Barbara Lynn Purvis passed away peacefully on December 11, 2025 in Victoria British Columbia after a courageous battle with cancer lasting more than three years. She was 74 years old.
Barbara was born on April 5, 1951 in Ancaster Ontario to John (Jack) Fraser Freeborn and Dorothy Agnes Freeborn (nee Jones). Although her final years were spent on Vancouver Island, Barbara lived the vast majority of her life in southern Ontario. This is where she built deep roots, lifelong friendships and a career devoted to education.
A passionate and dedicated teacher for more than three decades, Barbara taught students in grades one through eight and also served as a teacher librarian. She believed deeply in the power of learning, kindness and encouragement, and she left a lasting impression on countless students through her patience and love of reading.
Barbara is survived by her loving husband of 46 years Barry Purvis, her son, Carl Purvis and daughter-in-law Jessie Purvis and her cherished granddaughter Quinn Purvis who brought her immense joy. Barbara also leaves behind her loving sister Lori (Bill) Maurin and her brother John Freeborn (predeceased) and sister in law Beverly.
Outside the classroom, Barbara had a keen eye for style and interior design. She loved plants and gardening, home decor and renovations. She could often be found watching home shows seeking inspiration and ideas. She especially treasured time spent enjoying Florida sunsets, moments that reflected her appreciation for beauty, calm and thoughtful design.
Barbara will be remembered for her strength in creativity and devotion to family and the care she showed for everyone fortunate enough to have known her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
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Bill & Joyce Mullally
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Pat Richardson Barry; My condolences to you and your family. It’s been many years since we last met at St. Johns reunion and Barb was such a delightful person to meet.
Thoughts and Prayers are with you.
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Father Charlie Love and prayers to you, Barry, and your family. Your friend in Christ, Father Charlie Galea.
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Sharon ( Gregg) Gunn and Alex Gunn Dear Barry , Carl and family,
Please know our prayers and thoughts are with you all at this time.My husband Alex and I much appreciated the warm caring ❤️ person our cousin Barry had married. The time we spent together at your Sherbrook Lake cottage and at Hubbards Beach were so thoughtful and caring. Know that we are thinking of you in the days ahead.
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Megan Vickery I am saddened to hear of Barb’s passing. She was such a wonderful educator and colleague. Her smile would light up the room and my students and I benefitted from her wisdom in the library more times than I can count. She was a mentor and wonderful role model to me and she will be missed.
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Marcel and Kathy We are very sorry to hear about Barbara’s passing. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. Wishing you strength and comfort during this difficult time.
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Vee & Terry Hayward Dearest Barry, Carl & Family,
Words can’t express how saddened we were to hear about Barbie’s passing. I had the privilege of working with Barbie in the early years of our teaching careers at Major Ballachey School followed by several years at Branlyn School (1978- 1992). Barbie’s compassion, wit, & calm approach to teaching & problem solving quickly gained my respect & devotion resulting in a life long friendship spanning over 45 years. Although we were not always living in close vicinity, our friendship never faltered. When Barbie & her soulmate Barry made the decision to move across the country to Vancouver, we were sorry to see them go but happy they would be near their son Carl & love of their life, granddaughter, Quinn. Barbie will always hold a warm place in mine & Terry’s heart & will be missed dearly.
Sending our heartfelt condolences to Barry, Carl & Family.
Vee & Terry
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John Dodd My thoughts are with you and Carl and his family at this time. Barb was a kind and caring person…..and wonderful and supportive co- worker, mother and wife. She has touched many students and fellow teachers. I will always have fond memories of visiting your home here and in Florida.
Dear Barry
So sorry to hear of the news. As children, Barb and John were always at our house or vice versa and we spent countless hours doing what children do. Extended families seemed closer in those days.
At your wedding, in my Toast to the Bride I pointed out that “kindness and bountiful beauty” was what characterized Barbara. This was not merely “fluff” in a speech. It is what I saw then and I’m sure what you’ve experienced since. We will always remember Barbara in that light.
cousin Bill & Joyce Mullally