Barbara A. "Barb" Strychalski

Barbara A. "Barb" Strychalski, 83, of Jamestown, passed away peacefully on comfort care at UPMC Chautauqua on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. She was born in Dunkirk, NY to the late Stanley and Dorothy Buczek on November 18, 1941.
Following high school graduation, Barb achieved her teaching degree from D'Youville College in May 1963, marrying the love of her life, Joseph, just one month later, on June 29, 1963.
Barb adored her years raising their daughter, Shelley; meanwhile, she never lost sight of her love for history and education. The Fenton Historical Society came to know Barb as their historical education director, where she spearheaded learning outreach throughout the public schools.
Entertaining family and friends remained an intrinsic passion. Barb's excellent cooking and baking were enjoyed by hundreds amidst her beautifully decorated home.
Traveling, too, was a staple of Barb's livelihood. She enjoyed family trips south, including to Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach, and, fondly, to the family beach house in Kure Beach, NC. Many thanks to cousin Cathy for the southern vacation home memories.
With Joe, Barb's travel expanse spread to countries all over the world. Memorable abroad trips included the Transatlantic on the QE2; throughout Europe, markedly granted a Papal Audience; South Africa; and Ireland.
Barb's stunning legacy lives on through her daughter, Shelley L. Adams of Jamestown; her grandchildren, Dr. Shelby (Bobby) Rauh and Garrett Adams, both of Jamestown; her great grandchildren, Jolie and Robby Rauh; her sister, Nancy (Tony) Jagoda of Fredonia; her brother-in-law, Dr. James (Dr. Irene) Strychalski of Dunkirk; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Besides her parents, Barb was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Joseph D. Strychalski, who passed away July 13, 2015.
In keeping with her wishes, no formal service or visitation will be observed. The family will have a celebration of life in the coming months.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Chautauqua Region Community Foundation: Delmore Garrison Newman Memorial Scholarship Fund, 418 Spring St, Jamestown, NY 14701, or to the Fenton Historical Society, 67 Washington Street, Jamestown, NY 14701. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Barbara, please visit our Tree Store.