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BORN
1943
DIED
2025
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Barbara Fennell Obituary
Barbara Alice Collins Fennell, age 82, of Stratford, beloved wife of the late Thomas A. Fennell, Jr., passed away peacefully at home on April 25, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Bridgeport on January 3, 1943, to the late William Collins and Marie Anne LaBrecque Collins, Barbara was a lifelong Stratford resident and a proud member of the first graduating class of Bunnell High School.
Barbara worked and volunteered in many roles over the years-at Avco Lycoming, General Electric, Saint James Church, and H&R Block-but her greatest joy was her family. She and Tom shared 51 wonderful years together, raising four sons in a home filled with love and laughter.
Barbara was the heart and soul of her family. She was a woman of incredible strength, patience, and unconditional love. To know her was to be loved by her. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome, valued, and cared for-whether it was through a warm hug, a home-cooked meal, or simply her gentle presence.
She is survived by her sons Thomas W. Fennell, Dean A. Fennell (Kristen), and Steven T. Fennell (Lisa); grandchildren Barbie, Bryan, Brandon, Britni, Devin, Brooke and Stephanie; and great-grandchildren Myiah and Jace. She was predeceased by her son Garrett A. Fennell and sister Kathleen Collins Craig and her husband James David Craig
Barbara also leaves behind her brother David Collins and beloved niece Tricia Craig Christensen (Eric) and caregiver Syllvie.
Barbara's legacy is one of deep love, unwavering devotion, and quiet strength. She will be missed every single day and remembered always as the light of our family.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Friends may call on Friday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Pistey Funeral Home, now located at 2611 Main Street, Stratford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 10 a.m. at St. James Church followed by interment at Union Cemetery. Please visit www.pisteyfuneralhome.com to express condolences.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Barbara Fennell
Sponsored by Pistey Funeral Home.
6 Entries
Alyce & Jim McDaniel
May 14, 2025
Dear Tom, Dean, and Steve,
We were very sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. We often reminisce the good times we had with Barbara and Tom. We believe they are now joined together in Heven. Please take care of yourselves this is a very hard time. Love. Alyce & Jim McDaniel
Kelly & Jack Wallace
May 5, 2025
Barbara was such a sweet lady, with a beautiful smile. It was always a pleasure to chat with her in passing in the neighborhood. Heaven gained an amazing angel.
Seeley Kellogg
May 2, 2025
Sending heartfelt condolences on the sad loss of Barbara. Love, Margaret & Seeley
deborah
May 1, 2025
Barbara was my neighbor and babysat me when I was a kid. Wonderful and generous person. So sorry she is gone.
Noreen
April 30, 2025
We are so sad to hear of the passing of your Mom! She was always so sweet and kind to all of the kids in the neighborhood. It made us all gravitate to your house to "hang out". First thing she would always ask is if we were hungry.
God bless you all during this difficult time.
Noreen Grindrod DeCiucis and the entire Grindrod family.
Carole (Adams) Weston
April 29, 2025
Fennell Family: my deepest condolences for the loss of your mother. I knew her and your dad from the Fire Dept. years ago. Your dad was a sweet guy, and Barb was a wonderful lady. She helped me with organizing the Women's Aux. for the Fire Dept. and was very helpful. May Her memory forever be in your hearts.
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