Barbara Ann Debenedictis

Barbara Ann DeBenedictis, age 78, passed away in her home on Salem Street, Wakefield after a brief illness.  She was the only child born to Joseph L. Casey and Helen (Oberg) Casey of Boston and was their little sweetheart.  After attending a Catholic elementary school, she went on to graduate from South Boston High School in 1961.  Her friends described her as sweet and nice.  She was a member of the Glee Club and also a secretary for the school.  Barbara continued her education at Leslie College and studied psychology.

Barbara started singing, dancing and performing in musicals at a young age.  She was very talented and truly delighted in performing.  A favorite of mine was “Pennies from Heaven”.    The Paulist Center in Boston was a huge part of Barbara’s life.  It was a Catholic Church that was progressive and inclusive and offered a wonderful sense of community.  Barbara met her lifelong friends, Joanie and Roy at the Center.  They enjoyed many dinners, movies and pleasant conversations together.

In 1981, Barbara established her Caring School and Day Care in Wakefield.  She was a loving, devoted and kind teacher to all of her children.  She often engaged them in conversation to find out what made them “them”.  She listened intently to their stories and made every child feel important and special.  And her lesson plans were always filled with fun!  Her students treasured her.

Later in the 80’s Barbara also worked in a travel agency.  She was adventurous and inquisitive, always needing to learn about the destination and it’s people.  She traveled many times to Bermuda and loved riding the mopeds around the island.  Barbara took many trips with friends including Paris, Italy and Mexico.  She also enjoyed cruises with her friends Annette, Barbara and Diane.  She had an infectious smile and was nicknamed sometimes by the bar tenders and servers.  “Apple cheeks” and “Boom Boom” come to mind.  As well as a great sense of humor, Barbara always was there to offer a sympathetic ear to her friends and strangers alike.  Barbara will be missed by all whose lives she touched.