Barbara Jane Howard (nee Bennett)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Barbara Jane Howard (Bennett) on October 31, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family, at age 85.

Barbara was born on September 6, 1941 in Toronto to Ilene Smith (Bennett) and adopted by her maternal grandparents, Charles and Rose Bennett (Hines) of Huntsville. Barbara was the beloved wife of the late John Gordon Howard and devoted mother to Kathy (Frank) and Brian (Tracy).

Family meant everything to Barb, and she treasured every moment spent with them, whether sharing stories, enjoying laughter, playing games, or simply being together. Barb was an unbelievably proud “Nana”, a title she deeply cherished, to her grandchildren, Brytnie (Adam), Logan, John, Amelia (Jon), and James, as well as her great-grandchildren, Hudson, Sloane, and Dawson. Barb was also a beloved “Aunt Barb”, “B.B.”, “O.B.” and “Nana” to her many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In her quieter moments, Barb enjoyed knitting, doing puzzles, going to bingo, trying her luck at the casino, and playing her favourite games on her tablet. A devoted hockey fan, she proudly cheered on the Toronto Maple Leafs and Canada's World Junior team. But Barb’s favourite people to cheer for were always her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Barb could be found on the sidelines or audience at just about every game, play, recital, concert, ceremony, graduation or extra curricular activity, cheering loud and proud, never missing an opportunity to support them.

Barb will be fondly remembered for her quick wit, signature sass (or bossiness, depending on who you ask), nosiness, smile, endless supply of Kleenex and unwavering love for her family. Barb will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her as well as her “grand dogs”, Rylee, Ghost, Henry, Taco and Frank and “grand kitties”, Charlee, Tessa and Ruggles.

 Barb is predeceased by her sisters, Ilene (Glen), Linda (Luke), Ella, and Marian (Vilko) as well as her brothers Gary, Paul, Cliff (Marg), Ray (Norma) and Bob (Peggy), and Bill (Edna). Barb is survived by her brother, Wayne (Belinda). 

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the compassionate staff at The Pines Long Term Care Home, especially those on Birch Wing, for the kindness, dignity, and loving care they provided throughout her time there. Your support and compassion, especially in her final weeks will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.

In keeping with Barb’s clearly expressed final wishes, no flowers are to be sent or included in her visitation or service. Public visitation will take place at Billingsley Funeral Home on November 8, 2026 from 1-3 p.m., followed by a private graveside service in the spring. In honour of Barb and her love of hockey, guests are encouraged to wear blue, her favourite colour, or proudly sport a Toronto Maple Leafs or Team Canada World Juniors hockey jersey, just as she would have wanted.

In true Barb fashion, her final wish was to have a “Big Party” in her granddaughter Brytnie’s backyard to celebrate her life. She envisioned a gathering of family and friends when the warmer weather returns, filled with laughter, cherished memories, and good company. A celebration that reflects Barb’s spirit and the joy she brought to those around her. Further details regarding this celebration will be shared at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honour Barb’s memory are encouraged to make a donation to The Pines Support Committee.