Obituary of Barbara Durling

Barbara Lynn (Depow) Durling passed away peacefully in the presence of family members at York Care Centre in Fredericton on June 18, 2014. Barbara was born in Woodstock, N.B. on May 23, 1949, the daughter of the late William and Helen (Somerville) Depow. She spent her early years in Canterbury before moving to Fredericton where she graduated from Fredericton High School and the University of New Brunswick. During her career, Barbara occupied various positions in both the public and private sectors including those with the provincial government and her family’s business. She was an active community member who championed several important issues including the need for a second high school in Fredericton, resulting in the establishment of Leo Hayes High School. Barbara loved spending time with family and friends, traveling and meeting new people and being in the tranquility of nature. She was a fantastic chef who instilled her love for cooking in her daughters. Her kind heart and zest for life touched everyone round her. She will be missed each and every day. Barbara is survived by husband Lawrence, daughters Catherine (Michael Mercier) and Emily, grandson Onyx, sister Charlotte Valley (Bruce), brothers William (Jill) and Stephen (Marita) and a number of nieces and nephews. Barbara’s family wishes to express their gratitude to the dedicated staff of the York Care Centre who cared for her unwaveringly throughout her illness. We are forever thankful for your compassion and commitment to Barb. A reception to honour and celebrate Barbara’s life will be held at York Funeral Home on Sunday June 22, 2014 from 3-5 pm. A private funeral service is planned. For those who wish, donations may be made to the York Care Foundation or a charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com