Mrs Nora Margaret Barr

MRS Nora Barr (née Watson) was a much-loved mother and grandmother, who was well known in her local community of Ballynahinch.

The second eldest of a family of ten, born at Claragh Bridge Blacksmith Shop, near Castlewellan, Nora attended Claragh School and enjoyed growing up in the countryside with her sisters and brother.

From an early age Nora was hard working, dependable and loyal, spending time outside of the classroom carrying out household chores for friends and family. 

Serving her time at Gibson’s drapery store in Ballynahinch left Nora with many happy memories. She soon progressed to be the buyer for the business, a role at which she excelled.

It was while working there that she caught the eye of Robert Barr. They were married in September 1965 and set up home at Ballymacarn, overlooking McCauley’s Lake. They had two children, Sandra and David and as a family worked together on the farm.

Nora lived for her family and was always immensely proud of her children and, later, her grandchildren.

Robert’s sudden death in 1984, approaching 33 years ago, affected her greatly but also made her more determined to work hard to keep the farm going.

Robert’s surviving brothers, sisters and extended family circle have remained great friends to Nora over the years.

After Robert’s passing, Nora undertook employment as a nanny, housekeeper and also working in the Millbrook Lodge Hotel and Cafe Rossi until well past retirement age.

She was always held in high regard by her employers and was blessed with looking much younger than her years. When she reluctantly gave up outside employment she channelled all her energy into running her home at Ballymacarn.

Nora enjoyed good health over the years and fought her sudden illness bravely for three months, passing away peacefully on April 9, 2017, with her children by her side.

Magherahamlet Presbyterian Church was always very important to Nora and it was there that she was laid to rest beside her beloved Robert. She will always be lovingly remembered by her son, David, daughter Sandra, son-in-law Leon and grandsons Matthew and Andrew.

Nora’s kind heart and hard work will never be forgotten. Her thoughtfulness and caring nature touched many people over the years. She will be greatly missed.