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With deep love and gratitude, we remember the life of Reverend Meredith Boyce Elliott, who passed away peacefully at Ed’s House Northumberland Hospice in Cobourg, Ontario, on June 6, 2025, at the age of 93.
Boyce was a man of unwavering faith, quiet strength, and remarkable perseverance. Predeceased by his wife Shirley (née Stevens), he was a devoted father to Grant (Kathleen), Elaine, and Susan (Rob), a cherished grandfather to Lauren, Benson (Brittany), Andrew, Zachary, Ryan (Stevie), and Alexander (Clare), and a proud great-grandfather to Sebastian, Leo, and Sophie. He shared a lifelong bond with his dear sister Yvonne Walsh of Pasadena, Newfoundland and will be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews.
For over 65 years, Boyce served as a minister in the United Church of Canada, dedicating his life to building bridges between people, communities, and faiths. Boyce had once recalled, “I began ministry as a student minister in Northern Newfoundland in 1950 visiting ten communities. My method of travel included walking in summer dressed in long rubbers and packsack, by boat and by coastal steamer. During winter it was dog team, snowmobile, snowshoes and skis. The average walk thus attired would consist of 12-25 miles every weekend.” After four years of student ministry, Boyce attended Mt. Allison University and Pine Hill Divinity (now the Atlantic School of Theology). Following his ordination, his ministry took him to the Newfoundland, Maritime, Bay of Quinte and Toronto Conferences. Boyce’s ministry was not just a vocation—it was a calling that he answered with humility, compassion, and an unshakable sense of purpose.
Even after his official retirement, Boyce’s commitment to service never wavered. At the age of 76, when many would have slowed down, he began a new chapter of short term or supply Sunday work in Ontario followed by full-time ministry in Newfoundland and Nova Scotia travelling with his loyal Boston Terrier, Sal.
Boyce’s resilience was matched by a deep sense of adventure. He embraced new challenges with open arms and an open heart, whether it was navigating winding coastal roads to reach isolated communities, planting new gardens in unfamiliar soil, or starting over in his home province late in life. His adventurous spirit was not about thrill-seeking, but about saying “yes” to life—yes to people, to purpose, and to the unknown. He believed that every journey, no matter how small, held the potential for connection and meaning. He found joy in the simple things—gardening, spending time with his grandchildren, and delighting in the companionship of his little dog. But above all, Boyce found purpose in lifting others up, offering hope, and living a life rooted in love and service.
A celebration of Boyce’s life will be held in Pasadena, Newfoundland, in September 2025. Donations can be made to Ed’s House Northumberland Hospice in Cobourg, whose staff provided compassionate care in his final days.
Boyce’s legacy is one of enduring faith, quiet courage, and a heart that never stopped giving. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Our sympathies are with you. Grant, your father sounds like a remarkable man. He'll be missed.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
Dear Elaine and Susan and Grant and families. Please accept my deepest sympathies. My thoughts are with you. Sheila.
Dear Grant, Elaine, Susan and families; I am so very sorry for the loss of your cherished father. No matter their age or their health, we lose the one person who has loved us unconditionally. Our mind speaks sensible acceptance, but our heart grieves. An admirable and accomplished man has left an imprint on many lives. You may be proud. Jennifer Thomlison
Dear Grant and family, I didn't knew Mr Boyce but I do know you and your loved ones, that is more than enough to have the certainty he was an extraordinary loving person, I wish you strength and warmth on the this passing. All my best Carlos
My condolences to Rev. Elliott's family' I had the privilege of meeting Rev. Elliott in Youth work when in YPU in Bay of Quinty, many years ago and remember his deep abiding faith that he lived. Rev. Elliott touched a lot of young lives in a good way.
Grant and Kathleen, so sorry to hear that your dad has passed away. You shared so many good stories with us that we feel we knew him! Grant, we now know where that spirit of adventure you have came from! Sending hugs your way & looking forward to a visit sometime soon.
Dear Grant, Elaine, Susan and Families! We are saddened to learn of your Dad’s death. Ken’s relationship with your Dad goes back to the summer of 1954 when they both served Pastoral Charges in Northern Newfoundland/Labrador. Then, in later years since Shirley and my close friendship with your Dad and Mom. We have such fond memories. We extend our sincere Sympathy to all of you during this most difficult period of your lives. You will continue in our thoughts and Prayers.
To: Grant, Susan and Elain. So sorry to hear of your Dads passing,so many memories of him and your mom when they would visit and stay with us, he always had so many stories to tell, would always want to go visit some of the small communities around. I know that you will all miss him, but take peace in knowing that he is now with the one he lived for. May God bless you all, our prayers are thoughts are with you. Owen and Rita
So sorry for your loss. No matter their age or the circumstances it’s always difficult to say goodbye to our parents. May his memory be a blessing.
So very sorry to read of Rev Boyce Elliott’s passing. Boyce was the UC minister in Grand Bank,NL. He and his family lived across the street from us in the UC Manse. We became very good friends, sharing many cups of tea and the children, very small at that time, always spent time together. Those were good old days with good memories. Thinking of you Grant, Elaine and Susan. God Bless.
Grant, Elaine & Susan, So sorry to hear about your father's passing...he was privileged to live a long life. So many memories from years ago when he would visit Botwood. We always looked forward to seeing him. I'm Uncle Will & Aunt Fannie Thompson's daughter, Patsy. I remember you all visiting at different times but haven't seen any of you for a long time. May your memories bring you comfort and put a smile on your face. Our thoughts & prayers are with you all. ..Patsy & Ralph Paul, Point Leamington, NL.
Hi, I’m so glad that you invited me in for those special moments and appreciate the conversation we were able to have. Blessings on the journey to the Rock.
Dear Grant, Kathleen and family, I’m so very sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing Grant. May you find comfort in the many memories you’ve created with him for a lifetime. He lives on in you. Sending love and hugs, Melanie and Erin
Susan, Elaine, Grant & families Reverend Elliott was always a kind & gentle person. We are so sorry for your loss. May your memories be of comfort to you at this difficult time.
Grant and Kathleen so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing cherish the memories thinking of you during your loss
Our condolences to Grant, Susan and Elaine and all your families on Boyce's passing. Thoughts and prayers 🙏 to everyone. He certainly lived a life of faith. Hugs.
Sincere condolences to the whole family upon the passing of Meredith- Dad, Grandfather, Great grandfather, Uncle and Brother. 93 years lived well for a very full life loving family and helping others in God’s service. May sharing happy memories of him ease and comfort your hearts as he would wish. His legacy lives on in each of you. You are in our thoughts at this difficult time.
I’m so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing Grant. I’m sending thoughts and prayers to your family. Also big hugs to you, Kathleen, Ryan and Alex!😘❤️😘❤️
I am very sorry to hear this Grant and family. My thoughts are with you all during this tough time 🩷