Byron Gilliss

1964 – 2022

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Byron Francis Gilliss of Napan. Byron died suddenly in Baker’s Lake, Nunavut on November 14, 2022, at the age of 58.

Born in Napan, NB, on October 9, 1964, he was the son of the late Rita (Adams) and Lloyd Gilliss.

Byron is survived by his wife and soulmate of 37 years, Sally (Hamilton), whom he affectionately called, “Babes,” his beloved son and best friend, Adam, fiancé (Jennifer) and her son, Zack. They live in Fort St. John, B.C. and Byron and Sally made several trips to visit their cherished family. Byron was a kind, generous and devoted family man. His wife and son meant everything to him.

He is survived by five sisters: Estelle Olson of Miramichi, Myrna (Bliss) Dickson of Napan, Coral (Rick) Johnston of Bay du Vin, Karlene (Julia) Gilliss of Napan and Trina Gilliss of Miramichi; four brothers: Calvin of Fredericton, Dwayne, a very special brother, (Theresa) of Russellville, Clinton (Corrine) of Eel Ground, Morris (Heather) of Dawson Creek, B.C.  Byron is also survived by a longtime friend, Brian Gilliss of Napan.

Byron was predeceased by his parents, two brothers: Elwood Gilliss of Ontario, Lynn Gilliss of Napan and two significant people in his life, Nan and Elmer McKnight.

Byron was an employee at Arctic Fuel in Nunavut for 15 years and the people there became his “work family.” His close friends were: Kenny Hachey, Glen MacLean, Mike Hachey, Robert Pleadwell, Ronnie Pleadwell, Deno Stagg, Ryan Savoie and too many others to mention. Bryon was a huge part of their community and work force.  A special thank you to his best friend Brian Gilliss.

Byron and Sally could often be found milling wood, planting gardens or renovating their house together. They both shared a love of nature and were often at their camp working on the next project while cooking up a feed of smelts on the camp stove. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved working in the woods and taking a run on his ATV.

Byron was one of the most hard-working men one would ever meet; he wasn’t happy unless he was working. He could turn his hand to fix anything! He never stopped moving…even in his sleep! He was always there to lend a helping hand, saying, “I’ll be there in a minute!” He had the most contagious grin and energy! With Byron, you knew where you stood and he told it like it was! Byron was loved by his family, friends and neighbors and will be greatly missed in this Napan Community. You will never be forgotten, Byron.

As per Byron’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral service. 

As expressions of sympathy, donations to a charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family. 

Arrangements are entrusted to Adams Funeral Home Ltd., 140 King St., Miramichi, NB, telephone (506) 773-3492, or messages of condolence may be sent online to www.adamsfh.ca

“Where Dedicated People Care”

Est. 1956