REBECCA (RENEE) WATSON KELLY BARBER (JAMIESON)

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REBECCA (RENEE) WATSON KELLY BARBER (nee JAMIESON) November 23, 1919 - February 20, 2008 It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our beloved Nana on February 20, 2008 at the age of 88. Nana will be lovingly remembered and her memory always treasured by Granddaughter Corinne (Paul), Grandson Matt (Francine), Son-in-law Corky McCorquodale, Great-Grandchildren Kenton, Matthew, Evelyn Rose, A.J., and John, lifelong family friend Marion McKinlay, Niece Donna Remillard, and Nephew Duncan (Shelley) Ross. Nana will be missed by numerous friends and extended family. Nana was predeceased by infant daughter Patricia, Dad and Mum Matt and Lizzie Jamieson, Daughter Maureen McCorquodale, Sister Grace Ross, and Husband Bob Barber. Nana was born in Belfast, Ireland on November 23, 1919 and not expected to survive. Weighing less than two pounds, she was wrapped in cheesecloth and placed beside the hearth in a shoebox by her Grandma Lennon. As a baby, Nana made the ocean voyage and began her life in Canada with her family. As a young girl she was quite the tomboy and found her share of mischief. Nana grew up in a home that was full of family and friends, music and song, love and laughter; a true Irish upbringing. Nana carried that love of laughter, music and family with her for all of her 88 years. Nana grew to become a beautiful lady and was married on her 21st birthday to Robert Kelly. They were blessed with the birth of Maureen, Nana's precious daughter. Nana's career life involved her wonderful ability to sew. Nana was a beautiful seamstress and was truly gifted with her hands! Nana spent 60 years enjoying time at The Beach, a cottage she helped her Dad build. Nana loved to read, but after she lost her vision, Nana enjoyed T.V., especially mysteries and thrillers. Nana didn't have perfect health. She spent a year bedridden with meningitis, had numerous operations, suffered with severe arthritis and became blind. Nana never gave up and always enjoyed life. She was the strongest willed person we've ever known. Nana married Bob Barber in 1986 and moved to Ashbury Place. She has been a member of Ashbury Place Seniors Club for over 20 years and is affectionately known as Kelly and The Candy Lady. Nana enjoyed the bingos, bake sales, casino trips, dinners and dances (Nana was a beautiful dancer!) Nana lived her life with love and generosity. She loved flowers, dancing, St. Patrick's Day, drinking tea and yelling bingo . Most of all, Nana loved her family. Nana's greatest joy was her Two Sweethearts Kenton and Matthew. Nana was the Best Nannie in the world! Nana moved in with Cori, Paul, Kenton and Matthew four and one-half years ago and we are truly thankful to God for our time with her. Nana is very much loved and will be deeply missed. Nana will always be a part of who we are. Should friends so desire, remembrances in Nana's name may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, or a charity of one's choice. We would like to thank the staff of the Grace Hospital for the care and compassion Nana received. A memorial service and a celebration of Nana's life will be held on Monday, February 25, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at Chapel Lawn, 4000 Portage Avenue. Nana will always be remembered for her smiling Irish eyes. They stole our hearts away. CHAPEL LAWN 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 23, 2008