James "Boots" Henry Wilson, 76, passed away in Lower Sackville, N.S. on June 21, 2025, with family by his side.

Survived by his wife Nina, children Sherry, Kim (Brooklyn) and Nick, grandchildren Alexis, Emily, Jack, Grey and Kane, and his best buddy and dog, Cooper. He was predeceased by his parents, Gertrude and George, brother Robert and sister Diane.

Jim lived in Lower Sackville his entire life and was proud of his deep roots to the community. In 1969, he started working at Sackville Downs Raceway, which ignited his love of harness racing. He retired as labourer with Halifax Regional Municipality when he often boasted to his family that he was the best snowplow operator “in the land!” Missing harness racing, he drove the starting gate at Truro Raceway until his illness interfered. He was happiest outdoors hunting or fishing with his mother, brothers and cousins, or picking blueberries in remote fields he somehow found. He loved all animals and smiled when birds visited his feeders.

Cremation has taken place and a private remembrance of his life will take place over the summer.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the ALS Society of NB and NS, or to the IHERC Animal Rescue Society, which rescues horses and other farm animals in distress.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of James Wilson.