Barbara Marie Quinlan (née Davis)

Barbara Marie Quinlan (née Davis)

February 5, 1950 – November 10, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara Marie Quinlan, who left us too soon on November 10, 2025, at the age of 75. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, and raised in Brantford, she was the beloved daughter of the late Alfred and Dorothy Davis (née Burns).

She is survived by her devoted husband, David; her children, AJ Merrick (Dave) and Siobhan Quinlan (Shannon); and her granddaughter, D.J.

Barbara earned her Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from the University of Toronto and a Master's of Library Science from Western University. It was at the University of Toronto that she met her husband, David. Many of her lifelong friendships were formed during her University years.

Barbara dedicated much of her career to the Brantford, Scarborough, Toronto, and Mississauga public library systems. Later in life, she successfully ran several small businesses. She will be dearly missed by all her colleagues and her small but close circle of friends.

Barbara will be remembered for her wry humour, sharp wit, funky fashion, and her love of all things fuchsia. She was an avid gardener who intuitively knew how to make things grow. A chef extraordinaire, she delighted in cooking for her family and friends. She loved a good murder mystery and, of course, each of her beloved cats. She was supportive and provided encouragement in everything her children set out to do. She was our anchor and will be truly missed.

In lieu of a memorial, our family asks that you honour Barbara's memory by planting something beautiful in your garden.

As a lifelong advocate for animal and human rights, please consider a donation to your local humane society or the Mississauga Food Bank.

Click here to make a donation to Mississauga Food Bank