Obituary of Barbara Joyce Brass

With very heavy hearts we must announce to family and friends the sudden passing of Barbara Brass at the age of 91 on December 13, 2022. Beloved wife of William (Bill) Brass (Deceased), loving mother of Bernice, Robert (Bob), Randy (son-in-law), warm hearted and caring grandma to Rebecca and Jessica.

Barbara grew up in Toronto’s west end, surrounded by the love of her parents, Sydney and Ida, and brother Charles Frederick (Fred) (deceased). She was raised in a home with strong beliefs in God, which she carried with her throughout her life. As a teenager she volunteered at Sunnybrook Hospital as a candy striper. She also taught Sunday School at Hillcrest Christian Church.

Barbara and Bill met through friends, and married years later on Valentine’s Day February 14, 1959. They bought a house in the east end, where they raised their family, and Barbara resided with her son throughout her life. Barbara and Bill only had 23 years of marriage together, before Bill was taken to be with the Lord, but there was enough love to last a lifetime between them.

We had a great childhood, with loving and attentive parents. We attended church regularly and joined church groups. Mom would sew clothes not only for herself, but for us and the dolls. She did beautiful smocking on dresses and embroidery work. She would knit amazing things for us, and eventually beautiful afghans and sweaters for her granddaughters. At Christmas she would cut baked gingerbread into shapes to construct a gingerbread house, and so many cookie containers full of homemade fruitcakes, cookies, bars, and of course dad’s favourite rum balls.

When Bill passed, Barbara went back to work full-time. She was able to return in a secretarial position with a typing speed and the efficiency as if she had never left to raise her family. Barbara joined the secretarial association, enjoyed her time at the cottage, going to the ballet, and opera. She held jobs at Pilot Insurance, Imperial Life Insurance, and CIBC Headquarters.

In later years Barbara continued to attend church, and when she was too old, every Sunday morning she would watch services on the TV. She continued to enjoy going to the cottage, gardening, knitting, and feeding the birds. She was faithful keeping in touch with friends and extended family, and spending time with her immediate family. She was the glue that kept everyone up to speed on the latest happenings.

Barbara, Mom, Grandma, Aunt, and Friend, you will always be remembered for your love, care and devotion to your family and friends. The thoughtfulness you shared with all of us and the charities you faithfully supported over the years. We love you and thank you for a lifetime of love.

A graveside service will be held at Park Lawn Cemetery, 2845 Bloor Street, Toronto, Ontario.

Donations can be made in Barbara’s memory to one of her favourite charities: The Toronto Humane Society, Make-a-Wish Canada, or the CNIB for the seeing eye dogs.

Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.

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