WILCOCK, Barbara Wilcock

With great love and gratitude for her long life, we announce the passing of Barbara Wilcock on November 11, 2025, at the age of 90.

Barbara was born in July of 1935 to Arthur and Winfred Stratford. Her father managed the public busses in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, while her mother looked after hearth and home. Barbara was the middle child of 5, with siblings Christine and Brenda, Brian and Kevin. Barbara loved music and loved to dance. She even toured as a dancer when she was a young girl.

After high school, Barbara trained in Early Childhood Education and became a teacher for pre-school children. She worked in public education her whole career, until her retirement – almost 40 years later. She loved children and had a profound impact on generations of children in their formative years.

It was “In the Bath” (or the Bath Pub, really) in Dewsbury where she met her life partner – Malcolm Wilcock. Malcolm had returned from serving overseas with the British Army in South Korea and was a professional driver – obtaining the equivalent to a Class 1 license. Barbara and Malcolm became inseparable, and the two were married in 1958.

Barbara and Malcolm had one son – Michael. Later, the family would grow with the addition of daughter-in-law Margot.

Barbara and Malcolm loved to escape urban life and spent time away at their caravan in the country. That was their place – quiet and relaxation. Barbara and Malcolm would later take annual visits to Canada to visit son Michael, once he had ventured out into the world. Barbara and Malcolm were very proud and supportive parents!

Once they had both retired, Barbara and Malcolm decided to immigrate to Canada, following their son. They first came to Vancouver, then spent time in Ucluelet before settling in James Bay, Victoria. Both Barbara and Malcolm were proud to become Canadian citizens!

Wherever they were, Barbara and Malcolm were happy to host friends and family from near or far – extending their gift for hospitality. As a couple, Barbara and Malcolm were devoted to each other and did everything together.

After a debilitating stroke, Barbara looked after Malcolm for almost 10 years until he passed away from cancer in July of 2021. After his passing, life continued to bring challenges, as Barbara faced her own health challenges along with the loss of her soul mate.

With declining health, Barbara came to stay at Mount St. Mary’s care home in January of 2024, after a two year stay at Amica care home in James Bay.

To the end, Barbara was filled with love and would freely express that to all she met!

She will be greatly missed by all who knew her and loved her.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com