Obituary of Barbara M. McLean
TROY –
Barbara Margaret “Bobby” McLean, 83, of Troy, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2025, after facing several health challenges with strength and grace.
Born on August 14, 1941, to the late James and Pearl (Smith) McLean, she lived her life with determination and strong will. A graduate of Milne High School, she placed great value on education, earning her BA and MSW from the University at Albany. Her academic journey continued at the University at Buffalo, where she obtained her JD.
Barbara combined her education and passion for justice in her work as a law guardian for the Rensselaer County Family Court, serving under Judge Beth Walsh. She was a fierce advocate for children, and was personally uplifted by each success story.
After returning to the Capital Region, Barbara met her beloved life partner, Marni McCoy. Together, they shared nearly 20 wonderful years until Marni’s passing. Barbara also treasured her decades-long friendship with Phyllis Rusnock, with whom she joyfully watched college basketball.
In her younger years, Bobby was an avid traveler and golfer, especially proud of playing at Pebble Beach in the 1980s. Her heart was drawn to Cape Cod, where she frequently visited Truro, Provincetown, and Hyannis—places where she reconnected with family and friends while forging new bonds. In 2006, she brought both sides of her family together for a Smith-McLean family reunion, a memory that continues to resonate.
Barbara loved downtown Troy, especially the Troy Farmers Market, where she could often be found enjoying the city’s vibrant energy. She loved the arts, good food—especially a Reuben sandwich from Naughter’s—and peaceful moments at places like Wiawaka on Lake George.
She is survived by her brother James C. McLean, her cherished nieces Amy (McLean) Ellis (Aaron), Megan McLean, nephews Eric McLean (Regina), Justin Schacht (Autumn) and several great-nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind treasured friendships with Jack Moirin, Cara Romanzo, and Cousins Lisa Lowell (Raymond Perugini), and Bob McLean (Cindy).
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate team at Rosewood Nursing Center, where Barbara spent her final months. The clinical care, emotional support, and personal attention provided by the nurses, aides, housekeeping staff, and especially the OT and PT teams were extraordinary. Special thanks to Dmitri Belov, MD, Kristen Santos, DO, and nurse case manager, and dear friend Judy DeLong-Broda for their exceptional care.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Wiawaka Center for Women, 3778 Route 9L, Lake George, NY 12845. https://www.wiawaka.org/
A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held at a later date. Cremation Arrangements have been entrusted to: Simple Choices, Inc., 218 2nd Avenue, Troy, NY 12180. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the McLean Family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com
Share Your Memory of
Barbara
