Obituary of James Redford Height

Engine brakes will be permitted briefly on the inbound ramp to the pearly gates for the arrival of James Height. James passed away peacefully, in his own home, surrounded by family on August 22, 2024.

James was born in Paradise, NS, the eldest son of Redford and Mabel Height. In his youth James helped his family on the farm and was involved in 4-H programs. Later, in his late teens he traveled to the US and Ontario working on farms and eventually landing a job as a crane operator. He attended vocational school and earned his diesel mechanic license. He became a stock car driver while in Ontario and often talked about the good old days of racing. While in Ontario, he met his first wife, Sophie, they returned to Nova Scotia in a single axel truck and James Height Trucking was born along with his children (Rick, Lori and Shari). He had also welcomed young sister-in-law Sue into his family.

He met Faye, whom he married in 1982, bringing with her three more children (Gill, Angie and Shannon) whom he raised as his own.  They continued to grow the business together and he became well-known in the surrounding communities as an honest and reliable businessman.  He was generous and contributed regularly to local community events and fundraisers such as ensuring for years that the Lawrencetown Exhibition Grounds were ready for the yearly Ex, which he loved to attend and enjoy eating a variety of foods and catching up with friends.

Throughout the years, starting in Ontario and continuing in Nova Scotia, James became a leader and mentor in the trucking industry. He was a founder and lifelong member of TANS (Trucker Association of Nova Scotia) serving as director and president. He was known as a bridge builder, a leader in the industry working to provide fair and flexible work environment for his fellow truckers, and an advocate with government for work distribution and safety. He also held the position of the President in the Canadian Dump Truckers Federation for a few years in the late 80s.

James worked hard to provide for his family, sometimes from dawn to dusk and rarely taking leave for relaxing.  He genuinely enjoyed good conversation, inappropriate jokes and laughter.  He was clever and mischievous and loved to tease.  He was typically late for ‘everything’ which was frustrating to those who were left waiting, but he had to finish that ‘one’ job.  James led by example of honesty, integrity and kindness with a generous and helpful spirit. He was proud to mentor his grandson, Tyler, as he worked towards owning his own trucking business. All of his family, friends, employees and industry associates are better for having his influence.

Over the last number of years, after Faye became ill, James did start to take time away, accepting assistance from family with the business and became a dedicated, loving caregiver to her.

James is survived by his children Rick (Jane), Gillian, Lori (Paul), Angela (Ted), Shannon, Shari (Robert) and “like-a-daughter” Sue, his grandchildren Taylor, Ben, Daniel, Jeremy, Alyssa, Ryan, Alex, Tyler, Sarah, Tristan, Nicholas, Jordan, Micah, Kelsey, Sam and DJ as well as multiple great grand children and his two brothers Paul and Willard, and sister Joan.

James was predeceased by his wife Faye, his parents Redford and Mabel, his sisters Pearl and Janet, granddaughter Kyra and great-grandson Daniel (both in infancy).

Service to be held at Lawrencetown Fire Hall on September 1, 2024 at 3:00 pm followed by a private family interment at Fairview Cemetery. Prior to the service, from 1:00 – 3:00 pm there will be an open house at the fire hall please bring your big trucks, antique autos to show off. Drop in for a chance to share stories, chat and remember James’ love for vehicles of all kinds. Refreshments will be available during the open house.

Donations in his memory may be made to the IWK.  On line condolences may be made by visiting www.kaulbachfamilyfuneralhome.com