OLIVELLA

It is with sorrow and heartache that the family of Barbara Jean Olivella (Barb), 78 of Lunenburg announce her passing on Sunday, July 21, 2024, suddenly and unexpectedly.

Born in Brandon, MB, to the late Robert Fraser MacIntosh Myers and Joan Margaret (Elliott) Myers, Barb grew up with her two sisters, Joan and Elizabeth and brother Bill. Barb met the love of her life, Barry, while they were students at York University in Toronto, and they married in 1968. Barb went on to teach in Ontario and Quebec, and volunteered as a teacher’s aide in Nova Scotia.

Barb was a force, a matriarch, a “do-er”. If you needed something done, everyone knew to ask Barb. Her laugh was infectious, and she has touched many lives. Behind her go-getter exterior was a person who was generous beyond words, loved fiercely and loyally, and had a way to smooth everything over. Her close circle of friends was “the salty sisters”. Blessed with a beautiful Soprano voice, Barb was a member of several choirs and music groups throughout her life. Her hobbies included travel, community involvement and volunteering, gardening and entertaining at home with white wine and a new recipe. But her favourite pastime was spending time with her family, near and far, at the cottage.

Barb will be forever missed by her husband Barry, her sons, Keith (Julie Zinck), Mark (Scherri Kharusi), her daughter Joan; her grandchildren (Mary, Katie, Holden, Ethan, Harrison, Liam, Ewan, Eilish, Cullen), nephews, nieces and cousins.

Besides Barb's parents, she was predeceased by her beloved grandson, Hilton.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Dana L. Sweeny Funeral Home, 11213 Highway 3, Lunenburg. A memorial service and interment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations made to the QEII Health Sciences Centre Foundation or the Fisherman's Memorial Hospital Auxiliary would be appreciated by the family.