ARNILL, Barbara

Peacefully passed away at her home surrounded by family on Thursday, May 12, 2016 in her 83rd year. Beloved wife of the late William Arnill and partner of the late Barry Collins. Much loved mother of Constance Hunter (late John), Valerie Nicholson (Mac), Rick Arnill (Sandy), Sharon Vanderburg (Eric), and Sandra McBain (Don). Cherished Grandmother of Amanda, David, Marcy Clark (Mitch), Greg Nicholson (Terri), Jamie Lynn Graham (Aaron), Kyle, Andrew, Josh, Sarah, and Rory. Special Great Grandmother of Rylee, Michael, Aidan, Isabella, Charlotte and Declan. Second Mom to Vicki Collins, and special Nana to Matthew and Adam. Daughter of the late Leslie and Margaret Russ. Dear sister of Gail Steele (late John), Don Russ (Barb), late Myrna Sulphur (Ray), late Dean Russ (Dolly), and the late Gary Russ (Juliette). Sister-in-law of the late Mabel Hagger (late Ken), and Patricia Maville (Maurice). Aunt to many nieces and nephews. Barbara was well respected within the local music community, she provided musicians and vocalists with the tools they needed for their talents at Arnills music, a business she ran for 30 years. Customers developed relationships that blossomed into lifelong friendships. Barbara was thrilled when Mike Case and Dave Patterson created an award in her name presented annually at the Northern Ontario Country Awards for an individual who has contributed to the development of country music. Barb was so proud to present this award, and loved the annual display of talent. A big fan of the local music scene, Barbara loved to listen to the bands and was always on the dance floor. Barry and Barb could have danced all night! Barb loved to sing and performed with the St. John’s orchestra in her hometown of Thessalon, she was a member of the Gordon Christie singers, and performed in several Soo Opera productions. Barb would often sing out loud on shopping errands and car rides cultivating the joy of song in her family. Barb’s family was her greatest pride and joy. We are so grateful for the family values she has fostered, and how she taught us to be respectful, strength based, and content with the simple goodness in life. Friends may call at the Arthur Funeral Home & Cremation Centre on Monday, May 16, 2016 from 12:30 until 1:30 pm with a service to follow in the chapel at 2 pm. Mr. George Wright officiating. A come and go celebration of Barbara’s life will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion (96 Great Northern Rd.) from 4 – 7 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions made to the Algoma Conservatory of Music would be appreciated by the family. Thank you to the staff of 3B, and the cancer care staff and volunteers at SAH, Dr. Spadafora, Dr. Pearce, Dr. Ben Musa, Dr. Fratesi, the CCAC coordination of care, especially the loving care and professionalism provided by the home care team Lisa Palmer, Brenna Kendrick, Crystal Spooner, the palliative care physicians Dr. Booth and Dr. Buehner, the Medigas professionals, Dr. Dawson at Princess Margaret and the Princess Margaret Lodge. Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.arthurfuneralhome.com