It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara on Monday May 12th, 2025, at the age of 87. Faithful, resourceful, loving and stubborn mom of Kathy Dickinson (Jay), Mary Deschene (Paul) and Julianne Spooner (late Marcel). Proud grandma of the late Waylan Dickinson, Brandan Dickinson (Katie), Cody Deschene, Brett Deschene and Megan Spooner (Ryan).
Predeceased by her husband Percy and sister Lynn. Barbara will be fondly remembered by her sister Kathryn (Ülo), her nieces, nephews, friends, the parish of Sainte Marie du Sault, Holy Family Parish as well as the staff and patrons of Giant Tiger, Market Mall.
She was a firecracker—spirited, outspoken, and full of love. Her generosity had no bounds. Whether you were family, a friend, or even a stranger, if you needed something, she'd find a way to help.
When she wasn't knitting or sewing, she could often be found with her nose buried in a book—devouring mystery novels and Harlequins like candy, finishing an entire paperback in a single day. She also had a deep love for crime shows, and when she wasn’t reading, she was watching the latest mysteries on her iPad. Bargain shopping was another one of her passions; she could easily spend hours hunting for deals, returning home with "just a few things" that somehow filled the entire backseat.
Barbara was also an excellent cook, especially when it came to preparing meals for family gatherings, always taking pleasure in feeding those she loved.
In an interview for a grandchild’s school project years ago, she shared the advice she hoped would carry forward to her great-grandchildren and beyond: “Remember one another and that God is there to help you.” When asked what she hoped people would remember about her, she answered with humility: “If I have ever done anything to hurt you, please forgive me.”
Family and friends are invited to O’Sullivan Funeral Home on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 12:30pm-1:30pm. A Funeral Mass at Holy Family Parish (208 Prentice Ave) will take place at 2:00pm with Father Boguslaw Jaroszek officiating. Burial at Holy Sepulchre will follow.
To respect her wishes, please no flower deliveries. Memorial contributions to Église Sainte Marie du Sault, Holy Family Church or Cystic Fibrosis Foundation would be greatly appreciated.
The family would like to extend their appreciation and gratitude to the paramedics and SSM police who responded swiftly.
Visit www.osullivanfuneralhome.com to leave condolences for the family. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).