Help Us Honour a Life of Faith, Music, and Love

Dear friends, family, and kind-hearted supporters,

I’m reaching out to you with a heavy heart to ask for your help in giving a beloved woman— Barbara Van Praag Sigaar—the farewell she so deeply deserves. She lived a long, vibrant, and fulfilling life, passing away peacefully at 95 after a battle with dementia. While her life was a gift to so many, her final weeks and days were a painful struggle, not only for her but for her devoted daughter and son-in-law, who fought tirelessly by her side.

This remarkable woman was a cornerstone of her church community, a devout believer whose faith touched lives across countries. To countless members of her congregation, she was more than a friend—she was a spiritual mother, a source of inspiration, and a guiding light. Her love for God shone through in everything she did, and her legacy of kindness and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

She was also blessed with a breathtaking operatic voice, a gift she shared generously. Whether she was singing at church functions—her voice rising above all others in beautiful harmony—or coaching her students with unwavering patience and love, she brought beauty and joy to the world. As a cherished voice coach, she poured her heart into nurturing talent, often organising performances to showcase her students’ abilities. Her passion for music was matched only by her passion for uplifting those around her.

Her daughter and son-in-law, Silra and Ben, fought relentlessly against the challenges of the UK healthcare system, navigating a maze of obstacles to obtain the highest level of care possible in her final years. The emotional and physical toll of caring for someone with dementia is unimaginable, yet they never wavered in their commitment to their mother’s dignity and comfort. Now, as we prepare to say goodbye, the costs of a fitting funeral and memorial weigh heavily on their already burdened shoulders.

In this time of mourning, we’re turning to you—her extended family, her church community, and beloved students— to help us honour this extraordinary woman’s life. Your donation, no matter the size, will help cover funeral expenses and give her the send-off she deserves. As one of Silra and Ben’s closest friends I’m organising this fundraiser on their behalf, aiming to raise an initial target of £9,000 (British pounds) to ensure a service filled with love, music, and gratitude—reflecting the joy she brought to so many. Should we exceed this goal, any additional funds will go toward a headstone for her father’s grave, reuniting them in memory with the dignity they both deserve, as well as to Dementia UK and Joshua House Orphanage in Guyana, established by Auntie Barbara.

Thank you for taking the time to read her story. Thank you for keeping her memory alive with your generosity. Together, we can celebrate a life that blessed so many—a life of faith, song, and unshakable love.

With gratitude,

Rebecca Coombs