Obituary of Barbara Elizabeth (O’Connor) Kearney
CLIFTON PARK –
Barbara Elizabeth (O’Connor) Kearney, 88, of Clifton Park, formerly of Guilderland, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her own home in Clifton Park on January 2, 2024 with her loving family by her side. She had battled Alzheimer’s disease for the past 9 years.
Born on March 23, 1935 in Glens Falls, Barbara was the daughter of the late George and Agnes O’Connor. She was raised in Glens Falls, lived in Albany, then she and husband Jim went on to raise her family in Glens Falls, later moving back to Albany and Clifton Park.
Barbara was a graduate of St. Peter’s Hospital School of Nursing (class of 1956). As a Registered Nurse, Barb cared for the people of the Capital Region, North Country and beyond for 47 years. She worked at both St. Peter’s Hospital and Glens Falls Hospital, then later in her career for the American Lung Association and the NYS Dept of Health.
Barb volunteered at the Ten Broeck Mansion as a docent, and enjoyed volunteering at the TOAST school in her retirement. Her family remembers her for her quick wit and fierce loyalty. In her retirement, Barb traveled and took up kayaking/camping with a group who soon became good friends. Her perennial garden was the envy of many. But what she cherished most were her eight grandchildren. She was blessed to be close to 3 of her local grandchildren, and enjoyed trips to San Diego and Virginia Beach to spend time with her other 5 grands. She often took these trips with her ex-husband Jim, who remained her best friend.
Survivors include her children and their spouses: Kathleen (Pat) Culliton (Poway, CA) David (Robbie) Kearney (Virginia Beach, VA) and Mary Beth (Steve) Bulger (Clifton Park, NY). Her grandchildren: Laura (Dan), Kevin, Jim, Connor, Sean, Ryan, Brenna and David. She is also survived by one sister and brother-in-law: Mary Stokes (Andy) as well as many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Barbara was predeceased by her sisters: Joan Leonelli and Judy Gates (George), her brother Michael O’Connor (Linda) as well as her ex-husband James Kearney.
Barb’s Family wishes to acknowledge with heartfelt gratitude: The Community Hospice for their loving care, as well as Our Lady Of Mercy who took care of Barbara for the year prior to her return home.
Cremation has taken place through the care of Simple Choices, Inc. There will be no calling hours. Prayers will be offered in a private ceremony at the graveside for her immediate family in the Albany Rural Cemetery, Menands.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Barbara’s name may be directed to: Gateway House of Peace, Ballston Spa or The Community Hospice.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with Barb’s Family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com
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