It is with deep sadness that we, the family, announce the passing of James Michael “Jamie” Dunn, devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, whose presence brought warmth, humor and music into the lives of those who knew him best. He passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 23, 2026 surrounded by his loving family and his beloved music.

Born in New Glasgow on November 6, 1936, Jamie was the son of the late Morrissey and Mary (Wilkie) Dunn.

Jamie was a longtime member of St. Joseph Church in North Sydney. Music was always a part of Jamie’s life, and he found fulfillment singing in the church senior choir for many years, and later adding his beautiful voice to the Celebration Choir. He was a 3rd Degree Member of the Knights of Columbus, Fr. William Kieley Council #5109. He was a dedicated employee with Marine Atlantic for 30 plus years.

Family and extended family were very important to Jamie. He was always happy to gather for visits and loved nothing better than gathering around the piano for a rousing sing song. Dad was a life long Toronto Maple Leafs fan, he stood by his team with steadfast loyalty through every high and low, embodying the true spirit of dedication and hope. Game nights were sacred, filled with anticipation, spirited commentary, and a belief that never wavered.

Beyond his love of hockey, music was at the heart of who he was which he shared with his children, on his knee from when they were very young. His passion for song was infectious- whether he was singing along to a favorite tune or sharing music with friends and family, he had a way of bringing people together. His voice, rich with emotion and sincerity, was uplifting to listen to and left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to hear it. His spirit will echo on in every song sung, every game watched, and every memory shared. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Jamie is survived by his loving wife Colina “Queenie” (Brewer), daughters Bonnie DeViller, Karen, Lori and Crystal (Kirt) Winter. He is also survived by his grandchildren; Jeremy, Nathaniel, Marcus, Malcolm, Julia, Christina and Mia. Also surviving is his sister-in-law Marie Dunn, his many nieces and nephews who were very special to him and who loved him dearly and extended members of the Brewer family. Jamie was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

Besides his parents, Jamie was predeceased by his brothers Kilmer (Helen), Patrick (Cecile), Gerard (Ellen), Leonard and Terry; sisters Joan (Austin) Byrnes, Jeanette (Tom) MacMullin, Elizabeth “Betty” Dunn, and a sister Norma in infancy.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Wawer for the care and compassion shown over the past years. Your dedication has meant so much to our family. We are also deeply grateful to the wonderful doctors and nurses at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, especially the staff on 4D, for their tremendous attention and care for Dad. Your kindness, professionalism, and support during this time will always be remembered.

A visitation for Jamie will be held from 7 – 9 pm, Thursday, April 30, in the W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney. A funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, at St. Joseph Church, North Sydney, with Rev. Doug MacDonald officiating. Burial will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Sydney. Online condolences may be left for the family on the tribute wall at www.wjdooley.com.  The funeral will be live streamed and viewed on the W.J. Dooley Funeral Home Facebook page.

We little knew that morning,

That God was going to call

Your name.

In life we loved you dearly,

In death we do the same.

It broke our hearts to lose you,

You did not go alone.

For part of us went with you,

The day God called you home.

You left us beautiful memories.

Your love is still our guide.

And though we cannot see you,

You are always at our side.

Our family chain is broken,

And nothing seems the same.

But as God calls us,

one by one,

The chain will link again.