Mrs. Barbara Evelyn Reardon

It is with deep sadness that the family of Barbara Reardon announces her death on October 22, 2008, in the Halifax Infirmary, QEII. A mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she was an inspiration to her family and everyone she met during her life. Born in Glace Bay on December 8, 1916, she was the daughter of Joseph and Florence (Kinley) McArel. Barbara was educated in Glace Bay, Sydney, and at Margaret Eaton in Toronto. Upon graduation, she taught physical education at Havergal College in Toronto, Crofton House, Vancouver and Halifax Ladies College and maintained contact with many of her former students. During the war, Barbara met and married Henry Reardon who was serving with the Halifax Rifles. Henry went on to become a well known Halifax family doctor. With Barbara's love, support, and tireless devotion to her family, they became a dynamic team involved in politics and the running of a farm operation and golf course in Annapolis Royal. Barbara was proud of her involvement as a member of Nova Scotia's first committee to promote tourism. She was active in her church and community wherever she lived, including Halifax, Annapolis Royal, Bermuda and Sarasota, Fla. She liked nothing better than to be surrounded by her family and their friends. She took a great interest in their activities and easily related to all generations, both young and old. Barbara graciously welcomed people into her home and the warmth of her hospitality was appreciated by all who knew her. She remained interested in the affairs of the world, her country, her province and her community. Barbara was a very resilient woman who faced each challenge thrown her way and effectively adapted to every change in her life's circumstances. Her advise was sought by family and friends. A long-time breast cancer survivor, she provided many women support, encouragement, and strength to help them fight the disease. A woman of many interests, she loved animals, golfed well into her 80s, knit many a sweater, continued to improve her excellent bridge capabilities, and retained links with her beloved Cape Breton. To the end, she maintained her joie de vivre, clarity of thought, immense charm and great beauty. She was predeceased by her husband, Henry, and infant son, Robert Cecil. She is survived by children, Barbara (Warren Smith), David (Carol Snider), Michael (Jane), and Patricia (Brenton Wear); grandchildren, Laura (David Keefe), John and Marc Reardon, and Alexander and Jeremy Snider; great-grandchildren, Ella, Henry and Darcy Keefe; brothers-in-law, Charles and Kenneth Reardon, and sister-in-law, Joyce. Barbara will be sadly missed and forever remembered. Visitation will be Sunday, October 26 from 4-7 p.m. in J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 2666 Windsor St., Halifax. A celebration of Barbara's life will be held in Presbyterian Church of St. David, Brunswick Street, Halifax, 2 p.m., Monday, October 27. Family flowers only. Charities dear to Barbara's heart were Bide Awhile Animal Shelter (12 Eaton Ave., Dartmouth) and The Salvation Army. Condolences to: [email protected]. Also visit www.MeM.com