Barbara Ann Clarke

1948-2026

The family of Barbara Ann Clarke (née Nicholson) announce her passing on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at the Aberdeen Hospital. A native of New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, Barbara grew up in Lower Plymouth with her parents, the late Robert and Joyce Nicholson (née Taylor) and three siblings. She was educated within the Pictou County school system, graduating from East Pictou Rural High School and, subsequently, its Secretarial course.

Barbara married and had one child. She enjoyed a successful career as an Executive Secretary with various businesses throughout Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, namely ATV News and the Coca-Cola Company. Barbara then shifted employment gears, accepting a position with Sobeys as a customer service cashier before retiring to a life of simple pleasures in New Glasgow.

Barbara enjoyed her retirement, living quietly with her cats and spending time with her cherished group of friends. She was known for her kindness, generosity of spirit, thoughtful nature and quick wit.  Barbara had a love of cuisine, décor, gardening, literature, music and dancing.

Barbara is pre-deceased by her parents, her brother Ronald Nicholson, her sister Katherine Nicholson and her grandson Nicholas Brauss.

Barbara is survived by her former husband, F. Allister Clarke and their daughter Mary Allison Clarke, her son-in-law Stephen Murphy and children Jessica Murphy (Travis Roberts) and Johnathan Murphy, her brother Wayne Nicholson (Diane Boutilier) as well as her nieces, nephews and extended family members. She will be fondly remembered by her close and devoted friend Janice Tarum, and many other Marsh Street friends and neighbours.

Sincere gratitude is extended to the physicians and nursing staff of the Intensive Care Unit of the Aberdeen Hospital whose compassion, care and support provided well for Barbara during her illness and in her final days.

In memory of Barbara’s love of and devotion to rescue companion animals, donations in her name would be gratefully accepted to North Nova SPCA.  Continuing her generous spirit even in death, Barbara was an organ and tissue donor.

In keeping with Barbara’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service. Cremation has taken place, under the care of H.W. Angus Funeral Home. Private internment will take place in the Nicholson family plot at Brookside Cemetery, New Glasgow at a later date.

Online condolences may be given at www.angusfuneralhomes.com.