Barbara A. Ryan

BARBARA A. (MASSARO) RYAN – of Woburn, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on November 17th at the age of ninety.

Born and raised in Woburn, Barbara was the devoted daughter of the late Albert and Anna (Tofuri) Massaro. A lifelong resident, she took great pride in her community. For over thirty years, Barbara served as the property manager of 59 Cambridge Road, where she was known for her dedication, strong work ethic, and genuine care for the residents she served. She retired at the remarkable age of 83.

Barbara was a woman of grace, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family. She always presented herself impeccably-stylish, polished, and often dressed head-to-toe in her favorite finds from Chico's. She loved music, especially the Eagles, whose songs reminded her of her late son, Paul, and she enjoyed live music, boat rides, and spending warm summer days at the beach with a margarita in hand. A loyal Patriots fan, she especially loved cheering on Tom Brady.

Barbara was the beloved mother of five: the late Paul Ryan; Steve Ryan and his wife Theresa of NC; Linda Shelley and her husband Barry of Salem, NH; Michele (Ryan) Mafera of Woburn; and Michael Ryan and his wife Lisa of York, ME; and their father, the late Paul Ryan. She was the cherished grandmother of Cara Petelle and her husband Mike; Ryan Shelley and his wife Lauren; the late Joseph Mafera; Cole Mafera; Ally Mafera; Erica Lee and her husband Tim; and Zachary Ryan. She was the treasured great-grandmother of Cali Petelle, Noah Petelle, Emmett Shelley, Callum Shelley, and Mollie Shelley.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Charles Church, 280 Main Street, Woburn, on Monday, November 24th at 11:30 a.m. Burial will follow in Woodbrook Cemetery. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to calling hours prior to the Mass, from 9:30–11:15 a.m., in the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn, MA 01801. Remembrances may be made in honor of Barbara, in memory of her late grandson Joseph Mafera, to the Boston Backpack Project.