Barbara Bays passed away on April 28, 2026, at the age of 101, at the Grace Manor in Ottawa. She is survived by her daughters, Diane (Tom) and Eileen (Warren), five grandchildren (Hilary Busing, Eleanor Busing, Gregory Coutts, Evelyn Coutts, and Geoffrey Coutts), and seven great-grandchildren. Barbara grew up in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, during the Depression and World War II. Following her graduation from the University of Saskatchewan in 1947, she married Neil Bays, whose career took them across Canada. With each move, she created a loving home for her family. She was a talented seamstress and became an expert quilter, winning awards and teaching. 

Her family is grateful for the love, care, and support from the staff and families of Gladstone House, Grace Manor over the past two years, and for the care and companionship provided by Helen Odele and Abby Hashi. 

A memorial service will be held at All Saints Anglican Church, 347 Richmond Road, Westboro, at 10:30 am on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. 

Memorial donations may be given to Médecins sans Frontières or Matthew House Ottawa.