BARRASS (Durkee, Gray), Barbara Merle – 87, Bible Hill. The children of Barbara Barrass sadly announce the passing of their mother on Tuesday, January 7, 2014, at Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro. Born July 4, 1926 in Plymouth, Yarmouth County, Barbara was the third child of the late Gerald and Hattie (Gates) Gray and the last surviving member of her immediate family. She dearly loved her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and was a joy to all. The beach was her favorite place on earth, where she was happiest and most at peace. Barb's interests included gardening, where she spent many contented hours. She also excelled in sewing, knitting and various types of needle work and her family were the recipients of many treasures. She loved the Jays and the Leafs, word puzzles and playing games of all kinds. Barb worked at the NSAC library in Bible Hill for a number of years. She was a long-time member of First Baptist Church, Truro, and was involved in various church groups and activities. She was a member of the Truro chapter of the I.O.D.E. Recently, Barb joined a yoga class at First Baptist where she thoroughly enjoyed both the health and social benefits. In addition to her parents, Barbara was predeceased by first husband and the father of her children, Victor E. Durkee; her second husband, G. Roland Barrass; sisters, Shirley and Marina; brothers, Bernard, Malcolm, Bryan and Donn. Mum is survived by her daughters, Judith Marshall (Scott), Lynne O'Pray (David), Beth Durkee (Alan Huestis); her son, Alan Durkee (Ellen); 13 grandchildren; 15 great- grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren. In addition, Barb is survived by Roland's children, Janet Burnett, Robert Barrass and James Barrass, their spouses, children and grandchildren. The family wishes to express their most sincere gratitude to the caring and professional staff at the hospital, especially those on D3, E2 and the ICU. Your warmth and tenderness as you cared for our mother over the past four weeks was appreciated by Mum and the entire family. Very special thanks to Dr. Cam Jeffrey. There will be a private family service. All are welcome to attend a memorial celebration and reception that will be held at 2-4 p.m., Friday, January 10, 2014, in Memorial Hall, First Baptist Church, 759 Prince Street, Truro. Spring interment will be held in Bible Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church, Colchester East Hants Health Centre Foundation or charity of choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Private messages of condolences may be sent to the family by viewing Barbara’s obituary on-line and selecting “Send A Condolence” at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com