J. G. “Jack” Lees, Inspector of Schools, Retired EGERTON – John Garfield “Jack” Lees, 82, Egerton, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 9, 2014 at the Aberdeen Hospital in New Glasgow. Born in New Waterford, he was a son of the late William Edward and Velma Noreen (Murray) Lees. Raised in a coal mining family, he was educated in local schools, and graduated from Central High School. He attended Acadia University, graduating in 1952 with Arts and Education degrees. He taught at Middleton High School 1953-1958 where his creative, loyal, and personal approach brought him accolades from both students and colleagues. Becoming principal of AVM Morfee School, CFB Greenwood was the start of his administrative career. In 1965 he obtained his Master of Arts degree from Acadia. In 1966 he became Provincial Inspector of Schools for Pictou County, where he served for 25 years. He was awarded the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal in 1977. Jack served the interests of truth and advancement wherever he saw an opportunity. While attending Acadia University, he swam to distinction in competitive meets, coaching and mentoring all levels, and excelled in gymnastics. He lent his character and leadership abilities to numerous church and community interests. Square dancing, bowling, camping, hunting, fishing, small farm and produce operation, and raising a family of five were taken on as part of life, and enjoyed. Jack married Katherine “Kathy” McGill in 1955, together they had two children, Elizabeth and Alan. Tragically, Kathy was taken from them in 1961. Jack’s marriage to Alice Lennox in 1965 began a new chapter, filled with love and excitement. He enjoyed all things western, authoring six novels under the name J. G. Lees. Jack sought truth in all things, his life was inspired by God and love for his family. Jack raised his family with strength and integrity, his legacy will live on through them. Surviving are his wife of 48 years, Alice Ruth (Lennox); daughter, Elizabeth (Ian) McLaws, Middle Sackville; granddaughter, Shallon (Trigve) Vickers, great-grandson Jack; grandson, Jared (Leslie) Bennett; son, Alan (Deborah), Egerton; grandchildren Katherine, David and William; son W. Ross (Charlene), Egerton, grandchildren James, Samuel and Faith; daughter, Julia (Ken) Kelly, Lower Sackville; granddaughter, Heather; daughter, Brenda (Duane) MacKean, Grande Prairie, Alta., grandsons, Brayden and Tyler; sister Velma (Robert) McMaster, Timberlea; niece, Diana and nephew, Robert (April); sister-in-law, Lorraine Lees; numerous cousins. Predeceased by his parents, Bill and Velma; first wife, Kathy; brother, William “Bill”. The family will receive visitors 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12 in P. & K. MacDonald Funeral Home, New Glasgow from where funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 13 in the chapel with Pastor Doug Campbell and Pastor Alan Klein presiding. Interment will be in Birch Hill Cemetery at a later date. Donations may be made in Jack’s memory to The Leprosy Mission Canada.