Barbara, age 73 years, passed away peacefully early Thursday, October 6, 2016 at the Provincial Palliative Care Centre surrounded by family, and welcomed into the arms of her Lord and Saviour. This gentle, gracious and charismatic woman was the rock and matriarch of our family: a loving wife to Nelson, a fiercely proud mother to Kurt (Rupal) and Brynne, a sister to Don (Marion) and Susan, “BB” to three grandchildren (Kyle, Asha and Abigail) whom she loved and adored with all of her being, a talented musician and teacher, and a true friend to those who were blessed to know her. She shared her heart fully with those who deserved it. She was funny, witty, enthusiastic about life, full of adventure, intuitive to other people’s needs, and possessed an admirable gift of being able to connect with people from all walks of life. She was like a second mother to many, offering friendship and gentle guidance, and shared her many insights and life experiences that would leave and impact and make you think. She valued family and traditions that will be carried on by generations to come, she offered her opinions lovingly (even if it wasn’t a popular one), her spaghetti sauce was legendary, and she had a distinct voice and laugh that soared above any other, even in a room full of people. Barb lived a life full of passion; for her family and friends, the place she lived, and the things she loved….these are the things that brought her joy. She loved going to the beach, watching the diamonds on the water, and the smell of the salt air. She taught us about compassion, empathy, kindness, and being appreciative of the things that we had. Richness didn’t come from material things, but from the little things that meant so much. We are all better for having known her, and shared life with her. Professionally, Barbara was fortunate to have an inspiring, fulfilling and distinguished career in music and teaching, which spanned more than 40 years. In that time, she left an impression with hundreds of people who will remember her for her love of teaching, her knowledge, and her enthusiasm for her craft. She held many volunteer positions with local music festivals over the years, and served on the National Boards of the Federation of Canadian Music Festivals, the Canada Council for the Arts, and the Association of Canadian Choral Conductors. She was held in high regards by her professional colleagues, and both presented and represented her beloved PEI on a National level. In 2006 Barbara was beyond humbled when she was appointed as the 40th Lieutenant Governor of PEI. In the 5 years that followed, she was recognized with several distinctions: as Dame of Justice of the Order of St. John, she was awarded the Order of PEI, and was recognized for her contributions to Island life and culture with an Honorary Doctor of Laws from UPEI in 2014. She experienced things, travelled places, and met people that most of us could only imagine. Her life was full. We are enormously grateful and privileged to have celebrated, shared life, loved and been loved by such a gracious, dignified and beautiful woman. She loved the Island and its’ people. She arrived on PEI in June, 1965 as the new bride of Nelson. She was here about a week and said she never wanted to leave the Island, and immediately considered herself an Islander. She was ecstatic when her brother Don, who was researching the family tree, discovered their Great Grandfather came from Alberton. She then knew why she had such a strong connection to the Island. In music, and in life, she made a beautiful sound. Resting at Belvedere Funeral Home until Monday, then to St. James Presbyterian Church for funeral service at 2 p.m., followed by a private burial. Visitation on Sunday, from 2-5 p.m. Family flowers only. Memorial Donations to the Provincial Palliative Care Centre would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be sent to www.belvederefh.com.

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