Barbara Sweeney Francis

Heartfelt condolences to Al and family, and to the many friends of Barbara. Besides pioneering work in solar energy, Barbara's legacy founding the rail-trail-supporting nonprofit Norwottuck Network at the turn of the millennium continues into the future as the Massachusetts Central Rail Trail Alliance, working to create, complete, and sustain a vast network of rail-trails across the Commonwealth and beyond. We deeply miss her kind and thoughtful guidance.

I did not know Barbara well but she and I shared a passion for protecting the environment. We traveled together to an agricultural conference in Worcester several years ago and that turned out to be an enjoyable experience. She was bright, engaging, knowledgeable and had a lovely sense of humor. Sadly, we lost touch as her illness progressed but I think of her often. I want to extend my deepest sympathy to her family. She was a lovely person.

. My deepest sympathies go to Al and family at the loss of Barbara.

And I knew Barbara through her efforts on the board of Norwottuck Network. She was a force of nature and will be missed.