Barbara Jean Williams (née Kring) passed away peacefully in Toronto on May 23, 2025, at the age of 90.

Born and raised in Toronto, her parents were Patricia née Hartnett & Herb Kring, She is survived by her beloved sister Judy Weihe (Ted), Sarasota FL. She was predeceased by her brothers, John and Jim.

In 1954, Barbara married Frank Williams. They shared 51 years of marriage until his death in 2005, and remained each other’s greatest source of laughter, partnership, and love throughout.

She was the devoted mother of Patricia Lamarche of Peterborough, Karen Graham of Sonoma, CA, Jim Williams of Brampton and Andrew Williams of Toronto, and a loving mother-in-law to her son-in-law, Dorion Lamarche. She was also a proud and loving grandmother to Samantha and Aaron Graham (New York, NY), Michael Williams (London, UK), Thomas Williams and Michelle Burwash (Edmonton, AB), and Andrew Williams (Brampton, ON).

Barbara worked in Human Resources at McDonnell Douglas from 1971 - 1984. She helped many people—especially within her own community—access meaningful job opportunities that changed their lives.

After many years in Toronto, Barbara and Frank retired to his hometown of Perth, ON. Following his passing, she eventually returned to Toronto to be closer to her sons.

She received excellent care during the last year of her life at Malton Village.

She had a notable warmth and curiosity that gave her a natural ability to connect with others, forming lasting friendships throughout her life. She met change with quiet resilience, optimism, and humility. She was an avid reader, a skilled and generous baker known for her pies, date squares, and butter tarts, and later in life, a devoted Blue Jays fan who rarely missed a game.

Above all, she cherished her family, whom she loved deeply and wholeheartedly, and who loved her just as much. She will be deeply missed by all.

A funeral service will be held at Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor Street West, on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at 3pm, visitation from 2-3pm. In memory of Barbara, please consider donating to the CDN Heart & Stroke Foundation or sharing your fondest memories of Barbara.