Sydney
 
It is with heavy hearts that we the family announce the peaceful passing of Barbara Mattia on Saturday, Dec. 26, 2015 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, An Cala unit, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Whitney Pier, Barbara was the daughter of the late John and Jean (MacKinnon) MacLean.

Barbara worked for 37 years at a law firm in Edmonton, Alberta and after the passing of her husband, Gerry, she returned to her beloved Cape Breton.

Faced with the challenges of Parkinson’s disease, Barbara lived life with humour, faith and dignity.

Barbara is survived by her twin sister, Bev Phillips, Sydney; sister, Claire (David) Jones, Sydney; brothers, Ian (Donna) MacLean, B.C., and Jim (Phyllis) MacLean, Howie Centre; aunts, Rosaire MacKinnon, Harbourview Facility, Sydney Mines, and Johnanna (the late Murdock) MacKinnon, Beaver Cove; stepsons, Gerry Jr., Vincent and Bruce Mattia, all from Alberta; as well as several nieces and nephews, Shannon (Keith Burdon) MacLean, B.C., Shawn (Michelle) MacLean, Ont., Jason (Sasha) MacLean, B.C., Gian (Bobby) MacLean, Sydney, Wayne (Amy Walker) Miller, Sydney, Scott (Lynda) Phillips, Alberta, Steven (Lindsay) Phillips, Alberta, Jennifer (Mark Matheson) MacLean, Alberta, and Kara (David) Kim, Halifax.

Cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2015 at 10 a.m. in Holy Redeemer Church, Whitney Pier, with Fr. Paul Murphy officiating. Interment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery, Sydney Forks, at a later date.

Donations in memory of Barbara may be made to the Holy Redeemer Building Fund or to a charity of one’s choice.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.

Send an online condolence.

     

                              Online Condolences

Bev, I am so sorry to hear about Barbara. Although I haven't seen either of you for a long time, I remember our happy times.
From:  Sandra (Pottle) Bolt

My heartfelt condolences to Bev, Claire, Ian, Jim, and to Barb's extended family. She will be remembered by her friends here in Alberta for her fun loving nature, good humour, gentle soul, and of course those wonderful spaghetti and chili dinners. Although I share your loss I know that feelings of sorrow will soon be replaced with joy as we remember the love and fun times that we shared over the years. With love and best wishes to you all.
From:  John Douglas

To Beverley, Ian, Claire, Jimmie and Families; Very sorry to hear of your loss. God BLESS.
From:  Annie (Snow) Murphy and Brothers


Barb and I began our 4+ decade friendship living together in Edmonton, Alberta in the early 70's. We had great times together and remained friends even though we ended up living at opposite ends of Canada. I treasure my memories; and will miss her. I am glad she is no longer suffering from the bonds of her failing body; and now in the loving arms of our Lord. Thank you Bev, for being there for Barbara all these years; and my condolences to the rest of the family.
From:  Doreen Bobinski

Claire, Jim, Bev, Ian and Families, I was saddened to read of Barbara's passing. Lots of great memories of life on "the hill". My thoughts are with you all at this difficult time. 
From:  Chuck Drohan

I am so sorry on the passing of your sister….Bev, I am thinking of you and the loss that you are feeling right now…please take care. Hugs and prayers going your way.
From:  Brenda LeBlanc

I worked with Barb for many years at Bishop & McKenzie in Edmonton. She was a wonderful person with a great sense of humor, and a pleasure to work with. My condolences to the family.
From:  Gordon McKenzie