Robert “Bob” James Loftus White, a retired Judge of the Provincial Court of Nova Scotia, passed away on August 2, 2024. He was 86 years old.

Born in Montreal, and raised in Moncton and Halifax, Judge White graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Saint Mary’s University and earned his Bachelor of Laws from Dalhousie University. He was called to the Nova Scotia Bar in 1967.

Judge White began his legal career with the federal government in Ottawa before moving to private practice in Fredericton and then New Glasgow. He was appointed to the Family Court of Nova Scotia on January 7, 1983, presiding in New Glasgow. He elected supernumerary status in 2003 and retired in 2013.

As a lawyer, Judge White served as a Member of the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society Bar Council and was a member of Stellarton Town Council. He also held leadership roles with Summer Street Industries, an organization that creates opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities, and Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

“I was very sorry to hear of Judge White’s passing. He had a long, successful career in the legal profession and on the bench, and he always made time to give back to his community. On behalf of the Provincial Court of Nova Scotia, I offer my deep sympathy and condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones. I know he’ll be missed by all those who knew him,” said The Hon. Perry Borden, Chief Judge of the Provincial Court.

Judges of Nova Scotia’s Provincial Court also shared memories of Judge White:

“I have fond memories of Bob as a commanding presence in the courtroom,” said Provincial Court Judge Del Atwood. “He was a no-nonsense judge who appreciated brevity but was always cordial with counsel.  He had a deep appreciation of the challenges inherent in family law.  He loved the law and understood the importance of the work of the judiciary.  After I was appointed to the bench, he reached out as a mentor; given his decades of experience, I found I always came away having learned a lot whenever we chatted.  He will be missed.”

"Judge White's care and concern for his fellow citizens was utmost in his mind as he carried out his judicial responsibilities,” said Provincial Court Judge Alanna Murphy. “That concern was not just apparent when he was on the bench but was evidenced by his many years of community involvement."

To read Judge White’s full obituary, visit H.W. Angus & H.C. MacQuarrie Funeral Homes website.