Barbara passed peacefully on February 22, 2026, surrounded by the love of her six children. Born on August 21, 1936 in Swampscott, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of Harry and Flora (Ritchie) Lord of Lynn Massachusetts, parents she revered deeply.
Known lovingly as “Dolly” by her father, Barbara grew up in Lynn and graduated from Lynn English High School in 1954, where she was a cheerleader and was known for her many friendships. In 1955, she married Frank Strugnell, and together they made their home in Swampscott. Her first job after high school was at George Place’s (CPA) in Lynn, and while raising her children, she worked as a waitress at local restaurants.
In the 1970s, Barbara began working at Salem Hospital in an administrative role in the operating department, where she remained until her early retirement. In the late 1980s, she and Frank moved to New Hampshire to open a family-run restaurant in Hudson called Cherubs, a name inspired by the affectionate nickname she used for her children and grandchildren. She has made her home in Derry, New Hampshire for the past 30 years.
Above all else, Barbara treasured time spent with her family. She carried fond memories of childhood trips to Sebago Lake, where she camped with many of her parents’ friends and family, and later of her parents’ cottage in East Wakefield, New Hampshire. Although a Baptist at heart, she attended St. Stephen’s Church in Lynn every Sunday with her children and volunteered for many years as a Girl Scout leader.
Barbara was outgoing and always eager to go out, meet new people, and attend parties. She loved to have fun! In her later years, Barbara took great pride in her Scottish heritage, her deep New England roots and patriotic lineage, finding joy in learning about her family history. She enjoyed her many “field trips” with Lynne and Lisa, often visiting cemeteries, and communities connected to her ancestors. She also delighted in traveling with Frank, creating lasting memories together in Europe and Newfoundland.
Barbara cherished her children, recently expressing deep gratitude for Diane, who communicated with medical teams and advocated fiercely for respectful treatment, always ensuring Barbara’s involvement in medical decisions. Impressed with Mark’s talent, she displayed his artwork in her home. Barbara and Michele enjoyed cooking together in her earlier years, and she frequently expressed pride in Todd’s career path and his commitment to helping others.
Barbara was predeceased by her husband Frank. Survivors include Lynne Mari of Derry NH, Diane Scotina and her husband Joe of Hudson NH, Mark Strugnell and his wife Sue of Salem NH, Lisa Rose and her husband Alan of Dracut MA, Michele Schultz and her husband Jim of Salem MA, and Todd Strugnell and his wife Cristin of Milford NH, as well as grandchildren Kristen, Shayna, Michaela, Joy, Jesse, Janelle, Alyson, Melissa, Tony, Jesse, Jenna, Nick, Courtney, and Garrett. Great-grandchildren Aiden, Jase, Jesiah, Jevon, Walker, Waylon, Adria and nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.
Calling hours will be held on Saturday March 7, 2026, 1-3 PM with a private service to follow in the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch Street, Derry.
With gratitude for your kindness and support, the family kindly requests that no flowers be sent. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Barbara’s memory to Shriners Children’s Boston, Attn: Shriners Children's PO Box 947765 Atlanta, GA 30394 or to www.donate.shrinerschildrens.org