Obituaries

BOWEN, Barbara Adelia. Nee (Lawrence). Passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, at North Wood Care Centre (Halifax, NS) at 88.

Barbara was born in April of 1937, in New Glasgow. She was predeceased by her mother Helen Lawrence and her father Thompson Dorrington. Sisters Grace Hilley, Althea Gil, and Yevette Maxwell. Also, by two grandchildren, Allison & Kevin and two great-grandchildren, Gabriella & Tristan. She is lovingly remembered by her six children, Deborah [Clifford] Perkins (Halifax), Umar Akbar (Halifax), Carol Dorrington (Montreal), Dora [Robert] Cooper (Calgary), Eric Bowen (Halifax) & Douglas Bowen (Saskatchewan). Also survived by her grandchildren Jason, David, Kimberly, Dara, Adrianna, Alisha, Yasmin, Jessica & Jonathan; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Barbara was an accomplished businesswoman. After becoming a Master Hairdresser, she went on to open her own business, BB’s Hair Salon. Which became a staple in the black community. She was a founding member of the Black Hairdressers Association of Nova Scotia, where she taught. Having been awarded recognition for her contributions to the black community from the City of Halifax, the Province of Nova Scotia, & the Federal Government of Canada, her name was read in the House of Commons.

She also received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Black Beauty Culture Association. Barbara was also one of the first African Nova Scotian to be on the board of The Cosmetology Association of Nova Scotia. Barbara loved writing poetry and was an avid reader. She loved all genres of music, especially Gospel and R&B. She was also an exceptionally good cook and enjoyed entertaining with family and friends.

Barbara was a devoted Christian and a faithful servant of our Lord. She often referred to this verse. “For we walk by faith, not by sight” Corinthians 5:7

The family would like to thank the staff on the 3rd. Floor of Northwood Care Center for their care and compassion our mother has received over the years. Special Thank you to R.N. Erin Ryan for her kindness.

As per Barbara’s wishes, there will be no formal service. A private Celebration of Life will be held at later date.