In Loving Memory of John (Jack) Barry

6 March 1928 to 24 September 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John (Jack) Barry who died peacefully in the comfort of family on 24 September, 2024.

Loving husband of Lily (nee Keating) for almost 74 years and cherished father to Sandra (Bill) and Shawn (Lieska). He was grandfather to Matthew (Hyun Ju) and Justin and great-grandfather to Anna. Devoted to his family, he will be forever missed.

Born to Richard and Emma Barry (nee Myers) on March 6, 1928, in Miramichi NB, the eldest of 16 children. Predeceased by brothers: Richard (Junior), Robert and Thomas; and sisters: Betty, Doris and Mary.  He is survived by brothers: Arthur, Ronnie, Joseph, Terry, Greg and Brent; and sisters: Adele, Judy and Linda. Beloved by his siblings and their many spouses and children, as well as by the many members of the Keating family, he was a patriarch within his extended family, enjoying the love and respect of all who shared a family relationship.

Jack was a long-time resident of Miramichi with a deep history of public service to charitable and municipal organizations over many years. He was a town councillor, a member of the board of directors at Hotel Dieu Hospital and of St. Michael’s Parish among others. He was a founding member of the Knights of Columbus chapter 1219 and of the Miramichi Prostate Cancer Support Group and served on many municipal boards in Miramichi as well as on the many military bases where he lived.

Jack was a proud and long serving member of the Canadian military, joining the navy as a young man and completing most of his career in the Air Force. He was a natural leader, achieving the highest non-commissioned rank and was a respected and awarded member of the military family. During his time in the military, he travelled widely and gained an appreciation of people outside of his own community which he valued and which, in turn, manifested in his support for the disadvantaged and disenfranchised within his own community.

He was a dedicated and active member of the Catholic Church. Faithful and devout, he enjoyed the blessings of his religious community and he returned those blessings in countless good works, many of them quietly undertaken knowing these were the right things to do.

Jack enjoyed hosting his many friends and family in his home, engaging in friendly and often humorous discussions of his childhood on the “Hill”, his Irish heritage and family genealogy including his Acadian roots on his mother’s side, his escapades in the navy and his observant and insightful commentary on political and social life. He was a gifted story teller and at times, wickedly funny. Jack will be missed by many for his generosity and his caring nature and above all, for the example he set in life. His memory will live on the hearts of the very many who had the pleasure of knowing him and calling him family, friend or colleague.

The family would like to thank those who provided care in the last year of his life; the staff at Miramichi Regional Hospital, at Losier Hall and at Percy’s Place. Much appreciation for the care and concern shown by Dr. Gerard Losier over many years and from Dr. Arthur Losier.

Visitation occurred at Adams Funeral Home, 140 King St., Miramichi on Sunday, September 29, 2024, from 2-4 PM, and  6-8 PM.  A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Michael’s Basilica, 10 Howard St., Miramichi, on Monday, September 30, 2024, at 11 AM with The Reverend Father John Beaumaster as Celebrant, and The Revered Father Leon Creamer, and The Reverend Daniel Bastarache as Concelebrants. Music for the service was provided by David Bunnell, and the St. Michael's Choir.  The Entrance Hymn was "Here I am Lord", followed by hymns:  "Rest in God Alone", "The Old Rugged Cross", "Prayers of Saint Francis", and "Songs of the Angels". The Recessional Hymn was "We Shall Go Out".  The Altar Server was Aiden Barry.  The First Scripture Reading was by niece, Joni Cormier. The Second Scripture Reading was by Geraldine Donahue.  Prayers of the Faithful were proclaimed by Mary Lou Barry.  Interment was in St. Michael's Cemetery. The Honorary Pallbearers included brothers:  Arthur, Joe, Ronnie, Terry, Greg, and Brent, as well as son-in-law, Bill Hicks; brothers-in-law:  Jerry Donahue, Tom McGrath, Bob Duffy, and Bernard Keating; as well as nephew, Ricky Barry.  The Active Pallbearers were grandsons:  Matthew Barry, and Justin Barry; and nephews: Mark Barry, Adam Barry, Cornelius Kingston, Barry Wright, David Keating, and Gary Keating. A reception took place in the St. Michael's Parish Church Hall following the interment.

As expressions of sympathy, donations in Jack’s memory may be made to Percy’s Place or St. Michael’s Parish would be appreciated by the family.

Arrangements were entrusted to Adams Funeral Home Ltd., 140 King St., Miramichi, NB; telephone (506) 773-3492.  Additionally, messages of condolence may be shared online at www.adamsfh.ca

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Est. 1956