Barbara M. Persson

In Loving Memory of Barbara M. (DiRienzo) Persson
June 7, 1935 – June 25, 2025

With deep sorrow and hearts full of love, we announce the passing of Barbara M. (DiRienzo) Persson, who left this world peacefully on June 25, 2025, in West Palm Beach, Florida, at the age of 90. Born on June 7, 1935, in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, Barbara's life was a vibrant tapestry of love, creativity, strength, and unwavering dedication to family and community.

Barbara was predeceased by her beloved husband, Richard Persson, and her cherished daughter, Denise (Bob) Schmaltz. She is survived by her children: William Persson, Donald (Kathy) Persson, Debbra Underwood, and Gigi (Doug) Jury; her 16 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and one more on the way - each of whom she treasured beyond measure. She often marveled at how she came from humble beginnings to have such a large, loving family and spoke often of how blessed she felt. Barbara felt her life became more complete when she met her younger brother, Donald DiRienzo, whom she loved with all her heart.

Born and raised in Massachusetts, Barbara spent a short time in New York before finding her forever home in Florida in the 1950s. A proud high school graduate, Barbara was awarded an art scholarship and never stopped using her creative gifts. She lived life as an artist of many mediums - ceramics, writing, fashion, and more. Her career was as colorful and unique as she was: from working in hospitality at the esteemed Petite Marmite in Palm Beach to writing for a local newspaper, where she had the opportunity to interview celebrities and attend the Oscars twice, to restoring ceramic artifacts for the Norton Art Museum.

Barbara was a woman of many talents and infinite passions - but her gifts extended beyond art and creativity. She had a true gift for people. She met her longtime great friend of over 40 years, Jerry Colles, starting with a simple room rental. Her warmth and magnetic personality made her a pillar of the Royal Palm Beach community. For many years, she embodied the magic of the holidays as Mrs. Claus in the local Christmas parade, bringing joy to children and adults alike.

Central to Barbara's life was her faith. She was a devoted follower of Christ, raised in the Catholic Church before later becoming a Christian. She regularly attended services at Good Shepherd and filled her home - and her heart - with the word of God. It was common to find sermons playing on her TV, and her love of scripture was deeply personal. Her family has discovered over 20 Bibles, each lovingly filled with handwritten notes, prayers, and highlighted verses. Her relationship with God was steadfast and deeply rooted - a source of strength and peace throughout her life.

To those who were fortunate enough to know her, Barbara was more than a neighbor or a mother - she was everyone's mom. In the close-knit village of Royal Palm Beach, she was the fierce, loving matriarch who helped raise generations of children, not just her own. She offered guidance, structure, and love in equal measure, never turning away a child who needed a watchful eye or a kind heart. Whether you were a rule-follower or a rebel, Barbara saw your worth. She loved each child in the neighborhood as her own.

A small but mighty Italian woman, Barbara was known for her strong values, quick wit, and unwavering presence. She demanded respect but gave so much in return. Her sayings, her laugh, and her unmistakable look when she meant business are memories etched into the hearts of those who knew her.

Barbara's legacy is not only found in her extraordinary family or her creative works but in the way she lived: boldly, lovingly, and unapologetically herself. Her life reminds us that strength and softness can coexist, that beauty is found in the details, and that love - when given freely and fiercely - can leave a legacy that endures for generations.

She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

A Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Barbara at Lakeside Funeral Home & Cremation Care in Royal Palm Beach, Florida, on Monday, July 7th, 2025, from 11:45 am to 1:00 pm. Friends and family are invited to join in remembering and celebrating a life well-lived.
Following the celebration, Ms. Persson will be laid to rest at: Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery in Royal Palm Beach, Florida located at 10941 Southern Blvd.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Lakeside Funeral Home & Cremation Care, ensuring that Barbara's life is honored with the dignity and care she so richly deserves.

TO WATCH THE CELEBRATION OF LIFE CEREMONY FOR BARBARA PERSSON, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO ACCESS THE ZOOM LINK BELOW:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81222341436?pwd=ileuapzvXN4dyhgCAwy7XIup8H4Wla.1