Whitney Pier
The angels in Heaven are singing with joy today, Sunday, June 6, 2021, as they open up their gates to welcome home one of their dedicated servants, Reverend Mother Phyllis Marsh-Jarvis of Whitney Pier, Nova Scotia.
Born on January 21, 1948 in Annapolis Royal, Phyllis was the daughter of the late Eleazer and Violet Muriel (Moore) Marsh.
Reverend Mother or ‘Ms. P’ as she was so lovingly known, carried the passion of the word deep within her heart. Her true love was sharing her gifts of guidance and the Lord with her beloved St. Philips African Orthodox Church Community in which she had the pleasure of ministering since October 2015, after answering her call to faith, being ordained in 2015. She took over as Rector of St. Philip’s African Orthodox Church upon the retirement of her mentor, the late Archbishop (Patriarch) Vincent Waterman in 2016.
Community Giving was the “blessing” Reverend Mother gave to the many community boards and agencies that she served over the past few years. Giving back is something she did without hesitation or remorse. Her love for fellowship and community action was something she was dedicated to until her passing. She was instrumental in starting a seniors activity program at St. Philips, served as a board member past and present on the Community United for Black Education, The African Nova Scotian Service Provider Network, Aids Coalition, Whitney Pier Outreach, Health Association of African Canadians – Provincial Liaison, Facilitator of Dialogue of Peaceful Change, Lay Leader Chronic Disease and Self Management Program, Champlin for the Whitney Pier Legion Branch 128, KAIROS and served as an ongoing community advocate and support.
If Reverend Mother wasn’t sharing her wisdom with community organizations, local charities or government agencies through her African Heritage Month Talks she was developing health programs, and working on her next Christmas Concert, Easter Vigil or enjoying the young voices of her Sunday School group. Her words were contagious.
Her life was lived with kindness, giving and in the loving spirit of the lord. “Church is not the building, it’s us the children of God. God loves us unconditionally let us love one another the same”. God Bless.
Rev. Phyllis leaves behind her son, Tyrone, whom she loved dearly; his father, Gerald Moe; siblings, Gardner (Annabelle), Halifax, Mona, Halifax, Gordon, Ontario, Marlow, Preston, Willoughby Jr. (Collette), Dartmouth, Aletta (Allison), Preston, Regina (Manuel), Halifax, Claudia, Dartmouth, Sandra (Allan), Preston, Jaunita (Earnest), Preston, Virginia, Dartmouth and Darlene, Ontario; as well as a large extended family.
Besides her parents, Phyllis was predeceased by Bill and Leah.
As per her request, Phyllis has been cremated. Due to Covid, a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Rev. Phyllis may to be made to St Philips African Orthodox Church, Whitney Pier.
Special thanks to the doctors, nurses, home care and VON who looked after Phyllis in her time of need.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
Online Condolences
Condolence to the Johnson and Marsh Jarvis Family. You were Rev. Phyllis Blessed by God and prayed with many during your illness. Got up everyday and praise God. Whether it was a good day or bad day you always gave thanks. I remember encouragement, and deep conversations. I smile because of your love for community and family. She was a tremendous woman of God. Grounded. You were covered by the blood or Jesus Christ as he poured into you daily. Cousin Rev. Phyllis May you rest in perfect peace. I love you, and we will meet on the other side. Some sweet day. May your legacy live on through your friends and family. Your living was not in vain. Jesus put a fence around the family and communities who are being affected.
From: Bridget Williams
We’ve lost more than words can say, with the loss of Rev. Phyllis. Joining you and wishing you Peace in your grieving. May we carry on the legacy of kindness, fearlessness and hopefulness that we were blessed with by the privilege of having Rev. Phyllis in our lives.
From: Vicki
So sorry to hear this sad news. REST IN PEACE.
From: Joan C Macintosh
Reverend Mother Phyllis Marsh-Jarvis
She was a beacon of light and we will miss her dearly.
From: Joann Chin Yet and Yvonne Stephenson
Deepest condolences to those who had the pleasure of sharing Phyllis’ last days. Matthew 25:21 says it best “well done, good and faithful servant”
From: Yvonne Dorrington-Spencer
To: Tyrone, siblings, family and friends I send my sincere condolence. Phyllis was a wonderful friend and confidant. I know how much you will miss her because I will miss her the same way. But I am happy knowing that she is at peace with no more pain, living with the Lord. God Bless you all.
From: Maxine Colley-Wongus
So sorry to hear of your passing. You served the Lord to the end. Angels in Heaven are rejoicing as they welcome you through the gates of heaven. Rest in peace
From: Corlene Leslie (Halifax)
I was very sorry to hear of the Rev. Mother’s passing. I have only known her for a short time from going to bingo at the church. She was one of the finest ladies I have ever known. I remembered her father Eleazar, who ran a store on Tupper years ago, when I was just a child. I can see where she got her kindness from; her dad. He was such a kind man. I kinda remember Phillis way back then. My heart is sadden with her passing. Sending heartfelt condolences to her family. May she Rest Peacefully. God Bless
From: Debra Grace
My sincere condolences to the family of Phyllis. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief and always. May your memories forever provide you with comfort and love. Phyllis, I will miss you dearly for you have touched my life greatly and have been my source of inspiration for strength, grace and perseverance. Love from Sherri.
From: Sherri Tutty
Sincere condolences to the family and friends of Reverend Phyllis. She aspired and was an inspiration. Her smile and her life were true testimonies. Once committed she was totally in. . We will miss her – from Preston to Cape Breton and beyond. She rests in peace from her labours but her works do follow her. To those who remain: Cherish the memories, pick up the torch, and be thankfully blessed. God bless.
From: Dr. Carolyn G. Thomas and Family
May our friend rest in eternal peace.
So very sorry to hear of her passing.Time for you to rest GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT.
On the behalf of the house of Bishops, the African Orthodox Church worldwide and unity network. would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of the late Rev Canon Phyllis Marsh, our dear and beloved sister, you will forever be in our hearts and thoughts, you have given so much, we look forward to see you again in the kingdom of our heavenly home, where pain and sorrow is no more, but love takes control.
Rest in peace my dear friend my beloved sister
Was saddened to hear of the passing of Phyllis, aka “Happy”. She had an outgoing personality and was full of life. Loved to dance and never seemed to let things get her down. She will be missed by all who knew her. Gone to soon, R.I.P Phyllis.
Chesley Boucher and Family.
Sincere condolences to the family on the passing of your loved one
Rev Mother Phyllis
May it give you comfort knowing that she’s resting in the arms of the Lord
Rest in Peace
Sincere condolences to Rev Phyllis ‘s family. May she rest in peace.
To the family of Rev. Mother, Phyliss. While living in Halifax, I had the pleasure of being in her company on boards and during many events. She always was so insightful in her interactions and exchange with others. She has left a rich legacy for us all to follow. She has run the race and finished her race. Take your rest, my sister.
My thoughts and most sincere sympathies are extended to all family members and friends. Had many inspirational chats with Phyllis. Wonderful lady. l
I extend sincere condolences to the family of cousin Rev Phyllis. May God continue to strengthen you during this difficult time. May she rest in peace power and praise
My deepest condolences to Phylis’s family on your loss, my thoughts are with you at this time.
My deepest condolences to phylist family for your loss. Rest in peace sister.
My condolences to Phylis’s family for your loss. Rest in peace sister.
Sincere condolences to the family. I have many fond memories of Phillis and her dad Aleazer growing up on Tupper St.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family in their time of sorrow.
Deepest condolences to the family. RIP Phyllis. Hazel and Michael Lucas
Such a deep loss for the community, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Rest In Peace my dear friend.
Condolences to the family on Phyllis passing.. May she Rest In Peace..
It is with a heavy heart that I have learned of Mother Phyllis passing.
Such a wonderful woman. I will miss her. My deepest condolences to her family at this time..
My sincere condolences to all of Phyllis family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.God Bless.
My sincere condolences to the family of Phyllis. I had the pleasure of knowing Phyllis many years ago when I lived in Halifax. She was a remarkable, insightful, and caring person. At the time I knew her she was a union executive. She gave her knowledge and self to help many others. She was a remarkable person and although this is a very difficult time for the family I hope that they can find some comfort in the great legacy Phyllis has left us all.
Oh Tyrone, my deepest condolences to you, on the loss of your precious mother. I was privileged to call her a friend. I didn’t care about the age difference either. I fondly recall visiting her in the Regional Hospital, and I brought with me one of many dishcloth angels as a get well gift for her. Your mother Tyrone, was a resilient woman, who appreciated a simple homemade gift as the one I brought for her. As she would always often say “This too, shall pass.” Love you Reverend Mother ❤️
Our prayers and condolences to the family.
Those we love are always with us.
Their laughter and their wisdom,
their advice and thoughtfulness
are gifts of love that are ours to keep.
May the gifts of Rev. Mother Phyllis
help console you now
and fill your heart with memories
that will always comfort you.
To family, friends and church family:
Please accept my sincere condolence and sympathy to you, the family and friends of our beloved sister, Rev Phyllis. My thoughts and prayers are with you. She will be missed by many but know that our beloved sister is now at rest and at peace in the loving arms of our Saviour, no more pain or suffering. I will certainly miss our many phone calls and chats
So May God bless each and everyone as we go through this difficult time.
So my sister, Rev Phyllis, Rest In Peace and May perpetual light shine upon you
Love,
Deacon Isabel Waterman
It is with deep sadness that I extend to the family, friends and congregation my condolences on the death of Rev. Mother Phyllis Marsh-Jarvis. Rev. Marsh-Jarvis will be missed by many people. She was a very determined, dedicated person. She demonstrated, compassion, empathy and love. She fulfilled God’s purpose. Now she is home with God her savior. Thank you Rev. Marsh-Jarvis for your kindness. Rest in peace.
I remember Phyllis from my junior high school days when we were in grade eight together. She was a performer and full of fun and humour. I can see her yet dancing down the hall singing “Do You Love Me Now that I can Dance?” and “He’s a Rebel.” She kidded with the teacher and liked to get a laugh from the class. Little did I know she would grow up to be such a vibrant force in her church and community. A few years ago I attended an event at St. Philip’s African Orthodox Church and met Phyllis there in her role as Reverend Mother. To my surprise, she remembered me from those days at Don Bosco School. Phyllis went on to live so many lives in one! I am sorry to hear of her death and offer my deepest sympathy to her family, her church and her community at this great loss.
My deepest condolences to the family of Phyllis on her passing. She will be missed greatly by the community and all those who knew her.
May she Rest in Peace.
Condolences to the families of Rev. Marsh-Jarvis. It was great to see her a few years ago when the Black Hair Association went there for a event on Black hair. We were welcomed with open arms. May the family be comforted at this time.
I worked with Phyllis in Halifax several years ago. She had an amazing presence and such genuine care and respect for the people we served. While she may no longer be of this world, her spirit will live on in those who were gifted to have known her. Condolences and strength to those who will miss her so much. Fly high PMJ…in comfort, peace and love. 💕
I am so saddened to hear of Phyllis’s passing. I met her when she took Dialogue for Peaceful Change many years ago. She had such courage and was so much fun to be around. I admired her positive spirit and deep faith. You will be missed my friend. Until we meet again…..
Phyllis you were a mentor to me my precious friend as you walk the stairway to heaven god is waiting to greet you bc you are a true angel of god until we meet again Rest In Peace
Dear Family and other Friends,
I knew Phyllis before she was call “mother”. She challenged some of us to be courageous and faithful in our advocacy with and for others. My sympathy and prayers as well as my gratitude.
wishing all enough,
Joan
My deepest condolences to Rev. Mother Marsh-Jarvis’ family. I knew her through so many issues, organizations and activities she was involved with in Halifax. It seemed she was giving her life to those things. That’s why I found it so amazing that she moved back to Sydney, became ordained and gave even more of her life to so many there. Her love for people and willingness to serve was truly amazing.
She will be missed by many.
Deepest Condolences! What a lovely person!
Our deepest Condolence from myself as Pastor, and the members of the East Preston united Baptist Church and community. We here in East Preston community had a long lasting relationship with Rev. Phyllis she will be greatly missed by all. our prayers go out to here extended Family and friends. Rest in peach Rev. Phyllis
Shiloh Community Church sends its’ deepest and sincerest condolences along to the family and extended family and friends of Rev. Mother Phyllis Marsh-Jarvis. Rev. Phyllis was one of the cofounders of Shiloh Community Church and served in that capacity for a few years before moving back to Cape Breton. May God embrace you all as you mourn her passing and know that she is at peace in her paradise.
Billy and I send our deep heartfelt condolences to the family, extended family and friends of Rev. Mother Phyllis Marsh-Jarvis as you mourn her passing. She is at rest now an peaceful!!
Dear family and friends and son Tyrone, Phyllis was an amazing woman even when we both went to Holy Angels High School. She was always helping others at a young age. I have met her several times since she returned to Sydney and it was always a joyful conversation. Her faith never wavered, Rest in peace Rev. Mother Phyllis. Sincere Sympathy Dianne Colford MacAskill
My condolences to the family and the community on your loss, Rev.Mother Phyllis, I felt as if I always knew her she always remember your name and spoke as if she had just seen you (although it was years sometimes) The Congress of Black Women of Canada, Prestons, LakeLoon, Cherrybrook and Westphal Area, Chapter also send their condolences to family and community. May the Angels rejoice on her return to God’s Kingdom.Amen
Rest in Peace Sister. I will always treasure our time together.
My deepest condolences to Rev. Mother Marsh- Jarvis’ family. She radiated love.
My deepest condolences to Rev. Mother Marsh Javis’s family .
Family and Community was so important to her. She has touched so many individuals with her kind words and thoughts .
Rest in peace.
So sorry for your lost. Mother Phyllis was a good friend. A loving person. She will be missed.
May the light of grace shine on your sorrow and may the gift of faith bless your soul. Sending our deepest condolences to the family of Reverend Mother Marsh-Jarvis from Rev. Lloyd Grant & Lady Cecille, Leadership team, & members of Beechville Baptist Church. He is our help and our shield(psalm 33:20) Our prayers and love to the entire family
Sending our Love, Prayers and Condolences to the entire family.
Reverend Mother Phyllis has touched many lives with wisdom and faith which she freely shared. She will be forever missed. Well done thy good and Faithful servant.
Tyrone, family, friends and all those who have been part of Rev Mother Phyllis’ sphere of influence, I offer sincere condolences. She leaves a wonderful legacy and I pray that with time, that will bring some peace to all who knew and loved her. May God’s grace give you comfort as you find a way to manage your grief through this transition at this most difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sincere condolences to the family of Reverend Mother Phylis Marsh-Jarvis. She was truly an earth angel and I will miss her words of wisdom and genuine caring whenever we would see each other. Rest now angel of love until we meet again.
Please accept our sincerest condolences on the passing of Reverend Mother Phyllis Marsh-Jarvis. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, the congregation, and the community she served. She will truly be missed.
Heartfelt condolences to the entire family on the passing of Reverend Mother Phylis Marsh Jarvis. I pray that as you mourn the passing of your loved one, seek God’s strength and he will give you the strength to endure as you mourn the passing of your Mother, Sister, grandmother. Find comfort in God’s word. Blessed are they that mourn for they shall be comforted. Mathew 5:4
My condolences to family and friends of Mother Phyllis Marsh Jarvis. I worked with her many years ago at MT and T. May she rest in peace.
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Rev. Phyllis Marsh. I had the pleasure of co-facilitating a chronic disease self management program with her in Whitney Pier. We hit it off from the first time we met. She was an incredible human being and extremely devoted to improving the well being of others. Rev. Phyllis Marsh was a strong individual and was the type of person who’s commitment to action ensured that needed things got done. I will forever miss her pleasant smile and her friendship. I have met so many interesting and very nice people through her.