Passed away suddenly and peacefully, surrounded by family at Brightshores Health System – Owen Sound on Saturday, March 8, 2025. Born in Guelph on March 6, 1940, Barbara Ann Newstead (nee Noble, formerly Tolton) of Owen Sound, was in her 86th year.
Beloved wife of the late Jim Newstead. Loving mother of Bev Leighton of Kitchener, Paul Tolton of Guelph, Donna Heath (Dave) of Meaford, Tim Tolton (Donna)of Guelph, and Melinda Smith (Bill) of Owen Sound. Cherished grandma of Scott, Kendra, Nicole, Spencer, Jason, Todd, Jacob, Joshua, Sarah, Bobby, David, Caitlin and Michelle. Proud great grandma of 21 great grandchildren. Dear sister of Carol Kukor (Tony) of Denfield, Eileen Mary VanRuyven (Harry) of St. Catherines, and sister in law of Cheri Noble of Hawaii. Ann will also be missed by her other in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends.
Predeceased by her former husband Cecil Tolton, granddaughter Jennifer Leighton, parents Jack and Eileen Noble, and by her siblings Linda Noble-Lewis and Jack Noble.
Ann had many interests. She enjoyed quilting blankets for her great-grandchildren, bowling and coaching the special Olympics bowling team. Ann was famous for jumping behind the wheel of stock cars while participating in Women on Wheels, where she was known as “Hot Rod Granny”. Ann’s greatest pleasure, though, was spending time with her family.
In keeping with Ann’s wishes, cremation is taking place and a private memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to Brian E. Wood Funeral Home, Owen Sound, 519-376-7492.
As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations to Special Olympics Ontario or The War Amps would be appreciated. Online condolences can be sent to Ann’s family by visiting her memorial at www.woodfuneralhome.ca.