Barbara J. McEachern

Barbara J. McEachern – A lifelong resident of Somerville, passed away after a courageous life and a brief illness on Monday, March 2, 2026. She was 72 years old.

Born in Cambridge and raised in Somerville, Barbara was the beloved daughter of the late John F. and Madeline E. (Dooling) McEachern. For the last 2 decades, Barbara has been lovingly cared for at home by her devoted sister, Pauline, whose steadfast dedication to Barbara’s needs cannot be understated. Barbara was known for her big smile, sharp wit, and enthusiastic presence. Always up for the party, she preferred blue dresses, big earrings, bright lipstick, and longed to wear fancy shoes. Since Barbara had a live-in stylist in Pauline, she was enviably fashionable, adding her own special sparkle to the room at holidays and family gatherings. Halloween was an especially favorite time because she loved handing out candy and enjoying the neighborhood kids in their costumes. Barbara loved her television shows and never tired of watching The Golden Girls, The Love Boat, or MASH*, enjoying the familiar characters and timeless humor. Barbara also loved feel-good movies and musicals, from Sound of Music to Mamma Mia. She liked it best when you had time to spend watching it with her and enjoy some laughs together.

Beloved sister of John "Jack" McEachern of Stoneham, Ann Dunbar of Somerville and Pauline McEachern of Somerville. Devoted aunt of Brian Dunbar, Kristen Dunbar Clark and her husband Keith, David Dunbar and his wife Jamie, and Timothy Dunbar and his wife Josepine. Cherished great aunt of Brianna Hachey, Cameron Dunbar, Kaelan Clark, Declan Dunbar, Madelin Dunbar, Timothy Dunbar and Guiliana Dunbar. Barbara is also lovingly survived by many Dooling and McEachern cousins; her many friends at the MetroBoston Day Program she attended for over 30 years; and very notably, her awesome neighbors on Aldersey Street.

A funeral procession will be held in the George L. Doherty Funeral Home on Monday, March 9 at 9:00AM. Followed by a funeral mass celebrated in St. Raphael Church, 512 High St. at 10:00AM.

Relatives and friends are invited.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

Services will conclude with interment at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Barbara's name to United Cerebral Palsy of MetroBoston Day Program, 480 Washington St., Norwood, MA 02062.