Obituary of Barbara Lynn Derbyshire

Barbara Lynn Derbyshire, 74, of London, Ontario, passed away peacefully on November 27, 2025, after a short but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. She was born on December 29, 1950, and grew up in Port Credit, Ontario.

She was the daughter of Doug Derbyshire and Ruth Derbyshire (née Hewitt), both predeceased. She was also predeceased by her brother Steve (Susan) and her daughter Amanda (Scott).

In the 1970s, Barbara moved to Kirkland Lake, Ontario, where she would live for over 20 years. There, she began her career as a Grade 1 teacher, where her patience, warmth, and creativity left a lasting impact on many young students. After becoming a mother, she dedicated herself to raising her children and became a well-loved piano teacher, sharing her musical talent and fostering a love of the arts in her community.

Never one to shy away from new challenges, Barbara pursued a second career later in life in web design and management—a field in which she thrived, bringing her keen eye for detail, curiosity, and perseverance to a new and unexpected chapter.

For 35 years, she shared a devoted and loving marriage with her husband, Wendall, who remained steadfast by her side through every joy and hardship. She is survived by her brothers Glenn (Carolyn) and Jeff (Dee); her daughters Amy (Kendall) and Ruth (Devon); her cherished grandchildren Gordon, Ruby, and Wesley, who brought endless pride and delight into her life; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Barbara will be remembered for her kindness, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her family. Her gentle spirit, creativity, and capacity for reinvention inspired those who knew her, and her legacy endures in the lives she touched.

A celebration of life is being planned for the spring of 2026, where family and friends will gather to honour Barbara’s memory and share stories of a life lived with love, purpose, and grace.