Barbara Anne McNeil

Barbara Anne McNeil (née Reid), born in 1952 in Glasgow, Scotland, passed away in May 2026. She was the beloved daughter of Robert Strathdee Reid and Elizabeth Manson Lillie.

Barbara spent her early years in Scotland, where she developed a lifelong love of nature, hiking, and the seaside. She especially cherished adventures with her brother David. A spirited and athletic young woman, Barbara played field hockey and competed in hurdling, often describing herself as a “tomboy” at heart.

At just 17 years old, Barbara immigrated to Vancouver, Canada, alongside her parents and brother David, beginning a new chapter marked by courage, resilience, and determination. After early administrative roles, she built a career in the accounting profession and later managed a small business. Throughout her life, Barbara was known for her strong work ethic and commitment.

As a single mother, Barbara devoted herself wholeheartedly to raising her daughter Jennifer. She was always present for Jennifer’s academic and extracurricular activities and was her loudest cheerleader. When Jennifer married, Barbara embraced her husband Darren as her own son, welcoming him into the family with love. Barbara’s nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family: she lovingly cared for her brother David through his terminal illness and later cared for her mother during her battle with Alzheimer’s disease, despite facing physical health challenges of her own.

Barbara found joy in life’s simple and creative pleasures. She enjoyed crafting, sewing, cooking and baking, gardening, reading and writing, playing cards, and jigsaw puzzles. Christmas was her favourite holiday. She also found comfort and inspiration in Celtic and classical music, and time spent in nature. She was an animal lover and cared for a variety of pets over the years, including a cat, bird, and dog when she was younger, and her dogs Kaeleb, Josh, Cassie, and Kimmie later in life.

Barbara showed remarkable bravery and determination by starting a new chapter for herself in her late 60s. She built a wonderful circle of friends and embraced new adventures, including aquacise classes despite her long-time fear of being in the water. She especially enjoyed spending time with her family, including her fellow mom-in-law, Maria Bertrand.

Barbara is survived by her daughter Jennifer Bertrand; her son-in-law Darren Bertrand; and her cherished “fur grandbabies.”

Barbara’s final words beautifully reflect the heart with which she lived her life: “There’s never enough time, so take the time.” She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.