Barbara Stillar

Barbara L. Stillar

October 25, 1944 – June 9, 2025

Barbara “Barb” L. Stillar died peacefully on June 9, 2025, in Huntsville, Ontario. Born in Bracebridge, Barb lived life on her own terms—for 80 spirited years—marked by wit, sarcasm, and unwavering devotion to her family and community.  

Our gratitude is beyond words to those who cared for Barb in her final months. Special thanks to Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare, the Huntsville Palliative Care team (Dr. Deb Harrold and the nursing staff), Muskoka Traditions, and Closing the Gap. And to Dad who took on the role of primary caregiver—we are forever grateful.

Barb began her career as a hairdresser in the golden age of beehives and rollers. After starting a family, she poured her energy into raising her daughters and uplifting her community. From baking for school functions to rallying volunteers, Barb was never still—and always involved.

She was a central force behind countless events: Christmas plays, trick-or-treating, turkey dinners, hot dog days, school trips, skating competitions, hockey tournaments and more. She supported the Stephenson Lions Club, the Port Sydney Parks and Recreation Committee, and anyone who needed a helping hand or a phone call of encouragement.

Barb is lovingly remembered by her husband of 57 years, Stanley; daughters Leslie (Jeff) Secord and Reagan (Darrin) Gray; and grandchildren Nathan, Rhianna, and Corbin. She leaves behind a wide circle of family, friends, and fellow volunteers who will miss her dearly. Predeceased by her parents Bob and Sadie Jeffries of Bracebridge and three of her six siblings; Jack (Rosemary) of Huntsville, Bob (Muriel) of New Brunswick, Mary of Eastern Ontario. She is survived by her sister Anne (Ted) Myers of North Bay and her brother Jim (Pat) Jeffries of Bracebridge.

A Celebration of Life was held at the family home in Port Sydney on Sunday, July 13, 2025, from 2 – 4 pm.  If you wish, in lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in Barb’s name to Huntsville Hospice, Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare, the Stephenson Lions Club, or Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Foundation.

Barb would want you to hold your loved ones close, lend a hand where you can, and never underestimate the power of a phone call—and a perfectly timed sarcastic remark.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara Stillar, please visit our floral store.