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Colm Manning posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 15, 2020
My sincere condolences to the Rigby family
on the passing of Harry, may he rest in peace.
Colm Manning.
Dublin.
Ireland
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Jen Campbell posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 1, 2020
Hare-Bear you will be missed at Thomas Hall! I will make sure I always remember you as I drink my morning coffee! My thoughts and prayers are with Ann, Erin , Kevin and all the family.. rest easy handsome!
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Ivan and Nancy Rideout posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 1, 2020
Heartfelt condolences to Harry's family, and fond memories over many years. We celebrate his time on earth through our years as neighbours, enjoying his big band dance music, at STU, and his always bigger-than-life welcoming spirit. What a guy! In remembrance and friendship, Ivan and Nancy Rideout
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Harold Russell posted a condolence
Thursday, August 27, 2020
Harry was my Dean at Harrington Hall and a kind, terrifying and fair man with a great sense of humour. When I took over as President of Theatre Saint Thomas we shared the theatre that is now named for Ted Daigle. Prior to that Harry had had the task of booking all activities there and it was also the home of the Thomists. I was suddenly given the responsibility of taking on the task of being the one everyone had to see to book time in the Theatre. Harry could have made this difficult but instead he was kind enough to show a young student respect and offer advice in dealing with those who would fight for priority in the use of our limited facilities. Harry had a love of life and of music and a respect for those who had the discipline to strive to do something well. I taught in the public school system in NB most of my adult life and I saw first hand the legacy he gifted to NB. His band members took his gift of music and spread it far and wide. Others who worked closely with him in residence or the band took the life lessons and discipline that he modeled and they carried that striving for excellence into many walks of life. In their professional careers and in extra-curricular activities that they chose to do with young people beyond music, such as in coaching sports they shared Harry's legacy. He has literally touched the lives of thousands. Thank you Harry. God Bless.
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Janice Steeves posted a condolence
Thursday, August 27, 2020
Our deepest condolences to the Rigby family on your loss of Harry. We first met Harry through mutual friends and also enjoyed his musical talents at several of the Thomist's Orchestra presentations. May your fond memories of Harry bring you a measure of comfort and peace during these difficult times. Sincerely, Janice & Keith Steeves
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Allan Arseneault posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
I wish to express my condolences to the Rigby family. Peace & comfort be with the family. I was saddened to hear of Harry’s passing. He was such a great man in so many ways. I knew Harry from the first day he became Dean of Men at Saint Thomas University in 1964. I was fortunate enough to play with the Thomists orchestra from1965-1968. It was the high lite of my university years! Harry was a great musical director and loved by all who knew him both in the musical world and as a wonderful Dean of Men at STU.He touched the lives of so many students throughout his career.I will miss Harry a lot. I kept in touch with him throughout the past 50 years! God bless his family. Allan & Muriel Arseneault
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Barbara and Paul Brideau posted a symbolic gesture
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
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We remember the Rigby family arrived in Saint John from Ireland approximately 1945. And Harry became the person everyone remembered because of his enthusiasm and love of music. Our family had a small general store at Tredwell Lake (Loch Lomand) with a Nickelodeon. People, young and old would come after supper, feed the Nickelodeon; 5 cents for each record played and everyone danced. Well that became a meeting place and so our father decided to build an extension. The store became a Dance Hall. Guess who became the main attraction. The Harry Rigby Band, with Bruce Holder Jr., Doug Murphy, Page Ormande, Doug Janes and several more that slips memory. Harry would direct everyone to sing, as well as dance. It was a party!
And as the years passed, each time we would meet Harry, it was an joyful occasion.
To Harry’s family ........we express our condolences, ....and know he will never be forgotten ...by all who knew him.
Warmest regards, Barbara (Lunney) and Paul Brideau.
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Bob & Nicole Steele posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
To Ann and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you at this time. Harry was a formidable presence and offered positive and constructive counsel to the many folks he encountered regardless of the hat he was wearing.
We count ourselves amongst those who are fortunate enough to have known Harry.
RIP Harry
Bob & Nicole Steele
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Fr. Doug posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
I entered the halls of St. Thomas in 1974 and enjoyed every moment that Harry and the Thomists playing those wonderful tunes in the large room under the Chapel, where we ate many meals which included : The Christmas socials, the grad prom and other events - I danced the night away!
How wonderful it was, after my ordination, that I invited Harry and the Thomists to provide music when I was the Pastor of St. Mary's in Newcastle. A wonderful time for all those Miramichers to kick up their heels and enjoy that wonderful "big band sound.!" and to raise funds for our various restoration projects. Needless to say, a amazing success.
To his family and his family of friends, I offer my sincerest sympathy and assurance of prayer. I will offer a Mass for the repose of his soul and Harry will be prayed for at the Cathedral this weekend when people gather for Sunday Mass. After all, many will remember Harry, playing at Brideau's Hall.
Rest in peace, Harry. You have joined an illustrious group of fellow professors from STU into everlasting life.
Fr. Doug - President, Class of 1977
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Joseph H Martin posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
I first knew Harry as a teen dancing at my uncle's dance hall (Brideaus) in Loch Lomand. However, I truly got know Harry as a member of the choir at St Peters in Saint John. A couple of us even enjoyed learning Gregorian Chant from Harry. Harry was one of my heroes as a teen and I never forgot his cheerful, enthusiastic, personality.
I can still hear his voice.
Lovely man.
RIP Harry
Joseph Herman Martin
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Stan Atherton posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
My wife and I send our sincere condolences to Harry's family. Coping with the loss left by Harry's passing will not be easy.
We won't quickly forget those many meals with Harry in the St. Thomas Faculty Dining Room. His enthusiastic joining in conversations, his ready opinions on most everything going on around him, and his infectious wit, have left us with fine and happy memories.
RIP Harry.
Stan Atherton and Jill (Valery) Davies
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Brian and Bonnie Grey posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
To Harry's family,
Brian and I have great memories of Harry coming to our greenhouse in Scotch Settlement! At first it was to buy and then after his retirement he would join us in the evenings to help transplant!! Harry always had interesting stories to share with us and we missed seeing him when he was no longer able to come to the greenhouse. We extend our sympathy and thinking of you.
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Renee macdonald cca thomas hall posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
To Ann and family
Sorry for your loss. I met Harry while I'm working at Thomas Hall and he was always a ray of sunshine anytime I walked in his room. We had several nighttime chats that I will always hold close and dear to my heart.
Cheers Harry with a shot of Irish whiskey !
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Jody Scott posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
Ann and Family,
Harry will be missed at Thomas Hall. I feel privileged to have been able to be a part of the last stage of his life, and his most vulnerable time. Sending you all prayers and hugs. He was an amazing man... I always loved his greeting of "well good morning sunshine" no matter the time of day I went in his room!
Jody Scott, LPN Thomas Hall
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Elizabeth Brideau posted a symbolic gesture
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
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In the late 40's and early 50's, Harry's band played at "Brideau's Dance Hall, Loch Lomand, Saint John. Harry told me it was his first gig, Harry, on accordion along with Dick Janes on trumpet, Mr. Flewelling on Sax, and other musicians whose names have faded from my memory, gave me and my brothers and countless numbers of teenagers many, many hours of wonderful music and great fun. I have a very special place in my heart for Harry. My condolences to his family.
Liz Brideau
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Michael Cochran posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
My thoughts and prayers go out to you. I remember how he loved coming to my work for seafood chowder as well as me coming out to say hello. Always tried to make a point to go out and say hello to him wheater it was busy or not.
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Wendell Halsall posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
I used to go to Harry's dances at The Forum, Brideaus and some UNB functions, very often he would sit down with my wife and myself and have a drink during intermission. I used to ask him to play different dance music like Perfidia and The Hustle. He gave up doing up doing The Hustle as it was too complicated for most dancers. He and his music will be greatly missed.
Sincerly Wendell Halsall - Saint John NB.
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June Wilband posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
Ann & Family.
It is with a very heavy heart that I read of Harry’s Passing. We were friends for such a long time and enjoyed such wonderful times together. My condolences to you and your family. My thoughts & Prayers are with you all at this most difficult time.
Sincerely
June Wilband ❤️❤️
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Colin Farrar posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
I was a proctor in Harrington Hall for four years in the '70's. Harry was my boss, and a good one I saw him interact with many people. He was gruff but compassionate; succinct but witty; an autocrat to some but a father figure to others. Make no mistake, though...he was respected by all. He was a big part of STU's identity. And, he comes to mind every time I hear a big band tune. My condolences to the family.
Colin Farrar
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Steve O ‘Rourke uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
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I have many memories of Harry, too many to possibly include here. My time with the band was extraordinary and life-changing. Although he was the most stubborn man I probably ever met, he had a very positive influence on my life. One comes back to me from my time in the band. Harry called me and asked me if I wanted to go golfing. We took his private plane and flew to Prince Edward Island to go golfing at Green Gables golf course. We had supper and then flew back that night. The picture included was my last visit with Harry where he did recognize me and his comment was,” you got old,”LOL. Many great memories, condolences to all of his family. Steve
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Glynn & Esther Norman posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
Ann, Kevin, Eireann and families; Our heartfelt condolences go out to you all during this difficult time. We, and our kids, have many fond memories of the years spent as neighbors on Rocky Road, Keswick Ridge. RIP Harry. No doubt you are now a shining star in the biggest band of all! Glynn & Esther Norman
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Tom & Nancy Creamer posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
Our deepest condolences to all of Harry’s family. Thank you for the memories Harry!
Sincerely,
Tom & Nancy Creamer
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Greg Marks (president, AFM Local 815) uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
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On behalf of the NB Musicians’ Association AFM Local 815, I offer my deepest condolences. Harry’s passing marks a tremendous loss to our musical community. He was a founding member of our Local, remaining active from 1964-2011. His work with The Thomists is the stuff of legends. Countless young musicians are pursuing careers in music today thanks to this great man. He will be sorely missed.
This photo of Harry, along side Ned Landry and our late President Emeritus Sonny Weyman (who, sadly, also passed away this past weekend), taken at The Governor General’s 1992 Celebration, has had a place of honour in our Local office for as long as I have been a member. May you find some solace in knowing that Harry’s positive influence will continue to radiate through our community for generations to come.
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Colleen Rioux posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
Rest In Peace, dear Harry. You saw something in a 21-year old whose knees shook and whose voice wobbled so badly in her first tryout that I was shocked you thought I “wasn’t bad for a first try.” You encouraged me and gave me another chance, and because of you, I got to sing with a great group of musicians and gained some confidence and skills I didn’t know I had. You were a character, a mentor, and sometimes terrifying, but always, always good to me and to us all. My condolences to your family and friends. God bless you.
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Christine Doiron posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
My deepest condolences to all of Harry's loved ones. Harry was certainly one of a kind! I learned a lot from him, during my many years with the band. Under his guidance and direction, he seemed to bring out the best in me. Harry will always be in my heart ❤
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Wes McLean posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
I got to know Harry in the fall of 2000, as a first-year student at STU who played trombone and joined the Thomists.
It was evident the minute I met Harry that he was driven, talented, irreverent and very colourful. I won’t forget playing big band tunes at dances around southern NB and the Miramichi.
When Harry played the organ and conducted the band, he was enveloped by the music and completely focused on entertaining the crowd.
He offered encouragement and the occasional rebuke, but both with a generosity of spirit and in pursuit of excellence.
It was a pleasure to be in his orbit for a brief time and to come to know this incredible man.
To the Rigby family, I offer my sincere condolences. Know that Harry has earned his rest and is likely entertaining the angels with a tune and a story, both with his characteristic grin and Irish wit.
God bless Harry.
Wes McLean
STU BA 2004
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David Charters posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
As former UNB students and later faculty members, my wife and I felt blessed to have had many opportunities to dance to the music of Harry's band, The Thomists. He left us great musical memories. Thanks, Harry!
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Bill Akerley posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy to the family, Harry's many friends and to the Saint Thomas University family - Harry was an inspiration to, and much loved by all, who knew him.
Bill Akerley
STU '69
Ottawa
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Danny Watson posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Brenda & I extend our sincere condolences to Harry's family and friends. He was indeed bigger than life! Whether as Dean of Men or Director of The Thomists, he was....well, Harry. I had the blessing and privilege of playing for/with Harry and the Thomists my last year at STU. Got to know him in a different light at that point; got paid and I'd have done it for nothing! Thoroughly enjoyed the several Thomists' Reunions at Harry's home and STU. I won't put in print what his opener to me at the last reunion was, but I laughed 'til I cried! Nothing but GREAT memories! Now with all his good points, warts and excess gas he's making music with the angels and St. Padraig--forever! Thank you Dear Harry. I love you and will revel in and treasure forever all the good times.
Danny Watson
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Mark Giberson posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Dear Ann, Kevin and Eireann
Please know that you and Harry are in my thoughts.
For me and thousands of others, Harry and The Thomists provided the soundtrack to our St. Thomas experience. In the '60s, '70s, '80s and early '90s, they were a welcome and most appreciated counterbalance to our modest cinderblock, institutional green and linoleum-tiled physical surroundings. Without a hint of pretence, they were classy and sophisticated. They brought us together; gave us happy memories; made us feel good about ourselves; made us proud.
Harry gave so much to so many. He lived a rich and fulsome life. And he'll go on living in the hearts and minds of the countless number of people who knew and loved him, and whose lives he touched so profoundly. I'm one of them. Thank you for sharing dear Harry with us all.
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bettyhawkins50 @outlook.com lit a candle
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
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Harry held a special place in my heart. I still remeber coming into the Aiken Center for my STU convocation and The Thomists playing! I loved the Thomists and later joined the dance group and so enjoyed the music. I can easily visualize Harry conducting his orchestra. RIP Harry, you were "one of a kind". My love and sympathy to your family and friends.
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Christy Hughes-Mercado posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
My deepest heartfelt condolences to Harry's family. I hope the fact that he touched and changed so many lives brings you solace. I joined the Thomists in the 80's and it was a privelege to do so, because even though I was not really a Big Band singer, Harry still allowed me to grow up vocally and musically during my time with the band. I loved to hear him laugh and if truth be told I also loved when he lost his temper, especially if it was at someone else's expense. I can hear that Irish accent especially enunciated when it happened. I gained a lifetime of knowledge and life long friends from being with Harry and the Thomists. Thank you Harry may you get a much deserved rest. Sending you much love up to the heavens.
Garry Hansen posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
When I joined the Thomists in the mid-80s, Harry rehearsed the band two or three times a week, and we typically played dances almost every Friday and Saturday. The band was our social life, our source of income, and a big part of our personal and musical growth. Harry wasn't just a bandleader and Dean of Students -- he was a friend and mentor to so many of us (even if the thought of sparking his Irish temper might strike just a little bit of fear in the occasional Harrington Hall freshman or newbie musician). The sunrise is here, Harry. You will be sorely missed.
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Beth Hansen posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
When I first came to university this lovely man let me into one of the greatest bands in the maritimes. For nine years he was always there when I needed someone to talk to and always looked over me. A few years ago I went for a visit and he still teased me about my vibrato when I played my sax. We all loved you.
Rob Paterson posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
Sending my love to Ann, Eireann and Kevin - He will be with you always - Rob
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Pam Potter posted a condolence
Monday, August 24, 2020
My deepest sympathy to all the family on the loss of Harry. He was always such a fun person to be around. I enjoyed many a swim in his pool, and we had some nice dinners and lots of laughs. He lived his life to the fullest, and impacted so many people with his teaching, his music, and his friendships.
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The family of Harry William Rigby uploaded a photo
Monday, August 24, 2020
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