passed on to their children. Dad was an avid sportsman. In his younger years, he played hockey with many teams including the Saint John Beavers. Dad also won medals in speedskating. Watching all sports was one of his favorite pastimes. He loved his New York Rangers, Toronto Blue Jays and Atlanta Braves. Dad had a deep love for his church. He volunteered for just about anything that was needed to be done, always with a joke and a smile for everyone. Dad was choir director and past member of the Parish Council at Holy Trinity. He was also an active member of the St. Pius X and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception choirs, enjoying camaraderie of his fellow choir members and his best friend and wife of 61 years, Carm. For his dedication to the Catholic Diocese of Saint John, Dad was awarded the Bishop Dollard Medal. Dad was employed as an accountant with Lantic Sugar for 42 years until his retirement in 1992. He was also a member of the 25 year club. Dad was also actively involved with the Lantic Sugar Credit Union. Dad is survived by three sons: John (Nancy) of Quispamsis, Kevin (Linda) of Saint John, and David (Patti) of Guelph; three daughters: Suzanne (Paul) O’Leary of Saint John, Jane (John) Perkyns of Houston, and Frances Gormley of Kitchener; two brothers: Richard (Mary) of Fredericton, Francis “Frank” (Esther) of Victoria; one sister Anne Marie (Ian) Anderson of Hampton; seven grandchildren; several cousins, nieces and nephews. Besides his wife Carm, and his parents, he was predeceased by one grandson, Anthony “Amp” Gormley; three brothers: Gerard, Leo, and Paul; two sisters: Marie Claire and Margaret Mary. Always a gentleman, always the optimist, Dad loved his family above all else. The family was his anchor throughout his entire life. “Oh somewhere in this favoured land the sun is shining bright The band is playing somewhere, and somewhere hearts are light And somewhere men are laughing and little children shout. But there is no joy in Mudville, mighty Casey has struck out” Resting at Brenan's Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424) with visiting on Saturday, November 27, 2010 from 7-9 pm and Sunday, November 28, 2010 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated from Holy Trinity Church on Monday, November 29, 2010 at 12 Noon. Interment will take place in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. For those who wish, remembrances to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Hospice Greater Saint John would be appreciated by the family.