Warwick, RI - Barbara T. (Weeks) Pugh, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, passed away peacefully at St. Antoine's Residence, North Smithfield, on Friday, March 6, 2026, at the age of 90. After meeting her future husband, Randall L. Pugh, at a dance, the couple celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary three months before his death on October 15, 2022.
Born on October 1, 1935, in
Providence, RI, to Robert N. and Doris T. (DeGrange) Weeks, Barbara graduated from Cranston High School in 1953 walking across the ceremony's stage into a life that would become a rich tapestry of creativity, dedication, and love. Throughout her years, Barbara made many gowns and dresses, including her own cherished wedding gown. An avid flower gardener, she found joy in nurturing her garden, bringing beauty and color to her home, which she lovingly and meticulously decorated for the holidays. Her passion for antiques led her on many joyful excursions with her husband, exploring antique shops and attending auctions, where they would often uncover hidden treasures.
Barbara's professional life began with The New England Telephone and Telegraph Company, where she served as a PBX operator. With specialized skills, she managed and directed incoming and outgoing calls, becoming a friendly reassuring voice for many who required assistance. She was also a switchboard operator for Sears, Roebuck & Company in their Midland Mall Store in Warwick. A classical violinist in her youth, Barbara played with the Rhode Island Junior Philharmonic Orchestra, proudly playing one of four handcrafted violins made by her father. Her journey with music began early, when at just seven years old, she received her first violin for Christmas-a gift which wasn't the doll she had hoped for.
Barbara is survived by her loving children: Elizabeth Ann Prunier of
Millbury, MA, Katherine Gaye Lombardi of West Warwick, Randall Lee Pugh Jr. (wife Paula) of Warwick, Jennifer Restivo (husband Jack) of Warwick, and Roland Labonte (partner Wendi of Richmond. She will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, Jason Lombardi (wife Jessica), Michelle Marchand (husband Keith), Randall L. Pugh III (wife Alyssa), Jack Restivo (wife Kelsey), Nicholas Restivo, and Alec Restivo (wife Antonia), as well as by her three great-grandchildren, Sofia, Hannah and Maxwell. She is also survived by her brother Robert Weeks (wife Jean) of Virginia.
Barbara's life will be celebrated in a private family service honoring her Baptist upbringing and with her family sharing some of their favorite memories and stories that reflect the love, warmth and kindness she brought into their lives. Following the service, her ashes will be interred beside her husbands in Highland Memorial Park Cemetery, Johnston.
May Barbara Theresa Pugh be remembered for her nurturing love, and the beauty she wove into the lives of everyone she touched.