Barbara Rawlin, a resident of Wimborne, Dorset, England, passed away on 7 March, at the age of 110 years, 87 days. Her passing was first reported by the Oldest in Britain website, which tracks the oldest individuals in the United Kingdom.
Rawlin was born on 10 December 1914, in Duncan, British Columbia, Canada. She came from an aristocratic Irish family and moved to England as a toddler. As a child, she faced severe health issues, including tuberculosis, and suffered a serious accident when she fell into scalding water. Her health struggles continued with measles, whooping cough, and more tuberculosis. Unable to attend school for two years, she was sent north for cleaner air, living in isolation with only a nurse for company. Later, she stayed with an uncle and his wife, who were less fearful of her condition.
She eventually reunited with her family in Tunbridge Wells, where she discovered her faith through a Bible class. Seeking better health, she traveled to Switzerland but had to leave hurriedly in 1939, just two weeks before World War II began. In London, she found work at St. Mary’s Hospital, where she experienced her first air raid while making beds.
Later, she ran a bed and breakfast and married widower Athol Rawlin, becoming a mother to his two children, one just a baby. As a Marine sergeant major, Athol took the family to Malta and Singapore before they returned to England.
The featured image was sourced from the Purbeck Gazette.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Barbara Rawlin during this difficult time.
