Thelma Barlow

STRATHAM — Thelma C. Barlow, 94, died Friday, Nov. 19, 2010, at her home in Stratham, following a brief illness.

She was born Nov. 8, 1916, the fourth child of Samuel and Margaret (Richard) Cote, and was a longtime resident of Exeter, moving to Stratham following her husband's retirement. She attended Exeter elementary schools and Robinson Female Seminary, Class of 1935.

Her 67-year marriage to Paul F. Barlow ended upon his death in 2004. Their union produced five children: Linda (Mrs. Bill Grant) of Kingston, Jane (Mrs. John Bernier) of Kensington, Robert of Kensington, Peter of Stratham, and Christopher (Brenda) of Brentwood; 11 grandchildren, Gary Stevens, Thomas Stevens, Michael Stevens, Jennifer Morrison, Julie McCown, Christopher Bernier, Danielle Moreno, Jeremy Bernier, John LaChapelle, Mariann Ingermann and Jessica Barlow; several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Paul, she was predeceased by her grandson, Christopher Bernier; sisters, Winifred (Vedrani) and Muriel (Waleryszak); brothers, Ernest and Olin, and two siblings who died at birth.

Besides her children, she is also survived by a special niece, Ann Reardon, and three beloved friends, Bette Henneberry, Olive Tardiff, and Marilyn Brewster.

Mrs. Barlow taught at Rockingham School in Exeter for many years and continued to keep in touch with many of her former students. She belonged to The Exeter Historical Society and The Robinson Female Seminary Association. Walking, knitting, cooking, canning and reading were just a few of the many activities that occupied her time well into her nineties. One of her favorite interests was the observation and study of nature, particularly birds and wild flowers.

Her family considered her a "National Treasure." She championed the "underdog" and was always available to those who needed a pat on the back, a little encouragement, or some words of wisdom. She was a nurturer of friendships and no one was a stranger to her for very long! Never a complainer, she took what life gave her and made the best of every situation, always with a sense of humor. She will be terribly missed by those who knew her and loved her, but her spirit will continue in the lives she created, shared and influenced.

Mrs. Barlow's family wishes to acknowledge the joint efforts of Rockingham VNA & Hospice for the wonderful support and loving care they all gave to her during the last few weeks of her life, in particular, Ray, Laura, Tricia, Lisa, Barbara, Martha, Emily and Dick. They made it possible for our mother to remain in her home and were always there when needed.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Mrs. Barlow's life at The Green Gate, 185 Court St., Exeter, Wednesday, Dec. 1 at 1 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made to Rockingham VNA & Hospice, 137 Epping Road, Exeter, NH 03833 or Exeter Historical Society, 47 Front St., Exeter, NH 03833.

Brewitt Funeral Home, Exeter is handling the arrangements. To sign the online guest book, please visit www.brewittfuneralhome.com.

Visit www.fosters.com/obits to view the online guest book.