Barbara Ann McCarthy

Born June 26, 1938 to Eva and Kenneth Martin, Barbara grew up on Salisbury Road in Moncton, New Brunswick. Affectionately known as “Bubbles” during her years at Moncton High School, Barbara went on to graduate from Oulton Business College before going to work as a bookkeeper in her family’s business, Star Electric. While attending Oulton, Barbara met and later married the love of her life, Clayton, a Korean War veteran, with whom she went on to establish Alcorn Manor Senior’s Home in Moncton.

In addition to operating The Manor with her husband, and raising her two children, Barbara served as a member of the Moncton Hospital Board for several years. When Clayton passed away prematurely in 1986, Barb sold the business, but continued in her role there, maintaining the company’s accounting records.

Once her children were grown, Barbara moved to Halifax and began working at The Ramada Hotel in Dartmouth. She later became the Residential Manager for The Armour Group Limited, a role in which she excelled at, until her later than usual retirement. The move to Halifax gave her the opportunity to be closer to her son, Mike and his family; sister, Joanne, and her extended family; and develop many enduring friendships.

Barb’s dedication to her profession was only exceeded by her commitment to her family. Barb loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, of whom she was so very proud. She attended their many recitals and sporting events, prepared countless suppers for family gatherings in Moncton and Halifax, and enjoyed taking her family out for restaurant meals. Fun loving, and always up for an adventure, Barb had the opportunity to travel, making numerous friends on road trips to Florida, cruises and tours to Europe, Alaska and Panama, and trips to Western Canada. Barb also took great pleasure in helping family and friends, and volunteering at the QEII Halifax Infirmary. On Tuesdays, Barb would often make her way to Edna’s, where she was treated like family.

Barbara was predeceased by her parents, Eva and Kenneth Martin; her beloved husband, Clayton McCarthy; brothers, George (Shirley) and Donald (Donna). She is survived by her children, Michael (Arlene), and Beverly MacDiarmid; sister, Joanne McCrea (Ben); grandchildren, Courtney (Michael) Pyne, Brittney McCarthy; Dayton, Shayna, Garret, Connor (Hannah) and Carrigan MacDiarmid; great-grandchildren Liam and Skylar Pyne, and Charlotte MacDiarmid; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, their children, and many dear friends.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to nurses Alexa and Taylor on 8.3 at the QEII Halifax Infirmary, who provided such compassionate care in her final days. In addition, the family would like to thank Donna at Parkwood Home Care for her committed assistance and companionship.

As per her wishes, cremation has taken place. A private family gathering and burial in Moncton will follow at a later date.