Eleanor Elizabeth Barry

1925 - 2022

Eleanor Elizabeth Barry
October 20, 1925 - December 30, 2022
Eleanor Elizabeth Barry, 97, passed away peacefully at her home in San Francisco on December 30, 2022 surrounded by her loving family and friends. Eleanor was a loving and devoted wife to her late husband, Bill, and mother to her large family. She was an inspirational matriarch, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and a belief that her family comes first. She is survived by her six children: Diane (Barry), Sally (John), Dan, Pat (Chris), Polly (Jon), and Kevin (Maureen), her 17 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren who affectionately called her "Grandmere" and "Mimi." Eleanor's loving spirit will remain with the family forever. Born in San Francisco on October 20, 1925 to Elizabeth and Ewell Arnold. Eleanor grew up in Albany, CA, where she developed into a strong, intelligent and determined woman. Eleanor worked to pay tuition and eventually graduated from UC Berkeley, with a degree in Sociology. She was a huge Cal fan, attended many football games tailgating with friends and family. Go Bears! Eleanor met the love of her life, Dr. Daniel (Bill) Barry at a dance in Carmel. After they married they settled in San Francisco and raised their six children, "Barry's Bunch." Eleanor was staunchly loyal mother and friend, who accepted everyone for who they were, was never judgmental and sometimes plainly honest. She had special talent for giving the perfect unique gift wrapping it impossibly tight. Eleanor loved traveling, walking and riding the SF streetcars to her destination. In addition to raising a family, Eleanor volunteered at St. Brendan's, St. Ignatius Women's Group, Forest Hill Garden Club and Little Sister's of the Poor. Eleanor loved the arts was a season ticketholder for the ballet. She was an avid tennis player until the age of 91 and a lifetime member of the Olympic Club. Eleanor had an amazing life, witnessed countless family events and celebration. After her husband passed in 2016, she continued to be the strong matriarch. For almost a century, her family was unbelievably blessed and lucky to have the gift of Eleanor in their lives. Eleanor will be missed and always in our hearts.
A Celebration of life: February 11, 2023 at 12:30 at St. Brendan's Church, 29 Rockaway San Francisco, CA.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Eleanor's name to Little Sisters of the Poor or the Olympic Club Foundation.