In Celebration of

Barbara Francis Edith Whitworth (née Sparrow)

September 30, 1932 -  December 10, 2025

Barbara Francis Edith Whitworth (née Sparrow) passed away peacefully with her family by her side at Toronto General Hospital on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at the age of 93. Predeceased by her loving husband of 36 years, Neil.

Beloved mother of Linda Jankowski (Alex), Alan Barolet (Jennifer), Sandra (Lynn) and Daniel and family. Proud and cherished grandmother of Robert (Claire), Lauren (Brent), Lindsay (Alex), Andrew (Maya), and Aidan (Sarah), and great-grandmother of Harrison. Predeceased by her brother Kenneth Sparrow. Missed by her longtime companion Bill Mertens.

After growing up in Toronto, Barbara spent many years living in both Montreal and Toronto. She was a loving and kind-hearted person who will be remembered for her dedication to her friends, taking special delight in the lives of her children, grandchildren and their families. She will be dearly missed in all of our lives.

Friends may call at the Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor St W., Toronto (between Jane St. and Runnymede Rd.) on Tuesday, January 13, 2025, from 10:00 a.m., until the time of the Memorial Service in the Chapel at 11:00 a.m.

At the family's request, donations in Barbara’s memory may be made to Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto General Hospital, or the charity of your choice.

Guestbook 

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Donna Kehler nee Greene (Frien of the family)

Entered January 9, 2026 from Alberta hi

My deepest condolences on the loss of your loved one Barbara.

Bjug Borgundvaag (Friend)

Entered January 9, 2026 from Toronto

Barb was such a lovely person. I will never forget the extraordinary kindness she showed me at a challenging time in my youth. She was so full of life and happiness, and always interested to know the details of what was happening in my life every time we met. A remarkable person who will be missed. RIP Barbara.

Kathleen Gignac (daughter of Bill Mertens)

Entered January 9, 2026 from Midland, Ontario

Barb was such a wonderful lovely lady. An awesome friend to my Dad Bill. She brought Joy Smiles Laughter great desserts and Love to our family. Barb has gone too soon and will be missed greatly from her family and friends. It has been an honour to have known her and she is truly missed. Love to her family and welcoming Dad to your family. Barb will live on in our hearts. Blessings Kathleen and Roger

Jackie Rae (Honorary Niece)

Entered January 10, 2026 from Brampton Ontario

Aunty Barb was my moms best friend and an Aunt to me all my life. She was one of a kind, a fabolous person and a big part of my life. I have so many fond memories of growing up and all the times our famlies spent together. I always looked forward to any time we could visit. She is missed and will forever be remembered.

Carol aschwanden (Family)

Entered January 10, 2026 from Thornbury

Barb was always such a good sport and lots of fun as well as being a very stylish lady. RIP Barb.
Carol and John Aschwanden

Photos 

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