Barbara Jean Saunders

Barbara J. Saunders - loving wife, devoted mother, and adoring grandmother - passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 13, 2025 surrounded by her family. She was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut on August 6, 1942 to her parents Edna Mae Callis and Bernard James Flanagan.

In her youth, Barbara spent her time as a starting basketball player at Notre Dame High School, playing the piano, and figure skating up and down her street in the winter. Barbara met the love of her life, Barry, while working as a telephone operator at his family's telephone company. They were married on Valentine's day in 1968, and spent their 57 years of marriage devoted to their children, traveling the world, and making cherished memories together.

Barbara raised her family in Trumbull, Connecticut, where she hosted countless events and dinner parties, bringing friends and family together. She effortlessly created an environment of elegance, graciousness, and heartfelt connection, embodying the poise and refinement of a modern-day Emily Post. As an avid golfer, Barbara joined Oaklane Country Club where she became the originator of the Oakettes, a group of ladies golfers affectionately proclaimed by the club pro as the "most fun" group to teach. Barbara took her game strategies home and applied them to board games, beating her friends and family at any and every game, particularly Scrabble which was all but impossible to win when playing with her.

Barbara's pride and joy were her grandchildren, and in return they loved her to the moon and back. Affectionately known as "Bubbe", she shared a special bond with each of her grandchildren, providing them with a constant source of love. The same could be said for her beloved dachshunds, who gave companionship and brought her a great source of happiness throughout the years. Barbara will be joyfully remembered as the heart and soul of our family, whose love, grace, and wisdom continue to inspire us every day.

Barbara is survived by her best friend and husband, Barry A. Saunders; her children, Mark Saunders and his wife Clara of Southbury, CT, and Stacey Dutra of Nantucket, MA; and her beloved grandchildren, Samantha Dutra and her husband Andrew of Austin, TX, Mikayla Saunders of Burlington, VT, Hannah Dutra of Venice Beach, CA, and her favorite grandson, Mitchell Saunders of Southbury, CT. She was predeceased by her brother, Thomas "Tommy" Flanagan of Stratford, CT.

At Barbara's request there will be no viewing or formal service, however, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Barbara's memory can be honored with a donation to Seymour Pink in Seymour, CT, or to an organization that is meaningful to you.

When tomorrow starts without me

And I'm not there to see,

If the sun should rise and find your eyes

Filled with tears for me,

I wish you wouldn't cry today

thinking of things we didn't say.

I knew how much you loved me

As much as I loved you,

And each time you think of me

I know you'll miss me, too.

When tomorrow starts without me,

Don't think we're far apart,

For every time you think of me

I'm right there in your heart.