In Memory of

Barbara

Elva

Harvey

(Foster)

Obituary for Barbara Elva Harvey (Foster)

Barb was born on the rugged coast of New Brunswick on March 30, 1960 to Merlin and Bessie Foster. Growing up near St. Andrews, she came to know Jesus as a teenager--a faith she would treasure for the rest of her life. As a young adult, Barb studied at Bible school, first in Moncton and later, Toronto. While in Ontario, Barb met a young man named Roy Harvey, who was in need of a typist for hire. What began as a job turned into a first date and in 1985, a loving marriage that spanned 35 years.

Over the next six years, Roy and Barb welcomed three children to their family: Michael, Joy, and Paul. Barb saw family life as her calling. She delighted in her kids, who treasure memories of Barb’s uncanny ability to do little things with great love. From birthday breakfasts in bed to back scratches in the church pew, Barb cherished caring for her family through the simple, ordinary things of life--a practice that compiled into a lifetime of lavish thoughtfulness.

Besides her dedication to family, Barb loved making things beautiful through scrapbooking, card making, and gardening, to name a few. Her garden in full bloom was an oasis to family and friends. But Barb’s first love was her grandchildren. Over the last six years, Barb became “Nana” to six beloved grandbabies, all of whom brought her great joy. Visits from Nana were often accompanied by treasures she brought to put a smile on the faces of her grandkids. Barb’s gifts are a lasting reminder of her love for her little ones.

When Barb was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in June 2018, it was love for her family that carried her through two and a half devastating years of treatment. Barb fought courageously and we are deeply grateful for the extra time we had to treasure her: beloved wife, mother, grandmother, mentor, and friend. On January 31, 2021, Barb went to be with Jesus. Amidst the heartache, we cling to the hope that Barb has been made whole in Christ. One day, we will hold her in our arms again.

Barb is survived by her husband, Roy; by her children: Michael Harvey (Janelle), Joy Reynolds (Eric), and Paul Harvey (Kara); by her six grandchildren: Adalee, Belle, Kaleb, Kairo, Wells, and Noah; and by her brothers: Dennis Foster (Sandra) and David Foster (Marg).

In lieu of donations, Barb asked that you plant a tree or flower in her memory. Like a seed, Barb’s life was marked by small acts of generosity that grew to bring beauty to the lives of those around her. The greatest honour to her legacy is that you would do the same.

A Memorial Service was held for Barb on Sunday February 14, 2021. Click to view the Service Recording.

To view and share photos, condolences and stories of Barbara please visit www.choicememorial.com. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Choice Memorial Cremation & Funeral Services (403) 277-7343.