Isabel Barr, the former chairperson of Cordale Housing Association, sadly passed away on 23 June after a short illness.

Isabel sat on the management committee for over 20 years, having only recently resigned due to ill health.

Very few people would have dedicated so much time and effort to make their community a better place to live.

Isabel was determined to make a difference to her community. Her commitment and dedication to Cordale was quite unique, and the contribution she made remarkable.

In recent years Isabel held the position as chairperson. Isabel’s strong, principled and resilient leadership helped the organisation through some very tough times.

Margaret McCallion, chairperson of Cordale Housing Association, said: “Isabel deserves enormous recognition for what she achieved at Cordale. She was passionate and driven to achieve good for her community. To participate on the management committee for over 20 years is a remarkable achievement that provides an insight as to what kind of person she was. In recent years her leadership was critical in helping Cordale get to a better place. Her resilience, strength of character and determination were inspiring. Isabel was a special person who will be greatly missed.”

Isabel’s legacy has been to leave the Association in a healthy position and well placed to have a bright future. Isabel will be greatly missed by the Cordale committee and staff and their thoughts are with her family at this difficult time.

Isabel led the Association as it established a partnership with Caledonia Housing Association.

Julie Cosgrove, chief executive officer of Caledonia Housing Association, added: “I worked with Isabel over the past 3 years and found her to be one of the most strong willed and resilient women I have ever met. Her dedication and commitment to Cordale Housing Association and to Renton was remarkable and truly inspirational. I personally will miss her and the positive outlook she was able to bring to even the most challenging of times. On behalf of all at Caledonia Housing Association our deepest sympathies and thoughts are with the family at this sad time.”

The funeral is to be held on Monday, June 29, 2015 at St Martin’s Chapel, 331 Main Street, Renton G82 4PZ for 9.30am Mass.

@CordaleHousing