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Barbara Keating Obituary
Barbara Keating spent 25 years in public service, 10 as executive director of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Middlesex, outside Boston. She was widowed almost 20 years ago and survived two occurrences of breast cancer. At 72, she split her time between Cape Cod, Mass., and Palm Springs, Calif., where she drove a red Sebring convertible and went to church every day.
She was someone you would not talk back to, said Paul Keating, one of her five children; she was smart, tough, professional and funny. "The joke was she could always find a restaurant with a good martini," he said. She took hers dry, with two olives.
She planned her year around visits with her 12 grandchildren, in Texas, Massachusetts and California.
A longtime friend, Eunice Maloney, remembers her quiet kindnesses. "She drove people for cancer treatments," she said. "She was always doing something for somebody, but she never said much about it."
Ms. Maloney remembers talking to her about five days before she was killed on American Airlines Flight 11 as she was returning to California from a visit with her East Coast grandchildren.
"She told me she was very happy with her life," Ms. Maloney said. "Later she left me a note that said she was very glad for my friendship. I thought maybe she wouldn't be coming back to the Cape. Little did I know."
Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on June 16, 2002.
After her husband's death, Barbara Keating moved from Cape Cod to Palm Springs, Calif.
Every summer she returned to Massachusetts for a few months to visit. This summer, though, would be her last, she said, because her friends in Massachusetts were dwindling.
On her flight back to California, Keating died when American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the north tower of the World Trade Center.
"She was a wonderful woman, always had a smile on her face," said Rev. Philip Behan, pastor of St. Theresa Catholic Church in Palm Springs.
Keating, 72, worked as a receptionist at the parish office. She could often be seen driving around Palm Springs in a red convertible sports car, always with the top down.
"Usually, she and a few other women would be driving around, even in the winter when it gets sort of cold, she had that top down," Behan said. "She also liked to celebrate. Her drink was always a martini with extra olives."
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Barbara Sucharewicz
September 10, 2024
Thinking of Barbara today. I always loved sitting with you at our Oak St. beach. We shared a similar taste in reading and traded book suggestions. I will always miss that and our chats.
Tom H
September 14, 2023
Barbara our thoughts are with you today. You will never be forgotten. Deepest regards to your family and friends.
Barbara McEnaney
November 10, 2020
I was watching a tv programme about ground zero, and on more than one occasion the camera passed over the names of the ones lost. Barbara's name was on every shot, I decided to look her up and read about her. So sorry for the loss her family are feeling. If I get back to visit New York I will go and see where her name is. God bless her. I am from the UK.
Kathy Keating-Iola
September 11, 2019
May her memory be eternal. My sister's name is Barbara Keating who lives in CA. She was visiting back east when 9/11 happened. She went back to CA just before that date. After hearing the names of those that passed, some of our family and friends thought my sister had died. We felt a strange connection with your Barbara. My sister and I had the opportunity to visit the memorial at the towers and were moved when we saw your Barbara's name. I read about her life and was very touched. I am so sorry for your loss and pray for her. May her memory be eternal.
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Landon Odden
September 4, 2019
Hi Im a sophomore from Shanley high school in Fargo, North Dakota and we are doing a 9/11 unit for religion. We are learning about those who died on the tragic day and I got the chance to learn about Barbara. She seemed like a great person and very religious as she went to mass everyday in California after her husband died. I would also assumed she was a great grandmother because she was visiting her grandchildren before her flight back to California which was Flight 11. Me and my families condolences go out to Barbaras family and I hope she is resting in peace with God.
Sadey Koch
September 14, 2016
I learned about you because of a religion assignment in which we researched a person who passed away on September 11th. In learning more about your life, it helped me realize that each and every person who died that day 15 years ago had a family, friends, passion, and distinct personality. From now on, every September that passes, I will remember your picture and your story and say a prayer for your family. Thank you Barbara for opening my eyes and allowing your life to inspire others to live each day to the fullest.
Peggy Sullivan
September 11, 2016
God bless you Barbara. You are thought of and remembered often. Hugs to you.
Nancy Keating Maxfield
September 12, 2015
RIP, Barbara and Bill Henry. I hadn't seen you since Aunt Marie's death and then we all lost touch. I know how proud Aunt Marie and Uncle Bill were of you and Bill and how often they talked about you and the grandkids. From what I have read, you accomplished more in your life than many others do and you left many broken hearts but, while hearts may be broken, the memories make one smile. Whenever I have a martini, I will smile and think of you.
Del Newberry
July 14, 2015
What a delight to read about such a wonderfully tough, funny, caring woman. Today I pause to pray for Barbara's friends and family. I see that she had grandchildren in Texas, where I live. I'll never forget that tragic day when we all came together as a country. We were not New Yorkers or Texans, but we were Americans who had been attacked by terrorists. I know the losses will be forever felt, and the pain will never go away, but I hope that each one of us learned something about the sanctity of life and to cherish each moment we are given. Much love to all of Barbara's friends and family. With love from Texas,
Ann Nelson Abram
September 11, 2014
Another year passes but the sadness of losing Barbara will always be with me. She was my mentor and friend. I loved going out to dinner with her and she taught me to like gin! We had an amazing week in Puerto Rico after Bill died. She also made an amazing chicken divan!
Chuck King
September 9, 2012
I met Barbara Keating 20-25 years ago when she worked for Big Brother/Big Sister. I was a little brother then. I did not find out she was on Flight 11 until a few years back, when my Big Brother (who I still talk to all the time) told me. Thank you for posting this. RIP Barbara.
September 24, 2011
I have a great picture of Barbara and Bill dancing at a party in my parents house on Fairbrook Rd. Those were great times. rest in peace Barbara. You will be in the hearts of the American people forever.
Michael Cournyn
September 22, 2011
I had wondered if this was the same Barbara Keating who lived next door to me on Fairbrook Rd. I'm sorry to find it true. I remember Bill pulling my ear to break up a fight on his front lawn and Johnny helped me to get my first stitches. I thought their new house downtown was awesome. But then we grew apart. I remember her face and hope the rest of the family is well.
Matthew Keating
September 11, 2011
After watching Rising: Rebuilding Ground Zero - A Place To Mourn, I noticed Barbara's name engraved in the memorial because I recognized her last name. Curious, I wanted to know more about her and I learned of the amazing person she was! And I pray,"Lord, hear our prayers; in your mercy, bring us to your place of peace and light the souls of your servants, Barbara and all those wonderful people taken that day, whom you have summoned from this world. Call them to be numbered in the fellowship of your saints. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen."
charise morgan
September 11, 2011
"The former things will not be called to mind neither will they come into the heart."-Isaiah 65:21. By means of this promise, you will not have to relive this tradegic day every year to remember your loved ones, because the almighty will resurrect your loved ones right here on a paradise earth, where you will be reunited in peace and happiness.
My Condolence,
[email protected]
Peggy Childers
September 11, 2011
To the family and friends of Barbara Keating:
Barbara will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not allow those we lost on 9/11 be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you.
Brian Fitzgerald
September 10, 2011
Welcome Keatings to NYC for 10 year anniversary! You haven't changed a bit.
Barbara would be so proud of the grandchildren. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree!
shannon williiams
September 9, 2011
We will never forget you or all that were lost on that day.
May the angels hold you close
Tom f
September 9, 2011
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
clayton&melissa ramsey
September 7, 2011
Our prayers are with the families of the lost loved ones of 9/11
Lisa
September 11, 2008
Today and always, you and your family are in my thoughts.
Julia
December 25, 2007
Rest in Peace Miss Keating.
patricia & timothy & family prizio
September 17, 2007
Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
September 11, 2007
Remembering you on this day and always.
Sharon
September 9, 2007
In memory..
P Tabbernor
June 7, 2007
In remembrance....
Adrienne
April 26, 2007
We will never forget...
Kristine
October 31, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
shannon &janice williams
August 24, 2006
we are sorry that you are gone, but you are not forgotten in the hearts of those who knew you. may you rest in peace with the lord.
Jane B.
August 23, 2006
To the Keating Family--
Your mom is a most amazing woman. I did not know her personally--but I did work with her son John and I went to school with him at Framingham State. He is an incredible person. I knew her son Mike too. He used to come into Zayre's and buy a pretzel when I worked at the Popcorn stand. (wow, I feel old now!) I don't know if either John or Mike remembers me but I wanted them to know I was so sorry to hear about what happened to a woman whose life was so obviously based on loving and helping others.
Jane
K. Melaragni
February 25, 2005
Barbara, we will never forget. May you Rest In Peace.
April 30, 2004
barbara you sound like a great person let god treat you well you deserive it
Betsy Spratt
September 18, 2003
Barbara was a light in my life. She was a good friend, a good listener and a good sport. I miss her each and every day. I know that she is at peace, but I miss her so....Bless her and all the victims of 9-11. May they rest in peace.
Manny Souza
September 13, 2003
I did not know Mrs. Keating personally however, her daughter-in -law was one of my mentors. I remember when Beth would speak about Mrs. Keating's love of Cape Cod and Palm Springs. I always think of Mrs. Keating whenever the topic of 9/11 is discussed. My thoughts also for Beth, Mike, and children.
K. Melaragni
September 12, 2003
Barbara...you will never be forgotten. Prayers and thoughts for your family always.
sandra fletcher-raines
September 12, 2003
barbara and her husband bill...we called ourselves, mom, dad and the kid...not that she needed another one..fridays in the kitchen in framingham ..after work with gin and tonics and brie cheese...sharing the love of music...the house on the cape...thanks for looking out for me. i know you were surrounded by angels at 8:56am on sept 11, 2001.
david palughi
March 9, 2003
i went to Manasquan High School with Paul.....He was 2 years younger than me and we worked on the school newspaper together....We somehow got in a little trouble by using the school printer without being allowed ........I am so glad i came across this and hope he is reading all of these wonderful writings........
He is an American Hero......I am glad i knew him....God bless you Paul.......
John McClain
September 11, 2002
I worked with Barbara Keating's husband Bill who died 19 years ago. The world is a much better place because of Barbara, her loss diminishes all of the earth's people.
Ginny Nagel
September 10, 2002
I'm wearing a bracellet today and tomoorw with Barbara Keating's name on it. She seemed like a great woman and the type of person I hope to be one day. God Bless her.
Mackenzie Brown
September 10, 2002
Hello my name is Mackenzie.I'm sorry about your loss. I will pray for you on September 11th.I hope everything is going ok for you.I recently lost someone so I know how you feel.Hope you have a wonderful life.
Sircerly,
Mackenzie Brown
Barbara Keating-Urnoski
September 9, 2002
What a privilege to share a name with such a kind and dear woman. May I try to continue to share her spirit and kindnesses in her memory. I will cherish my days and keep her in my heart.
Brian Fitzgerald
September 7, 2002
The Keatings were dear friends of the family for a long time, beginning when we lived in little houses on Fairbrook Road, Framingham. When the Keatings outgrew the place, they moved to a big old house on the College Hill; a little while later, Barbara told my mom about a place for sale nearby, where we moved to make room for our own growing family.
The oldest son, John, was our role model and made us think about our involvement in the Vietnam War. The two daughters, Patty and Joanne, babysat us and nurtured and taught us. The two youngest sons, Michael and Paul, were our age, and we went to church and school with them and played with them. Bill, the father, we respected; his own death was untimely. Having survived that tragedy and two breast cancers for so many years, and then, having just visited her grandchildren and two youngest sons, to then be killed by terrorists: The irony is appalling. Barbara's kindness, warmth, and honesty lives today in her children, who have achieved individual greatness across North America.
BILL E.
August 31, 2002
MY NAME IS BILL AND I WORK AT THE MGM GRAND IN LAS VEGAS. TODAY I TOOK PART IN A BLOOD DRIVE TO HONOR THE VICTEMS OF 9/11. I DIDN'T KNOW THAT WE'D BE GIVEN THE NAME OF ONE OF THE VICTIMS UNTIL I WAS FINISHED DONATING. I'VE DONATED MANY TIMES IN MY SHORT 39 YEARS, BUT, THIS TIME IT TOOK ON A SPECIAL MEANING FOR ME.
I OF COURSE DID NOT KNOW BARBARA.
BUT AFTER READING HER SHORT BIOGRAPHY AM VERY PROUD TO HAVE DONATED IN HER NAME. MANY OF MY FELLOW CO-WORKERS ALSO DONATED IN MEMORANDOM (HUNDERDS), WITHOUT KNOWING THE PERSON BEING HONORED.
AFTER READING ABOUT HER LIFE I'M SURE SHE WOULD BE HAPPY ABOUT HOW I'VE COME TO "KNOW" HER. SHE WAS A VERY SELFLESS AND GIVING PERSON WITH LIFES SPARK THAT ALL AMERICANS HAVE INSIDE.
TO HER FRIENDS I WILL HAVE A MARTINI IN HER MEMORY EVEN THOUGH I DON'T CARE FOR THEM AND THE NEXT TIME I SEE A "LITTLE OLD LADY" DRIVING A CONVERTABLE I'LL THINK OF YOU! GOD BLESS.
P.S. DONATE BLOOD, IT DOESN'T HURT, AND IT SAVES LIVES JUST LIKE IT DID ON THAT TRAGIC DAY. GIVE A LITTLE OF YOURSELF TO SOMEONE WHO NEEDS IT, JUST LIKE BARBARA DID DURING HER LIFE.
BILL
Hayley Crow
August 20, 2002
Barbara, you are missed very much at St. Theresa's Church, and all throughout Palm Springs. You are often on my mind and in my heart. I am glad that you have finnaly gone home to Heaven, where you belong, as you truly are an angel. God Bless you, and God Bless your family. I miss you.
June 5, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL WOMAN..BARBARA KEATING AND MAY HER SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HER LOVING FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.GOD BLESS AMERICA..AMEN
Edward Resendez
May 29, 2002
Dear Barbara
I dont know you but you seem like a wonderfull person! I know your in heaven watching us while we pray for you.Entell the day we can meet again in my heart is wear i'll keep you friend.May you rest in peace.
erica
May 14, 2002
GOD BLESS YOU BARBARA KEATING, YOU ARE NOW WITH YOU HUSBAND SPENDING ETERNAL PEACE TOGETHER. YOU LEFT THIS WORLD IN SUCH A TRAGIC WAY, BUT YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
Marion Jarecki
March 14, 2002
Barbera
May our Lord hold you in the palm of His hand.
Sheila Werland
March 13, 2002
From what I have read Barbara enjoyed life immensely. I am truly saddened that she was taken in such a tragic way. I did not know her, but wish I could have. God Bless.
Peter Byron
March 11, 2002
With you Barbara the world relizes that Hero's come in all shapes and sizes, unfortunately, sometime's the lord works in mysterious ways. To those who loved you most, you will never be forgotten...
Teresa Jahn
January 11, 2002
May Barbara's life and love (along with driving with the top down) live on in you. May precious memories of times shared lighten the sorrow in your hearts. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Kathy Swaringen
December 11, 2001
Today, Dec 11th, 2001, 1 mile was walked to honor the life of Barbara and all the family, friends and loved ones she left behind. May you find some comfort in knowing that you do not grieve alone.
Barbara, you will never be forgotten, may you Rest in Peace.
Barbara Bolin
September 27, 2001
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU ALL.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
BARBARA MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.
Sandra Vallieres
September 25, 2001
God Bless you Barbara. My husband Don and I were involved with the South Middlesex Big Brother and Sister Program when Barbara was its director. She was a kind, compassionate and loving individual. We will never forget her. She will remain forever in our hearts. The world has lost a wonderful person.
Judith Wright
September 21, 2001
God Bless you...I am sure you will be missed in Palm Springs...You are our angel now...
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