In Loving Memory of a Remarkable Woman
It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Barbara A. Lee who passed away on November 2, 2023 in her home at the age of 84. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, whose love and kindness touched the lives of many.
Born in
Elmont, NY to the late Henry H. and Josephine K. Hahn she was raised in the Catholic Faith. Her life was a true reflection of her faith marked by compassion, love, and selflessness and she found solace and strength in her daily prayers dedicating her prayers to interceding for the well-being and happiness of her family. Barbara had 2 siblings; an older brother, the late Richard Hahn-Elaine, and younger sister and best friend, Frances Jacobsen- Ken. She married her love the late Robert Douglas Lee in 1959 and together they had 6 daughters and 1 son; Debra Schultz, Barbara Onorato-Michael, Robert Lee, Jr.- Lolita, Josie Dull, Theresa Fisher, Jennifer McAvoy- Charles, and Jackie Cason- Steve. She also had an extended daughter who she loved like her own, Ginger Kennedy.
Barbara was a beacon of love and strength, her unwavering devotion to her seven children was a testament to her boundless and unconditional love. Her children were not just the center of her world; they were her world. She nurtured them with the utmost care, teaching them the values of compassion, kindness, and resilience. In return, her children showered her with love and admiration.
Her legacy of love and family values extended to her 19 grandchildren, each of whom cherished the time spent with their beloved Grandmother- Sarah Snider-Seth, Zachary Schultz- Jenni, Ellie Wood- Justin, Daniel Onorato-Lindsay, Amanda Onorato, Jeremy Lee, Danny Lee- Laura, Justin Key- Stephanie, Lucas Fisher, Lauren Fisher, Kristin Hicks- Jeff, Katie Templeton- Chandler, Abby Dull, Kayla McAvoy- Yassine, Charlie McAvoy- Kiley, Heather McAvoy, Holly McAvoy, Adrian Cason, Brooke Cason, and Amber Cason. She was an endless source of support, always ready with a warm embrace, listening ear, tickling hand, and full snack drawer. Her wisdom, love, and guidance will continue to inspire her grandchildren throughout their lives.
Her heart was not limited to her immediate family. She welcomed her 15 great-grandchildren into the world with open arms and an abundance of love. She found immense joy in watching these little ones play and run around, showing them the same love and compassion that was the cornerstone of her own life. She was also showered with love throughout her life from very special cousins, nieces, and nephews. She treasured her sister-in-law the late Dianne Coyne and her very special cousin Irene Chapman who stayed in touch throughout her life until the end.
Barbara had an incredible ability to love unconditionally. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth and laughter, where countless family gatherings and celebrations were held. She believed that family was everything, and she lived that belief each and every day. No one she met was a stranger, as everyone that met her felt her love.
As we say goodbye to her until we meet again, we remember her as a woman who left an indelible mark on all of our lives. Her legacy of love, kindness, and devotion will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her memory will be a guiding light, reminding us all that love and family are truly the most precious gifts in life.
The family will receive friends at McDow Funeral Home, 1701 West Main St.,
Waynesboro, VA on Sunday, November 5, 2023 from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm. A celebration of her life will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, November 6, 2023 at Blue Ridge Chapel Church of the Brethren, 19 Brown's Lane
Waynesboro, VA. Please join the family to honor and celebrate the selfless life of Barbara A. Lee.