MATTHEWS: Barbara (Harris) of Lucan, formerly of Delaware

Passed away peacefully at South Huron Hospital with family by her side on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at the age of 84. Beloved wife of the late George Matthews (2000). Treasured mom of Terry Ferguson, Jeff and Tab Matthews, Janet and Andre Waack, and Tina and Brian Roe. Proud Nana of Nathan (Kelsi), Lindsey (Jason); Jorja; Christopher (Yvonne), Curtis (Makenna); Colin (Blair), Jacob, and Julia. Whether in her arms or in her heart, her love reached all her great grandchildren; Isla, Spencer, Colby, Blaire, Evelyn, Hallie, and Saylor and she found joy in every story shared with her about them.  Dear sister and sister-in-law of Len and Pat Harris, and Laura Harris. Fondly remembered by her loving niece Brandie. Predeceased by her parents Earl and Edna Harris and her brothers; Gordie, Tom, Art, Alley, and Rob.

With profound love and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of our Mom, a remarkable woman whose life was defined by unconditional love, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to her family.

There will never be another so full of love as Mom and Nana, who cherished her grandchildren and great‑grandchildren with her whole heart. She carried a quiet confidence and a steady, guiding hand, and if you were fortunate enough to be touched by it, she helped you find clarity in your thoughts and the courage to pursue your dreams. Her love and support never wavered, and the lessons she shared will be treasured forever.

Mom was fiercely committed to what she believed in: family, life, love, and happiness. If anything, or anyone stood in the way of living fully and authentically, she was never afraid to speak up. Equally powerful, however, was her ability to forgive, let go, and move forward while always protecting what mattered most. That rare balance of strength and grace was one of her greatest gifts.

Life handed Mom more than her share of trials and tribulations, yet she never complained. Instead, she focused on restoring peace after each challenge. Even in hardship, she chose calm, healing, and hope, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and quiet courage.

She faced leukemia in 2019 and lymphoma in 2025 with remarkable strength and grace. Through it all, she remained a guiding light, someone who helped others unconditionally and never asked for anything in return. She taught us that healing and growth are not only about what we endure, but about honest self‑reflection: acknowledging mistakes, taking responsibility, fixing what we can, and moving forward.

Mom often reminded those she loved that no one is perfect and never expected perfection from anyone. She encouraged accountability without excuses, the courage to stand up for oneself, and the trust that those who truly love and understand you will stand beside you.

How do you describe a love like hers in a single paragraph? It simply isn’t possible. No words can fully honour all that she gave of herself to her family throughout her life. For all she gave her love, her guidance, her unwavering support she was the greatest human we have ever known, and likely ever will know. She showed us what love, honour, integrity, kindness, selflessness, commitment, courage, and strength truly mean.

Every good quality we carry exists because of how she raised us and how she modelled these values throughout our lives. Her acceptance of people for who they are, her wit, and her unwavering commitment to family shaped us all. Family always came first. Her children and grandchildren always before herself.

Our beautiful Mom… the pride we feel knowing you were ours, and that you are still ours even though you are no longer physically here, is immeasurable. We will honour your memory by sharing your stories, looking at your pictures, and celebrating you and the beautiful life you lived. You are, and have always been, our hero.

Mom is now reunited with our Dad. In a poem she wrote for him, displayed on a plaque beside a tree planted in his memory, she wrote that they would be “together again, forever again.” This brings great comfort to those she leaves behind.

She will be deeply missed by her children, grandchildren, great‑grandchildren, extended family, and all who were blessed to know and love her. Her love, strength, and wisdom will live on through each of us.

Throughout our Moms life, she found joy in time spent with family, listening to music, dancing, singing, doing puzzles, playing cards, watching tennis, gardening and painting. She lived life on her own terms, in her own time, and that is exactly how she will be remembered.

Rest in peace, Mom. Our lives will never be the same without you, but we will carry you with us always.

Keeping with Barb’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private family graveside will be held at Strathroy Cemetery at a later date.

Donations to LHSF – Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre would be appreciated by the family.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Howson-Jan and Dr. To, and the staff from the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre, the long-time staff at CDS Pharmacy in Ailsa Craig, along with those who showed compassion, care and support to Barb and her family during her time at South Huron Hospital.