Council memorializes pair of Bay Roberts residents

By Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Tyler Waugh

Bay Roberts councillors opened their July 14 public meeting with fond recollections and high praise for a pair of beloved residents who recently died – one a 60-year veteran of the volunteer fire department, the other a decorated volunteer.

Newman Parsons, a dedicated member of Bay Roberts Fire Rescue for 60 years, passed away unexpectedly on July 9 at Carbonear hospital. Councillor Dean Franey, himself a member of the Fire Rescue brigade, said Parsons was an active member of the department, attending a training session just days before his passing.

Parsons was also commemorated with a post on Facebook by Bay Roberts Fire Rescue.

“During those six decades, his service to the community extended far beyond responding to emergency calls. Newman volunteered countless hours at fundraisers, Christmas parades, community events, department functions, and virtually anything taking place where a helping hand was needed,” read the post. “When something was happening in the community, Newman could be counted on to be there.”
Throughout his years of service, Newman held almost every position within the department. He also proudly served as Fire Chief, and his leadership, experience, guidance, and dedication helped shape Bay Roberts Fire Rescue into the department it is today.
“Every member of Bay Roberts Fire Rescue, both active and retired, shares one thing in common — Newman Parsons. Through shared calls, training nights, community events, fundraisers, parades, stories, and experiences, Newman was a constant presence for generations of firefighters,” the tribute read. “He was more than a member of the department. He was a fixture at the fire hall, someone who could always be depended on and trusted. He was always willing to lend a hand, share his knowledge, offer guidance, or take part in whatever needed to be done.”

Parsons leaves behind wife Joan Parsons, son Rodney (Pamela) Parsons and daughter Cherie (Isaac) Hussey, as well as grandchildren and other family members.

Agnes Butler was a renowned volunteer devoted to the community of Bay Roberts who passed away peacefully at Carbonear hospital on June 21.

Councillor Frank Deering, a longtime neighbour and friend of Butler, spoke of her commitment to family, and her countless contributions to the community, for which she was honoured with a 2012 Queen’s Jubilee Medal.

“She wasn’t someone who looked for recognition or praise. She just saw something that needed to be done and rolled up her sleeves and got to work – that’s who Agnes was,” Deering told council. “For more than 60 years Agnes devoted her life to making Bay Roberts a better place. She gave her time and generosity, shared her talent freely, and never hesitated to help whenever she was needed.”

Butler led many programs and groups, including as president of The Bay Arena Hockey Moms, served as a leader in Scouts Canada, and dedicated her time to countless fundraisers, causes and community events including Klondyke Days.

She was also passionate about the arts and the Madrock Theatre Troupe, where she poured her heart into supporting the local arts community, won a provincial drama festival award this past spring.

Butler also had a green thumb; her garden received numerous Town awards and served as the photo backdrop for many weddings.

“Her garden reflects who Agnes was – beautiful, welcoming, meticulous, creative,” Deering said.

Butler was predeceased by her husband William (Bill); her parents and leaves to mourn her son Blair (Rachel), son Philip (Danielle), as well as several grandchildren, sisters and brothers.