Barbara Wall Harrigan

Barbara Wall Harrigan, 81, passed away on October 21, 2025, surrounded by the family who loved her with all of their hearts. Born on August 18, 1944, Barbara made it her life’s work to create joy, warmth, and unforgettable memories for everyone lucky enough to be in her world.

 Barbara was the glue, the heartbeat, and the laughter of her beloved family. She is survived by her loving husband, John Harrigan; her children and step-children, Jerry (Catherine) Cottone, Sherrie Ann Cottone, Kathleen Rifkin(Asha Mellor), Kristine (Dan) Dougherty, Karen Walsh and Kelly (Matthew) Seeman. She is also survived by her brothers, Bill (Jill) Wall and Ron (Tara) Wall, and many nieces and nephews who adored her and claimed her as their “second mom” including her sister June’s children: Michele Rees, Kara (Adam) Bierton, Rebecca Otterman, Tammi Dunn and Tara (Bill) Chase. Her adoring grandchildren, Michaela (Douglas) McDaniel, Katherine (Paul) Price, Chloe Cottone, Maya Cottone (Vaughn Repman), Jack Rifkin (Dana Goodstein), Luke Zuber, Jacob Zuber, John Walsh (Lindsey Wells), Allyson Walsh (Ben Sawyer), Caleb Seeman and Connor Seeman; and her great-grandsons, Wayne McDaniel and Levi Sawyer. 

She was welcomed into the eternity of Heaven by her parents, Jerome and Dorothy Wall, her sister June Bovee, her brothers Gary (Irene) Wall and her brother Tom (Paula) Wall, Sr.. She was also predeceased by her beloved son Joseph (Joey) Cottone Jr., who held a very special place in her heart. His memory remained a source of strength and comfort to her throughout recent years, and she carried his love with her always. 

Barbara loved the magic in everyday moments. She could talk for hours, committed readily to the completion of puzzles, and was always — always — ready to go shopping. She never turned down a deal, because “you never know when you might need it” even if everyone else knew she just liked the thrill of a good deal. She watched every game, every performance, every milestone — a loyal, loud, and loving fan in the stands of her family’s lives. 

Holidays were cherished by Barbie. Her famous apple pie, Christmas cookies, and strawberry-jam stockings were traditions her family will carry on with sticky fingers and full hearts. Her proudest tradition involved the love she put into making Grandma Wall’s famous dinner rolls. She loved traveling with John, going on ski trips, cruising, tailgating at Bills Games, Disney trips, camping with family and Alaska adventures. She also enjoyed Black Friday shopping, a competitive night of cards, helping any way she could, and being the official tender of the campfire. Barbara loved a house full of people, noise, food, laughter, and togetherness. If she could have bottled that feeling, she would have. She has been there for all of us, all those who needed her. Family and her closest friends were her entire world. 

Barbara also lived her values boldly. A determined advocate for democracy and women’s rights, she worked the elections year after year, never missing the chance to stand up for what she believed in. 

Perhaps, most importantly, was that she would always, and no matter what, sit with you for hours just being there-- whenever you needed her. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, humor, generosity, and the kind of unconditional love that fills a life to the brim. Her presence was home. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever celebrated by all who knew her. 

There will be a private burial service at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery November 8th at 11 AM. 3150 Mt Pleasant Rd, Piffard, NY 14533. Following the burial, family and friends may celebrate Barbie’s life at the York Sportsman’s Club, 2883 Craig Rd, Piffard, NY 14533. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Barbara’s memory to the Bethany House at 1111 Joseph Avenue Rochester, NY 14621.