Barbara Jean Converse

Barbara J. (Sliney) Converse, 79, passed away Monday, March 16, 2026 at The HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence. She was the wife of the late Steven A. Converse. Born in Providence, she was a daughter of the late Thomas and Agnes (Allen) Sliney. Barbara was the beloved mother of Holly Converse and Bonnie Phalen and her husband Christopher; loving grandmother of Kelsie, Abigayle, Amber, Phoebe, and Jordan; devoted great-grandmother of Isla; sister of the late Thomas Sliney, Jr. and Carol Brothers.

She worked in the Warwick School Department for many years before retiring to spend more time with family. Devoted to her family, she handmade wedding dresses, baby blankets, and articles of winter wear over a lifetime of love. Her baking was outstanding, disappearing from the plate in minutes every holiday, Christmas being her favorite. Despite her favorite holiday being in December, she loved a good beach day or time in the gardens in the summer, a true Rhode Islander.

Barbara was an incredible woman, an inspiration to put your lipstick on to face the world and battle through your toughest days. A bright soul who would lend a hand or hug to anyone in need, warm and loving. Her contagious laugh and her electric smile, now missed by so many. Barbara loved all animals but had a unique affinity for birds, their cheery songs and colorful plumage never failed to bring her joy. In honor of her memory; wear something colorful on the hard days, enjoy a sweet treat, or just take a second to listen to the birds sing.

Her funeral service will be held Friday, March 20, 2026 at 10:00am in the Thomas & Walter Quinn Funeral Chapel, 2435 Warwick Avenue, Warwick. She will be laid to rest with her husband in the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery, Exeter. Her visiting hours will be Thursday, March 19 from 4-7pm.