Barbara Joan Bradley

Barbara Joan Bradley (née Sparrow) passed peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones, on December 11, 2025, in Kamloops, British Columbia, at the age of 78.

Born on September 18, 1947, in Rocky Mountain House, Barb grew up in a home filled with lots of kids, love and care, and chores and prayer. She embraced a rolling-stone spirit from early on, with a steady determination to choose her own path. This free-spirit led her throughout southern Alberta and later onto Vernon where she began a new chapter of her life with her three daughters. In time, she settled in Kamloops, a place that became home. Throughout her journey, she built a life rooted in connection, care, and resilience.

Barb was family-first, always loving and protecting her girls without condition. She lived a colourful life, loving hard and laughing often. Stubborn to a fault, and just as giving, she had a deep instinct to look out for the underdog, which led to her career as a care aide, and a quiet strength that showed most clearly in how she cared for others. She cherished intimate moments, meaningful conversation, prayer, and laughter. Her faith was a steady presence in her life, offering comfort and strength. Above all, she believed in showing up for the people she loved, especially when it mattered most.

Barb was both intelligent and deeply creative and loved reading and working with her hands. She expressed her creativity through art, canning and baking and finding beauty in tending and nurturing plants, both in her gardens and her home. Music was always part of her life, especially The Beatles — and she loved to dance. She approached life with curiosity and a willingness to try almost anything new. Creativity wasn’t just a pastime for Barb; it was how she connected, expressed love, and brought joy to those around her.

Barbara is survived by her daughters, Laura Mae McElroy, Andrea Lynn Connor, and Michelle Leanne Rickard; her grandchildren, Felicia (Zack), Joel (Lisa), and Alex; her great-grandchildren, Huxley, Elodie, and Emerson; her siblings, Sally Marcellus, Jim Sparrow, Dave (Barb) Sparrow, Ron (Kay) Sparrow, and Marg Petty; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

She was predeceased by her parents, Wilfred Aubrey and Sarah Ethel Sparrow; her sister, Carol Sparrow; her brother-in-law, Jack Marcellus; her sister-in-law, Ruth Sparrow; and her son-in-law, Bryan McElroy.

The family wishes to acknowledge Barb’s younger sister Marg, whose steady presence and unwavering care were a source of deep comfort, especially in Barb’s final days when she remained by her side, alongside Barb’s daughters, until her last breath.

An intimate family gathering will be held at a future time.

Barbara will be remembered for her warmth, her loyalty, and her unwavering devotion to family.