Obituary of Barbara Mary Fearnhead

Unexpectedly on Saturday, June 24, 2017, Barbara Fearnhead wife of William H. Fearnhead passed at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Born on March 15, 1936 in Saint John, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Agnes (Porter) Galbraith. In addition to her husband, Bill, Barbara is also survived by her daughter, Susan Knolla (Tim); brother, Lawrence Galbraith (Alice); sister, Judith Galbraith; as well as grandchildren, Jacob and Catherine Arisz. Besides her parents, she was also predeceased by her son, Alan J. Fearnhead; brothers, Robert and Brian Galbraith and sister, Patricia Irving. Barb was a graduate of St. Vincent’s Girls School and Mount Carmel Academy. In her youth, she was employed by Traders Finance and after her children were grown she returned to NBCC to obtain a Medical Secretary Certificate, subsequently being employed by a prominent Saint John Neurosurgeon until his retirement in the mid 90s. Being a mother of a child with special needs, Barb was always a strong and tireless advocate for those with disabilities. She was associated with CAMR/CACL, the Cerebral Palsy Association and served many years on the Board of Coil Housing/Independence Plus. Barb also served on the Mayor’s Committee for Integrated Recreation. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Bay View Funeral Home, 1461 Manawagonish Road, West Saint John with visiting on Tuesday, June 27, 2017 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. A private family interment will take place at St. Joseph’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, remembrances made to Independence Plus Incorporated (211 Main Street, Saint John, NB, E2K 1H7) or a charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family.