Amy Jardine was a retired mechanic, member of St. Andrew’s United Church and an avid musician.  And perhaps most of all, was best known for his generosity and endless hours of volunteer service.

On Tuesday, September 19, Amy passed away at the Miramichi Regional Hospital at the age of 85.

Blackville Mayor Christopher Hennessy released the following statement on Wednesday, “I am saddened to hear the passing of such an upstanding individual within our community. I will always have fond memories of hearing Amy and his groups performing at the park year after year on various occasions, not to mention the countless benefits and fundraisers.” he continued, “Amy has helped each and every one of us in one way or another, and has certainly left behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.”

“[Amy was] one of the best. In most events in our area that needed a sound system with no cost, Amy provided it. Repairs to St John Ambulance for many years was done by Amy, you guessed it, no charge.”, Eugene Donovan shared in a tribute posted on Facebook, “If you needed a good joke, Amy could give you that too. If Amy doesn’t whistle through the Pearly Gates, there’s very little hope for the rest of us. Rest well my friend, you surely have earned it.”

Jake Stewart, MLA for Southwest Miramichi-Bay du Vin considered Amy his hero:

“There are many people who inspire others, but so few who do it every single day. Amy Jardine was the heart and soul of this entire region. His story should be told to the largest of audiences. His story should be taught in our school system. Many of us today discuss the ideas of volunteerism and giving back to the community. Amy Jardine has immortalized how to use a musical gift to give back to his community, and he did so with kindness and grace his entire life. Music is a gift from above, and Amy knew it all too well. He’s taught all of us this.

As a young boy Amy would always let me play his guitars even when I couldn’t play a chord. The first song I ever recorded was at Amy’s house. I’ll never forget that for as long as I live. Any time we needed chords, a system, a lesson, he was there to help. Music is something I love, but nobody inspired me more than Amy Jardine. And I imagine there are a lot of musicians and singers who feel the same way.

I hope that one day we can erect a statue of Amy Jardine here in the village to honour him for helping thousands upon thousands of people who were sick and in need. His generosity is unparalleled. So many of us have been inspired by his music and how he embodied giving back to the community. But more than anything, he gave people hope.

He’s my hero.

On behalf of myself, and all of us in Southwest Miramichi-Bay du Vin, I extend my deepest sympathies to the entire family.”

Mr. Amos Ephriam (Amy) Jardine is resting at St. Andrew’s United Church Hall, Blackville, with visitation on Thursday September 21, from 4pm to 8pm and Friday September 22 from 4pm to 8pm. There will be no funeral service. A Celebration of Life will be celebrated on Saturday September 30, from 2pm to 5pm at St. Andrew’s United Church Hall, Blackville, with a reception to follow. A private family burial will be in the church cemetery.

In his memory, donations to Amy Jardine Memorial Fund would be appreciated.

Click a photo to enlarge.