06/23/2026
On Saturday June 20th, we remember and honour the life of Lieutenant Joel Neily (Kentville, N.S.)
A devoted firefighter, family man, and friend who faced a courageous battle with lymphoma in the last couple of years.
The service was a beautiful and powerful tribute, with the entire Kentville community coming together to honour what a kind and loving person Joel set out to be. It was a moving reminder of the incredible impact Joel had on so many lives, and the deep respect he earned through his dedication, courage, and compassion.
As we reflect on Joel’s legacy, our Halifax team is committed to continuing that impact. This fall, we will be hosting a Community Light The Night Walk in Kentville, Nova Scotia (details to come) and we warmly invite everyone to join us. Together, we can carry Joel’s spirit forward and support Canadian families impacted by blood cancer.
One of Joel’s final wishes was to continue to support Light The Night through his community. If you are able, we encourage you to honour his legacy by contributing to his campaign and helping bring hope to others facing a similar journey.
💛 Donate to Joel's legacy: https://secure.llscanada.org/site/TR/LTN/LTN?pg=personal&px=1850957&fr_id=1806
Rest easy, Joel. Your light continues to guide us.
On behalf of all the members of our department, we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who joined us today to honor and celebrate the life of our brother, Engineer 1st Class, Lieutenant Joel Neily.
The outpouring of support shown by fellow firefighters, first responders, friends and community members was both humbling and deeply appreciated. Seeing so many people stand alongside us was a powerful reminder of the impact Joel had on those around him and the respect he earned throughout his life.
To those who marched with us, attended the service, sent messages, shared memories, offered prayers, or simply kept Joel and his family in your thoughts—thank you. Your kindness and support have provided comfort during an incredibly difficult time.
Joel served with pride, dedication and commitment to helping others. While we mourn his loss, we are grateful for the opportunity to honor him in a manner befitting the remarkable firefighter, friend, husband, father, and man that he was.
The sound of the final alarm may have marked the end of Joel's watch, but his legacy will continue to live on in our department, our communities, and in the hearts of all who knew him.
Thank you all for helping us give our brother the farewell he so greatly deserved.
Rest easy, Joel. We have it from here.