June 11, 1957 – May 18, 2026
Gerald “Jerry” Alan Meekins of Saint John, New Brunswick, passed away tragically on May 18, 2026, in a boating accident on the Saint John River.
Born in Nova Scotia, Jerry was predeceased by his father, Gerald Archibald Meekins; his mother, Marguerite Rose (Pine) Hyland; his stepfather, Gordon Hyland; his sister, Charmaine Rose Meekins; and his longtime partner, Gail Roberts.
He is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Jennifer Meekins (Zach Spike) of Saint John and Angela Kierstead (Nathan) of Quispamsis; his grandsons, Oliver Rahn of Saint John and Gabriel Kierstead of Quispamsis; his brothers, Jamie Meekins, Ronnie Meekins, and Gary Meekins; and his sisters, Joanne Durelle, Sherry Meekins, Carolynn Bowser, Marianne Meekins, and Lisa Zinck, all of Nova Scotia.
Jerry also leaves behind special nephews Andrew Roberts (Mel), with whom he shared a lifelong friendship, Aaron Bolduc, and Raymond Bolduc; niece Kasey Roberts (Mike); as well as many other nieces and nephews throughout Nova Scotia. He will also be deeply missed by his lifelong friend Bernard “Bernie” Pettipas of Fort St. John, British Columbia, and by his loyal canine companion, Jasper.
Jerry grew up in the Moser River/Dartmouth area of Nova Scotia before moving to Saint John in his mid-twenties. A skilled carpenter and gifted problem solver, he spent many years working in construction and was also employed at Connor Brothers Ltd. in Blacks Harbour for over a decade. He had a remarkable ability to build, repair, and create solutions for just about anything. If something needed to be done, especially from scratch, Jerry was the person you called.
He had a lifelong love of the water, especially sailing. Known throughout the community as “the Mooring Guy,” Jerry spent many years installing and maintaining moorings for families along the Saint John and Kennebecasis Rivers.The waterways he knew so well became both his livelihood and his passion.
Jerry loved the wilderness as much as he loved the water. Whether hunting, exploring, or simply enjoying the quiet of the woods, he felt most at home under the open sky. A true survivalist at heart, he possessed the kind of practical knowledge that only comes from a lifetime spent outdoors. His deep connection to nature shaped every part of who he was.
He was known for his quirky and quick-witted sense of humour, the kind that could catch you off guard and leave you laughing long after the moment had passed.
Jerry leaves behind a legacy of craftsmanship, loyalty, and community, along with a river full of memories shared by the many people whose lives he touched. His absence will be felt deeply, but his spirit will live on in the waters he knew so well, the projects he built with his own hands, and the countless stories shared by those who loved him.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all first responders for their immediate and professional response, as well as to the community for the outpouring of support and kindness shown during this difficult time.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, New Brunswick. (506-634-7424) In keeping with Jerry’s wishes, there will be no services held at this time.
