Obituary of Bill and Carolyn Vail
It is with utmost sadness that the family announces the passing of William "Bill" Thomas Vail, 88, who left this world peacefully on July 29, 2024, followed by his beloved wife, Carolyn Jane (Arthurs) Vail, who departed just hours later on July 30, 2024—her 85th birthday and their 64th wedding anniversary. Their departure, so close together, is a testament to a bond so deep that one could not imagine life without the other.
Bill was born October 6, 1935, in Saint John to the late Gordon and Helen (Armstrong) Vail. He held various positions in his 37 year career with CN Rail, and was a member of the CNR Pensioners Association. He was also a past member of Thistle St. Andrews Curling Club and the Portland United Men’s Club. Bill loved following sports, with a particular passion for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Bill had a special place in his heart for his grand-pup Lydia, whose companionship brought him joy.
Carolyn was born July 30, 1939, in Saint John to the late Gordon and Beatrice (Laing) Arthurs. Carolyn was a beloved teacher, dedicated to her profession for many years at Hazen White - St. Francis with a passion for teaching grade 3. Her commitment to her students and her love for teaching were evident in the joy she found in shaping young minds. Carolyn was a member of the Retired Teachers Association.
Bill and Carolyn had a zest for life that was contagious. They thrived on entertaining friends, creating joyful memories, and living for their summers at their cherished trailer in Harding's Point for 48 years. Both served on the Board of Directors for Newport Village. Their home was always a welcoming place, filled with laughter, love, and a genuine passion for life. In their younger years, Bill and Carolyn enjoyed traveling and cruises, snowmobiling with friends; and in their later years, enjoyed baking together for their family and friends. Their lives were deeply enriched by their late son, Geoff who passed away in 2020. Bill and Carolyn are also predeceased by Bill's brother, Malcolm Vail; his sister, Florence Brodie; Carolyn's brother, James Arthurs; her sister, Mary Lou Hart; as well as their parents. As devoted grandparents and great-grandparents, they loved every moment spent with their family. They are survived by their daughter, Judith Fox (Michael); daughter-in-law, Jacqueline Vail; their five grandchildren: Daniel Fox (Amelia); Alex, Emilie (John), Andrew (Catherine), and Elias Vail. They also leave behind six great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. Their extended family includes many nieces and nephews, and a multitude of close friends who will deeply miss their warmth and kindness. Bill and Carolyn’s legacy of love, joy, and generosity will continue to inspire all who knew them. Their remarkable bond and their devotion to family and friends have left a mark on the hearts of many.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (506-634-7424), where visitation will be held on Monday, August 5, 2024, from 3 to 8 pm. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at 1 pm from Portland United Church, 50 Newport Crescent, Saint John. Interment will follow in Cedar Hill Extension Cemetery. For those who wish, remembrances to Portland United Church or a charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family.
