BARBARA HUGHES CRAIG

CRAIG, Barbara Hughes Passed away on November 18, after being cared for and showered with love by her family and compassionate caregivers. Barbara was born in the Bronx and raised in Providence. She lived a full and fascinating 96 years, in Dedham, Holden, Hope Town (Bahamas), and Worcester. Barbara was first and foremost a loving mother and grandmother, but was also a passionate teacher, a trusted friend, an accomplished sailor, an amazing cook, and an active volunteer. She was an avid Red Sox and Celtics fan and instilled a love of family traditions, including gathering for Thanksgiving and making gingerbread men for friends and family every Christmas. After retiring from teaching, she and Nick moved aboard their sailboat. They sailed to Hope Town every fall and back to New England every spring for several years. She integrated into Hope Town, volunteering at the library and the school, and teaching religious education. They then moved to Holden, where she continued to volunteer, was a loving caregiver to Nick, and fully embraced her role as "Nanny" to her grandchildren. Barbara had a special ability to deeply connect with others, listening to their stories and occasionally providing counsel. She was gentle but strong, quiet but fierce in her beliefs, and unceasingly generous with her time and love. Barbara was guided by her strong faith, her innate kindness, and her commitment to helping others. In every phase of her life, she enjoyed meeting people, developing meaningful relationships, and actively participating in her community. Barbara is survived by her children: Michael Craig, Peter and Tricia Craig, Jasper and Becky Craig, Mary and Bill Ritter, Jeff and Lorna Craig; and by her grandchildren, Matthew, Brian and Kailey, and Christopher Ritter, Seneca and Texiera Craig, Spencer, Harry, and Caroline Craig. Her husband, Nick; and their son, Dru, predeceased her; as did her sister, Florence Fortune. Our family is enormously grateful to the caregivers from Notre Dame Health Care and Worcester Home Care, who were instrumental in supporting her at home. On Friday, November 28, there will be a Calling Hour at 9 AM, and a Funeral Mass at 10 AM. Both will be in the chapel at Notre Dame du Lac, 555 Plantation Street, Worcester. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barbara's name to: St. Mary's Church, P.O. Box 2200, Jefferson, MA 01522 or Notre Dame du Lac, 555 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605.

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