Brian Joseph Kerfont

On January 12, 2026, held in the loving arms of his partner Catherine, Brian Joseph Kerfont, age 69, passed peacefully after a courageous and determined battle with cancer.

Brian was born and raised in Cape St. George, the beloved only child of Lawrence and Cecilia Kerfont. Following high school, he pursued his love of language and learning at St. Anne’s University and Memorial University, earning degrees in French Studies and Education. Brian dedicated many years to education before retiring in 2018 from CNA in Stephenville.

In retirement, Brian settled in Twillingate, where he built a life filled with the things that brought him the greatest joy. An avid hiker, Brian loved to trek along oceanside trails listening to his francophone playlist and easily outpaced others in his group. He found contentment in nature, spending time berry picking (one for the bucket, two for his mouth), beachcombing, and tending his greenhouse – usually in the company of the neighbours’ sweet cat, Moe, whom he cherished as his own. Brian loved his furry friends and found comfort during his illness from his feline friend, Toby.

Brian also enjoyed puttering in his garage, where he crafted beautiful driftwood garden stakes, built Adirondack chairs, and searched endlessly for misplaced items. A passionate genealogist, Brian devoted many hours to researching family histories, always eager to ask others about their surnames and was delighted to share an interesting discovery in return.

Brian was known for making a bottle of wine or two, a pastime he enjoyed almost as much as he enjoyed sampling and sharing it. He loved good food and was happiest when it was savored in good company, gathered around the dining room table for hours with family and friends who visited from near and far. Brian was always eager to prepare a delicious meal, whether it was perfectly cooked steaks, pizza on the stone, or persuading Cathy that a little salt wouldn’t hurt and that they were long overdue for Jigg’s Dinner. He relished his daily cribbage challenge with Cathy and was always ready for a hand of cards with family and friends. Above all, Brian loved good stories, good laughs, and good company.

Brian was predeceased by his son Julien on January 8, 2026. He leaves to mourn his parents, Lawrence and Cecilia; his partner, Catherine Coole; his daughter Lia and her son Xander; his son Justin Cornect (Lori) and their daughter Abby; as well as close extended family members and dear friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the healthcare professionals and support staff who cared for Brian throughout his cancer journey, and to the family and friends whose unwavering kindness, support, and presence meant more than words can express. Angels truly do walk among us.

Donations in Brian’s memory may be made to the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Centre, Daffodil Place, or a charity of one’s choice.

Honouring Brian’s wishes, cremation has taken place with interment in Cape St. George at a later date.

 “End? No, the journey doesn’t end here. Death is just another path, one that we all must take.”

– J.R.R. Tolkien