Isabell Barbour, a lifelong Cumann na mBan activist and devoted mother, died suddenly while on holiday in Benidorm, Spain, on 17 October 2026. Her death was announced shortly after the funeral arrangements were made.
The funeral service was held at St Columba’s Church in Long Tower, after which she was buried in Derry City Cemetery. The oration was delivered by her longtime friend and fellow republican Lynn Fleming, a former Waterside Sinn Féin councillor and mayor of Derry.
Fleming described Barbour as a courageous, outspoken member of Cumann na mBan who fought for women’s recognition within the republican struggle, resisted attempts to diminish the group’s identity, and remained loyal to her convictions despite personal hardship and injury. She emphasized Barbour’s lasting impact on the movement and her community.
Family, friends and comrades mourned her loss, emphasizing her love for her children and grandchildren and pledged to preserve her legacy as a rebel, a loyal friend, and a symbol of steadfast republican spirit. They vowed to keep her memory alive.
Source: www.derrynow.com
