BARBARA WILLIAMS

BARBARA KATHLEEN WILLIAMS
The family of Barbara Kathleen Williams is heartbroken to announce her passing after a lengthy battle with Parkinson's disease. She passed away, surrounded by love at Pioneer Ridge on September 16, 2025. Barb was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin and friend whose warmth and compassion will be missed by many.

Barb was born on July 11, 1954 in Port Arthur, Ontario to Kay and Ted McDonald. She attended Current River Elementary School, Lakeview High School and received her Early Childhood Education diploma from Confederation College. Barb loved all children, caring for many over the years, both in her home and at Kinderplace Daycare.

In 1969, Barb went on a hayride and met the love of her life, Craig Williams. They were inseparable and were married in 1975. They would have celebrated 50 years of marriage this past January. Soon came the other loves of her life - their children Jessica, Jonathan and Jason; all of whom she was so devoted to. Adventures were had - endless road trips, tent camping in Provincial Parks, holiday traditions, and so much family fun. Time flew by, and in 2007 Barb wholeheartedly embraced a new role - Grandma. Barb absolutely adored all six of her grandchildren and treasured spending time with them.

Barb did everything for everybody. She touched many lives and gave up countless hours to causes close to her heart. Barb had a strong Anglican faith and was deeply involved with the A.C.W. here and at the Deanery level. She volunteered for years with the Mission to Seafarers. She canvassed for the Heart And Stroke Foundation. Barb was very involved in her children's school careers, serving as S.J.A.M P.T.A President; fundraising for playground equipment and serving up hotdog days. Many will remember her as the cook at Camp Gitchigomee, where many happy memories were made. Barb was a devoted daughter, and in her mother's later years she was a compassionate caregiver to her. Family meant the most to Barb. She was known to never miss a birthday, with a card and a phone call serenade. She could always be counted on as head cheerleader in her children's and grandchildren's lives, celebrating every accomplishment, big or small.

Barb lit up every room she entered, her heart was as big as her smile. Barb was an incredibly gifted seamstress, even crafting five dresses for Jessica's wedding, including the bridal gown. She loved to knit and gift her creations to many. Barb was also a talented baker and cook. She enjoyed reading mysteries and watching them on television. She loved a glass of wine and some dark chocolate. Barb loved the summer and sitting out in the sun. Her most happy summers were spent at Camp 15 on Clover Beach and at Camp Gitchigomee on Sandstone Lake, as well as camping and road tripping with family. Barb savoured all life had to offer, and though she was quite busy, she always took time to stop and smell the roses...even at the grocery store!

Barb is survived by her children, Jessica McDonald (Bill), Jonathan Williams (Julie) and Jason Williams (Danielle); her beloved grandchildren, Theodore and Alvin McDonald, Kinsey and Beckett Williams, and Alia and J.J Williams. Also survived by her brother-in-law Don Williams, nephew Terry Williams, niece Kristin Williams, great-nieces Brooke (Mike) and Ashley Williams, sister Georgina Slobodzian (Steve) and nieces Lyndsy and Stacey Slobodzian.

Barb is predeceased by her loving husband Craig Williams, her parents Kay and Ted McDonald, her sister-in-law Kathy Williams and her dear nephew Trevor Williams.

Endless thanks and sincere appreciation to the entire staff of Plaza 4 at Pioneer Ridge for their incredible care of Mom. You were all so good to her, and have been so kind and comforting during this devastating time. Heartfelt thanks to both Kristin Williams and Carole Leroux for their unwavering support.

Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of Barb's life will take place on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Sargent and Son Funeral Home, 21 N. Court Street. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you consider donating to Camp Gitchigomee Anglican Church Camp (www.campgitchigomee.ca), The Michael J. Fox Foundation (Michaeljfox.org), or the Therapeutic Recreation Department at Pioneer Ridge.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.sargentandson.com