Barbara A. (DelNegro) O’Connor, 85, of Worcester, died Friday, March 29th, in Holy Trinity Nursing Home surrounded by her loving family.
Her husband of 60 years, George J. “Wingsy” O’Connor, Jr., died in 2018. She leaves two sons, Steven J. “Okie” O’Connor of Worcester, and Sean Michael O’Connor and his wife, Carrie of Millbury; a daughter, Cheryl A. Weil of Auburn; seven grandchildren, Edward, Michael, Christiana, Johnny, Gabrielle, Jared, and Collin; four great-grandchildren, Thayne, Devin, Kylie, and Bennett; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by two brothers, Robert DelNegro and George DelNegro, Jr.; a sister, Harriett Creelman; and a grandson, Bryant O’Connor.
Born and raised in Worcester, the daughter of the late George R. and Blanche A. (Gobeille) DelNegro, and graduated from the former High School of Commerce. Barbara was deeply proud of her Italian heritage and held dear the memories of her upbringing on Shrewsbury Street. She had a special fondness for the quaint mom-and-pop shops that adorned her childhood neighborhood. Barbara was the beloved owner of Barbara’s Ceramic Workshop. She retired from her cherished workshop in 2004, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and artistry that touched the lives of many. She was a member of North American Martyrs Church.
Barbara had a profound love for the beach, particularly Hampton Beach and Covell Beach at Cape Cod. It was there that she found solace and tranquility, eventually purchasing a home where she spent 30 blissful years creating treasured memories with her loved ones.
A devoted animal lover, Barbara had a soft spot for German Shepherds, with her favorite companion being Ginger. She was known for spoiling all the family dogs with endless love and affection.
Beyond her personal passions, Barbara was deeply committed to giving back to her community. She took great pride in her sponsorship of the Gazette Santa Fund and St. Jude Children’s Hospital, knowing that her contributions were making a difference in the lives of others.
Barbara’s family was grateful for the care and support she received from the Massachusetts Blind Association and Holy Trinity, which allowed her to live comfortably and with dignity.
She will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her kindness, generosity, and zest for life will forever remain in the hearts she touched.
Calling hours are Tuesday, April 2nd from 9:30 until 10:30 a.m. in O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue followed by her funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. in North American Martyrs Church, 8 Wyoma Drive, Auburn. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Massachusetts Association of the Blind, 200 Ivy St., Brookline, MA 02446.