It is with profound sadness that we say goodbye to a much beloved grandfather and father. Rodney Winston Billard passed away on October 7, 2025 at the age of 91.

Rodney was one of twelve brothers and sisters born to Henry and Bessie Billard in the small outport community of Grand Bruit, Newfoundland. No stranger to hard work, Rodney spent his youth fishing with his father and brothers on skiffs and dories in rough ocean waters. He left home at a very young age to pursue life on the water; Rodney enjoyed many years at sea with Imperial Oil on various tankers, before settling on land in Halifax with his beloved wife, Madeline, and three young children. They had an active social life with fond memories of the Newfoundland Club, house parties, and a competitive bowling streak. He took pride in his ability to provide for his family and worked a variety of jobs in the home heating industry of Halifax spanning over three decades.

Rodney and Madeline moved to Middleton to be closer to their grandchildren in 1993. They quickly became familiar members of the community and hosted many visitors on their back deck at 132 School Street. Rodney treasured his family and became affectionately known as either "Poppy" or "Uncle Rod" to his loved ones. Madeline experienced challenges with her health from an early age and, throughout her life, Rodney was a dedicated and loving support. In her later years, he advocated for increased accessibility of health care and the continued operation of Soldiers' Memorial Hospital. He missed her dearly for the remainder of his life.

He frequently made trips throughout Nova Scotia and Newfoundland to remain connected and ever-present in the lives of family and friends. Regardless of where he travelled and who he met, people consistently spoke of his kindness, friendliness, and outgoing nature. Whether it was the people of Middleton that he interacted with on his trips around town, including his time at the post office and grocery store, or the folks that he would drive hours to see, some of whom he had not seen in decades; all of these individuals experienced his outstanding capacity for love, loyalty, and friendship.

In his later years, Rodney cherished his memories and shared them widely with visitors. He loved to put on a record of Newfie music and show photographs from his past. He especially enjoyed recounting stories of silly occurrences, humorous tales, and unique experiences. He was persistently generous and guests to his house would find it difficult to leave without berries from his garden, baked goods from his kitchen or, in his friend Edward's case, a tall glass of orange juice.

Throughout his life, Poppy was surrounded by so much joy and love. As he would say, "That's the main thing."

Rodney is survived by his son William (Julie) Billard, daughter Wanda Billard, and daughter-in-law LeeAnn Billard; his brothers, Mike (Georgina) Billard and Wendall Billard; his sisters, Julia Annand and Lillian (Frank) Hann;  his grandchildren, Richard (Lyndsey) Billard, Ryan (Leahan) Billard, Stephen (Caley) Cole, Laura (Travis) Elliott, and Trinity Billard; his great-grandchildren, Kaley, Kenzie, Parker, Piper, Leona, and Tory; and many beloved members of his extended family.

He was predeceased by his wife of 51 years, Madeline Jane Billard; his son, Rodney Martin "Marty" Billard; and seven siblings: brothers, Eric, George, Gerald, Jack, Simeon, Wilbert, and sister, Mabel.

We would like to thank the nurses and doctors at Soldiers' Memorial Hospital, his family doctor, Dr. Kevin McGuire, and Senior Home Care by Angels who provided homecare to Rodney. Donations can be made in support of the Soldiers' Memorial Hospital Foundation. There will be a private, family graveside service at a later date.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main Street 1-855-825-3448. Online guestbook may be signed by visiting: www.middletonfuneralhome.com