Barb Edwards of Englehart passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at Englehart and District Hospital on August 2, 2019, at the age of 70.
Barb battled breast cancer twice and most recently lung cancer. Her grandchildren often referred to their Gramma as “the bravest lady they’ve ever known.”
Barb was born in Englehart on May 26, 1949, to Herbert and Ruby Edwards.
Barb completed her elementary and secondary school education in Englehart. She later attended nursing college in North Bay. She pursued this career with passion and dedication up to her retirement in 2004.
Barb married Harvey Parker on June 12, 1971, at St. Paul’s Church in Englehart. Together they had three sons, Jason, Chad and Curt Parker.
Barb is survived by her sons Jason Parker (Cathy Hinz) of Englehart, Chad (Melanie) Parker of Englehart and Curt Parker (Danielle Fleming) of Sault St. Marie.
She was “Gramma” to grandchildren Logan and Katelin (Katie) Parker, Layla Parker, Keysha McKinnon and Jake Hinz.
She is survived by brother Normand (Kay) Edwards of Killoloe, Ontario; brother Jim (Ann) Edwards of Calgary, Alberta; sister Berth (Claude Pellerin) of Kitchener; brother George (Sandra) Edwards of Englehart; sister Mary (Richard Johnston) of Kitchener; brother Barry Edwards of Terrace, B.C.; sister-in-law Jeanie Edwards of Kitchener; partner Daniel Racette of Englehart; and many nieces and nephews.
Barb was predeceased by her parents Herbert and Ruby Edwards; her husband Roland Desilets; her sister Nora Carmicheal; and her brother Raymond Edwards.
Barb treasured her time with family and friends. She enjoyed preparing large family meals, working in her garden, walks at Kap-Kig-Iwan Park with her grandchildren and dog Missy, and travelling and camping throughout Canada.
She brought enthusiasm, friendship and commitment to her community as a member of her church and the Red Hats, and later as an important member of the Timiskaming Hospice Palliative Care group, for which she received her certificate of appreciation for 15 years of service.
She was a loving mother and grandmother who always put the needs of others above her own.
Her loyalty touched all of those who had the privilege to know her. You could always count on Barb to stand up for what was right and for what she believed in!
Funeral arrangements were made by McDonald Funeral Home in Englehart. Cremation has taken place. Memorial and burial details to follow.
In memory contributions to the Timiskaming Hospice Palliative Care program at Englehart and District Hospital would be greatly appreciated by the family.