Barbara Farley

Barbara Farley (nee Buckley), born on April 22, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois, died peacefully on February 15, 2025. She was a radiant presence in the lives of many, best remembered for her loving, caring, and feisty personality. Barbara was very proud of her Irish heritage and possessed a remarkable sense of humor that brightened the days of those around her.

Barbara began her career as an elementary school teacher in Chicago, where she shaped the minds of young learners with patience and dedication. After raising her family she continued her professional journey, contributing her talents at Marquette University in various roles within the University Bookstore, Dental School, and the College of Communication.

She was a passionate lover of ballet, music, and the arts. Barbara was an avid reader, enriching her life through literature. She found joy in traveling with family, including several trips to Ireland. Barbara was deeply devoted to her family, cherishing every moment spent with them. Her commitment to her community was evident in her active participation and volunteer efforts at St. Alphonsus Church, where she fostered connections with friends and neighbors.

Barbara is remembered as the beloved wife of the late David J. Farley. She was a devoted mother to Sue Farley McKeon, David Farley, Jr., Mary Ann (Mark) Scheel, Michael (Sue) Farley, Daniel (Anne) Farley, and Patrick (Angela) Farley. She was a cherished grandmother to the late Caitlin, Conor, Shannon, Madison, Kyle, Sean, Megan, Sara, Erin, Brenna, Elena, Jack, and Clara, who brought joy and pride to her life. Barbara was a dear sister to Joan, the late Arleen, and Sharon. Barbara is further survived by loving cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Barbara’s legacy of love, laughter, and service will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the care team at Allay Home & Hospice for the kind and compassionate care given to Barbara.

Visitation will be held at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church (6060 W. Loomis Rd., Greendale, WI 53129) on Friday, February 28th from 9-10:45AM with the Mass of Christian Burial at 11AM. Interment to follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Barbara’s name would be appreciated to Children’s Wisconsin (www.childrenswi.org) or to St. Ann Intergenerational Care (https://stanncenter.org/donate).