Little Bay Islands man remembered as dedicated volunteer
LITTLE BAY ISLANDS — Gary Boyd remembers the zest former colleague Jerry Weir had for the Christmas season.
They both taught at H.L. Strong Academy and as soon as staff and students hit the holiday season, Weir would leap headlong into preparations for the annual Christmas concert and other activities.
“(Weir) loved the crafts and the holidays,” said Boyd. “Jerry loved doing it.”
Boyd and Weir taught together for 18 years at the Little Bay Islands school. When they started there, Weir taught in the primary levels and Boyd was the elementary school teacher.
Eventually, Boyd became the principal and the two remained close. Weir taught for 30 years in his hometown and took over the principal position from Boyd when he left.
“(Weir) was a dedicated teacher,” Boyd said of his friend. “He kept things upbeat.”
Weir, 61, died in a tragic car accident last Sunday on the highway near Robert’s Arm in central Newfoundland. The accident also claimed the lives of 67-year-old Cyril Winsor, 16-year-old Kathleen Elaine Madore and 14-year-old Kaleigh Marie Madore.
Weir was described by a family member as a man with a heart of gold who was always in great spirits.
Weir, who was the town clerk for Little Bay Islands, is being remembered as a tireless community leader. Along with his work as a teacher, he was a layperson for several years with the United Church of Canada.
Faith United Church closed in the summer of 2018, but, when Weir was involved, he conducted services for the congregation both on the island and in nearby Sheppardville.
Weir was heavily involved with the Coalition of Persons with Disabilities Newfoundland and Labrador, serving as its president for a time, and was on its executive in the role of past-president.
“(Weir) was a great community person,” said Boyd. “He took great pride in his community.
“He would do anything for you and was very helpful.”