HIGGINS, Brian Allison – 62, Truro. It is with saddened hearts we announce the passing of our dear son, father, brother, uncle and friend, Brian, on Wednesday, September 30, 2009 in the Palliative Care Unit at Colchester Regional Hospital, Truro. Born July 11, 1947, in Truro, he was a son of Arnold Higgins, Halifax, and the late Grace Elizabeth (Matthews) Higgins. Brian was well known for his professional carpentry skills. He loved to fish, hunt and joking around with everyone. He was a gentle soul who loved his family dearly. Brain had a good friend who looked out for him and was by his side just before he passed away – thank you Betty for your love and devotion. Brian will be sadly missed by his sons, Brian Jason Bernard, Millbrook First Nation; Shawn Neil Byard (Jessica), Halifax; step-daughter, Natalie Gloade (Ricky), Millbrook First Nation; grandchildren, Victoria MacFayden, Jessica MacFayden (Bernard), all of Millbrook First Nation; Marcus and Mariah Byard, Halifax; sisters, Nancy MacLeod (John), Calgary; Leslie Higgins, Truro; brothers, Paul (Faith), Musquodoboit Harbour; Steve and David, both of Truro; wonderful nieces, Tracy Preeper (Robert), Shelley Burgess, Kathy Francis (JJ), Melissa Hamilton (Jay), Laurie MacLeod, Cassandra Higgins; special nephews, Jeff MacLeod, Michael Burgess, Mathew Wood. Along with his beloved mother, Grace, he was predeceased by sisters, Marina Burgess, Susan Hutt; nephew, Trevor Higgins; former common-law wife and friend, Nora Madeline Bernard; former companion, Nova Byard. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall ~ Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, where the funeral service will be held 10:30 am Monday, October 5, 2009. If so desired, donations in Brian’s memory to a charity of choice are welcomed. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting the “Guest Book” at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com