Barbara A. (Watson) Ryan, age 78, passed away on April 25, 2020 at Baystate Medical Center. She was born on May 31, 1941 in Hornell, NY, the daughter of the late George and Eleanor (Morrison) Watson. She is survived by her loving husband John "Jack" Francis Ryan Jr of Chicopee; 2 sons, Steven Richards and his wife Lynn of Three Rivers and John Richards and his fiancé Daphne Colbath of Chicopee; 2 daughters, Sandi Barrett of Chicopee and Patty Ryan- Haag and her husband Jeff of Hamden, CT; 9 grandchildren, Robert Barrett, Ashley Barrett, Shawn Richards, Mary Richards, Gina Richards, Emily Haag, Julia Haag, Elizabeth Haag and Alexander Haag. She also leaves 3 beloved great grandchildren. She is predeceased by her sisters Carol Pelliteri and Jean Grimmer. Barbara had an incredible work ethic and was truly passionate about her work. For 15 years, she was a switchboard operator for Riverbend Medical Center and later graced Shriners Hospital for many years before she retired. Barbara treated the patients and their families with love and compassion; as if they were her extended family. Barbara became known as “the face of Shriners” as she had the privilege of being the first one to welcome anyone walking through the doors. She played this role well shining her light and being a beacon of hope; touching each visitor with her winsome smile, her infectious laugh and a warm embrace. One of Barbara’s greatest passions was gymnastics. She was a NAWGJ nationally rated gymnastics official for nearly 40 years. A spark was lit when her daughter Patty became a competitive gymnast, and Barbara never looked back. Barbara had such tremendous affection for the sport that it inspired her daughter Sandi to become a gymnastics coach. Her enthusiasm for judging overflowed; inspiriting both daughters to join her in the arena of judging, all three sharing the love of the sport. The gymnasts, coaches, and judges of this community meant the world to her and she to it. Barbara had a keen sense at seeing the greatness in each child; lifting their spirit, boosting their confidence to become great competitors and champions. She was a mentor to so many; instilling compassion coupled with a supreme education. But the jewel of the crown for Barbara was her family. She and Jack were blessed with a loving marriage for nearly fifty years. They were truly soulmates. They shared an adventure -filled life creating magical memories which included taking 3-hour car-rides just to have breakfast and surrounding themselves with family and friends in the Berkshires. Time with her family was most cherished, being with her family always brought a twinkle to her eye. Barbara was a proud wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. The void she leaves is immense, but her light will never dim. She gave us so much more than just her love during her lifetime. Family was her center. All services will be private. Burial will take place in St Rose de Lima Cemetery. The Grise Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.