Barbara Ann Jaras

Barbara Ann Jaras will be remembered for her quick wit, sharp sarcasm, and caring smile. She embodied wisdom, strength, stubborn determination, compassion, love, and kindness. Her presence made the world around her fuller, brighter, and better.

She spent most of her life in Connecticut before moving to South Carolina to leave behind the snow and cold. Music was one of her great loves. She attended the Hartt School of Music, where she studied bassoon and sang - a reflection of the creativity and passion she carried throughout her life.

Barbara was endlessly resourceful and creative. Over the years, she made and sold handmade crafts, designed and baked wedding cakes, sewed wedding dresses, catered events, and worked for a photography studio. Whatever she set her mind to, she did with determination and pride. She had a gift for making beautiful things - and beautiful memories.

The funny, surprising, and tender moments she shared will live on in all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Al Jaras, who passed away in 2004.

She is survived by her daughter, Alanna Jaras-DeDominic; Alanna's children and grandchildren; and her daughter, Victoria Jaras and Victoria's husband, Corey Cass.

After a courageous three-year battle with cancer, Barbara passed knowing she had done all she could, with family and friends by her side and with her in spirit.

Per her wishes, there will be no funeral service. Arrangements are under the direction of the John J. Ferry & Sons Funeral Home, 88 East Main Street, Meriden, CT 06450. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice in her memory.

Momma, I hope there is a bike waiting for you. And, yes, the magnolias are blooming.