Obituary of Barbara Heffernan

HEFFERNAN: Barbara Johanna (Leonard) July 8, 1935 - January 31, 2014 Passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her family on Friday January 31, 2014. Barbara Heffernan of Lakefield in her 79th year. Beloved wife of Kevin Heffernan of fifty-eight years. Adored mother of the late Mary Jo (Peter), Betty Ann (Gerard), Kevin (Trudy), Michelle, Patricia and Jeannie. Cherished grandmother of Tommy, Anna, Edward, David, Andrew, Danny, Maggie, Keiven, T.J. and Johanna. Treasured sister of Marianne Sabatino (Joseph) of Peterborough, Betty Lou Fair (late Robert) of St. Catharines and Linda Pearson (late Robert) of Newmarket. Predeceased by her parents Bregetta Johanna (McManus) and Romeo Leonard. Dearly missed by many nieces and nephews. Barbara is remembered as a steadfast partner in family business, an innovator and inspiration in family music and writing endeavours, a committed organist at St. Paul the Apostle Roman Catholic Church in Lakefield for fifteen years, a dedicated member of the Catholic Women's League for forty years, a member and supporter of the Lakefield Historical Society and a strong community advocate for ecumenism and social justice. Through her quiet devotion to kindnesses, which will never be forgotten, Barbara spent a lifetime promoting and celebrating that which brought her greatest joy - the companionship, accomplishments and comforts of family and friends. A source of lasting strength and nourishment, Barbara's Kitchen has been a beacon for all to 'Come As You Are' no matter your race, creed, class or sexual orientation to safely share fears, joy, grief and laughter over a hot cup of coffee. Her quiet, loving and gentle way lives on in the hearts of all those she has touched. Friends and relatives may call at THE HENDREN FUNERAL HOMES, LAKEFIELD CHAPEL, 66 Queen St., Lakefield on Friday February 7, 2014 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Barbara's Life will take place at St. Paul the Apostle Roman Catholic Church in Lakefield on Saturday February 8, 2014 at 11:00 AM. Memorial donations to the Sisters of St. Joseph, the Lakefield Animal Welfare Society or the charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family. Friends may send condolences by contacting the funeral home at www.hendrenfuneralhome.com or by calling 705-652-3355. Barbara received exceptional care and compassion from Dr. Chris Bailey and Staff of the Lakefield Primary Healthcare Centre. Family extends their gratitude to the tremendous care provided by Dr. Stephan Ragaz, the nursing staff of the P.R.H.C. Palliative Care Unit and Nightingale Nursing Staff.