Barbara Phyllis Leonard (née Shaw) passed away peacefully on September 27th, surrounded by a lifetime of memories and the love of so many people who were fortunate enough to know her. Born on October 17th, 1926, in Victoria, BC, to Robert and Nellie May Shaw, Barbara was just 20 days shy of her 100th birthday.
Barbara grew up in Victoria and attended Monterey School, Oak Bay High School and Victoria College before graduating from UBC with a Bachelor of Commerce. Before her marriage, she worked at CJVI radio, beginning a life that would be filled with family, friendships, community involvement and many adventures.
In 1952, Barbara married Anthony (Tony) Leonard. Tony’s military career took them to Halifax and Kingston before bringing them home to Victoria, where they shared many happy years together.
Barbara felt strongly about giving back to the community and volunteered with the Consumers Association, PEO (Chapter AR) and Probus Club, giving generously of her time and energy. She had many interests and talents, including sewing, knitting, cooking and baking. Her children fondly remember her amazing lemon squares and fruitcake.
Barbara was also an avid golfer and tennis player and enjoyed an active life well into her later years. She and Tony loved to travel, making wonderful memories on family trips and vacations to Mexico, throughout the United States and to Europe, where Tony’s family lived. Barbara was predeceased by her husband, Tony, in 2018, and by her eldest daughter, Andrea Telford, in 2021. She is survived by her daughters, Bobbi Williams (Bruce) and Julie Gibson (Don); six grandchildren, James (Ashley), Kate (Paul), Allison (Andrew), Christine (Matt), Jeremy (Samantha) and Anthony; and five great-granddaughters, Marley, Emmy, Georgia, Quinn and Zoe.
Barbara leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the people she cared for and the memories they will carry with them.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at AgeCare on Willow 2nd for the kindness, compassion and care they gave Barbara over the past eight years.
No service will be held. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Pancreatic Cancer Canada in memory of Barbara’s daughter Andrea.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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