Obituary of Barbara Lillian Scott

August 8, 1931 – May 14, 2023

Barbara passed away peacefully in Ottawa on Mother’s Day at the age of 91 in her own bed with family by her side. 

Barb was born in Elk Point, Alberta to Dr. Alexander (Sandy) and Ivy Ross. She is predeceased by her loving husband John Stanley Scott (d.2015), and her siblings Jean, James, twin Donald and Ian. She is survived by her children Janet (Glenn) and David (Robin), grandchildren Martha and Alex, and nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews from coast to coast to coast.

In 1950, Barb left the prairies to make the big move east to Hamilton, Ontario to attend McMaster University. During her time at Mac, Barb earned a B.A. in Humanities and excelled at various aspects of student life. She was on the varsity swim team and served as Head Girl of the student association (1952-53). She also met the love of her life, John, a geology student from nearby Dundas.  Upon graduation, she worked at the YMCA in Brantford, before marrying John in 1956. The couple moved to Illinois where John completed his doctoral studies and settled in Ottawa in 1960. As well as raising two kids, Barb was the founding president of the Ottawa chapter of the Association for Children with Learning Disabilities in 1971 and worked part-time at the Nepean Public Library.

She was known for her unfailing optimism, abundant common sense, and quiet generosity. She found happiness in being grateful and appreciating the simple things in life— qualities that all her family members try to emulate. She and John enjoyed travelling and spending time at their cottage on Pike Lake. In her later years, Barb enjoyed watching Ottawa Senators' hockey games, regardless of the final score.

We would like to thank the caring staff at Park Place Senior Suites and Retirement Residence for their support and kindness to Barb over the years. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charitable organization that supports children in need.