Dr. Barry Martin
September 12, 1936 – November 25, 2018
Dr. Barry Martin, MB. Bch. FRCPC, nee Peter Mary Finnbarr Martin (September 12, 1936 – November 25, 2018) Passed away peacefully in the loving presence of family. Leaving to mourn his soul-mate and wife of 54 years, Lois Julia (Mills) who lovingly nursed and cared for him through his illness; children, Ann (Jack Harris), Peter (Natacha) and Pheilm (Sofia Ferrari); and younger sister, Dolores Skelly (Roanoke, Virginia), his childhood best friend. Brothers-in-law, Neville Mills (Judy), Tom Skelly and Seamus McCarthy (Dublin); grandchildren Amelia, Sarah and John; Finnbarr, Chesley and Julian; and Wiljo, Oula and Satya; his nieces and nephews, his little dog Pippy, and a wide circle of family and friends.
Barry was born in Kilnaleck, Co. Cavan and raised in the beautiful country that was rural Ireland. He was the cherished son of school teachers Peter and Annie (nee Coyle), and dear younger brother to Eithne, Ita, Dympna, Carmel and Gabrielle, all now deceased. Studied at St. Patrick’s College, Cavan, and University College Dublin (Medicine). He came to Newfoundland in 1962 to practice medicine, where he soon met Lois, the love of his life. Together they had a full and happy life, in Calvert on the Southern Shore, at the legendary 744 Water St., and Carbonear where Barry served as Head of the Radiology Department for 35 years. Barry was a compassionate and dedicated doctor, beloved by patients and staff alike. On his retirement in 2012, he was designated Honorary Medical Staff of the Carbonear General Hospital.
Barry was a generous supporter and patron of the arts, involved in the revival movement of traditional music and culture in Newfoundland through the 70’s and 80’s. He opened his home to many a visiting musician from Ireland and parts abroad and his house was always full of music, friends and young people. All were welcome. He was the classic Renaissance man – a brilliant intellect and enthusiastic participant in all aspects of knowledge, history, poetry, music, science and philosophy.
But most of all, Barry loved people. He befriended all, no matter their station in life, taking a genuine interest in their lives. A beloved father, grandfather and uncle, he was also a father figure to many of their friends and others, brought into his gentle sphere of love, guidance and inspiration. He was generous in spirit and rejoiced in friendship. He lived life fully, inspiring and touching the lives of so many.
We will hold him forever in our hearts.
Waking at Caul’s Funeral Home on Thursday, November 29th from 7:00 – 9:00 pm, and Friday, November 30th from 2:00 – 5:00 pm and 7:00 – 9:00 pm. Funeral service at Caul’s Chapel, LeMarchant Road, on Saturday, December 1, 2018 at 11:00 am. Reception and celebration of life following. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Barry’s memory to The Gathering Place in St. John’s.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Dr Barry Martin September 12 1936 November 25 2018..
Death notice for the town of: Torbay, Province: T-N