Obituary of Barbara Ann Barrett

(KENDALL)

Barbara Ann Barrett, born October 24, 1939 was embraced by God on May 31, 2021. 

Barb was raised by a single mom, and learned early on the meaning of hard work.  She had many responsibilities being the oldest in the family.  She worked her way through Nazareth Academy and upon graduation was employed by Travelers Insurance Company for several years before marrying her husband Ed and starting the legacy that would be her family.  Taking care of a family on half a shoe string was no easy task.  She was a pro at stretching the pennies to keep her children fed and happy.  One of her common sayings was how she had to figure out how to “rob Peter to pay Paul.”  Her own needs were never a priority.  Her deep faith in God saw her through many difficult times, and gave her joy in the best of times.  During her years of raising her family, she was intermittently involved in many community activities. 

She was a member of the Kendall Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, taught religious education for many years, she was active in St. Mark’s Church, whether it was decorating the church for seasons, ironing linens and robes, and often donating to bereavement luncheons.  She was on many school committees involving her children and worked as a custodian for 14+ years at Kendall Central School, where she was a favorite of many students and staff.  She took great pride in her job.  The windows didn’t shine quite as bright after she retired.  Besides her faith in God, her family was her cherished and greatest love. One of her biggest joys was attending the many activities of her 7 children, 19 grandchildren and even some of the great grands.  Whether it was rec sports, school sports, concerts, plays, award ceremonies…she was there cheering her loves on and sometimes complaining about the refs!  She took great pride in her yard and loved taking care of her gardens.  She decorated for every holiday, both inside and outside, not only for her own enjoyment but for that of others to enjoy as well. 

The family will miss her “Happy Birthday” singing phone calls.  She often joked that maybe not, but rest assured it will be an empty spot on that day for everyone.  She had a deep faith in God and never missed the midnight Mass on EWTN.  She wore her emotions on her sleeve and prayed feverishly for everyone.  She will be deeply missed. 

Mrs. Barrett was predeceased by her husband Edward Barrett, her mother: Sally Pietrowski, brother: Robert Pietrowski, Father: Edward (Lois) Pietrowski, Uncle: Stan Szupa and several brothers and sisters-in-law. 

She is survived by her very loved children: Patricia (Dana) Longrod, Julia (Michael) Kludt, Joseph (Kathie) Barrett, John (Michelle) Barrett, Stephen (Amy) Barrett, Christopher (Kristine) Barrett, David (Stephanie) Barrett and also special in her heart: Jamie (Valerie), Troy, and William Miller.  She adored her 19 grandchildren: Alyssa (Garrett), Andrew (Jessica), Philip (Kaylie), Liz, Jacob, Joshua (Kevin), Justin (Lanie), James, Ryan, Jordan, Evan, Quintin, Olivia (Tristyn), Abby, Zachary, Nicholas, Brandon, Alea, and Lucas.  She was GG to 5 greats: Gavin, Eloise, Josie, Tanner and Chase.  She is also survived by her sister: Patricia (Steve) Morley, brother: Edward (Marlene) Pietrowski, sisters-in-law: Linda Pietrowski, Judy Szupa, Judy Barrett and brother-in-law: William (Mai) Barrett and many, many nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be no prior calling hours. 

Family and friends are invited to attend Barb’s Mass of Christian Burial, MONDAY 6/7 in St. Mark’s R.C. Church, Kenmore Rd.-Kendall, beginning at 6pm.  Private interment will be in West Kendall Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: Supportive Care of Orleans, P.O. Box 489, Albion, NY, 14411 or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105.