Catherine E. "Olich" Barbieri

Barbieri

Catherine Eva (née Olich), age 88, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026, in Woodbury, New Jersey. Born on September 16, 1937, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she lived a life filled with love, devotion, and quiet joy. A proud graduate of West Catholic High School for Girls, Class of 1955, Catherine embraced her role as a dedicated wife and mother with grace and unwavering commitment. She spent the majority of her adult life nurturing her family and managing the many responsibilities that come with raising three children-Cathy, Maria, and Frank-in a lively household. Her home was always full of warmth, laughter, the smell of gravy, meatballs, braciole cooking, the sounds of Sinatra, and over the years, a good number of rescued pets.

When her children reached high school, Catherine began working part-time at Clover Department Store. There, she became known not only for her strong work ethic but also for the deep friendships she formed with co-workers Peg, Jean, Elaine, Lee, and others. Their camaraderie extended beyond the workplace into cherished social gatherings that brought Catherine much joy.

Her greatest love was her family. She shared 58 beautiful years of marriage with her beloved husband Carmen "Tommy" Barbieri. Together, they created a life rich in love and adventure. They raised their children with care and compassion and enjoyed countless joyful moments in their bayfront home in North Wildwood-a place Catherine considered a little slice of paradise. She delighted in beach days and sunsets by the water and treasured their travels to destinations such as Bermuda, the Bahamas, Italy, and the Grand Canyon.

Catherine's proudest title was "Grandmom." She poured her heart into every moment spent with her grandchildren: Siena, Savino, and Mia. Whether building blanket forts between chairs or watching Disney movies on repeat, attending dance recitals, softball games, or school events, she was always there with open arms and a cheering voice. Her love for them was boundless and deeply felt. She found joy in simple pleasures: reading classic British literature and Agatha Christie mysteries, tending to her garden, listening to Frank Sinatra and big band music, swing dancing, and celebrating Philadelphia traditions like The Mummers Parade.

Catherine had an eye for beauty in everyday life-the glow of a sunset, the crunch of autumn leaves beneath her feet, or the hush of fresh snow resting on tree branches. She especially loved harvesting Jersey tomatoes from her garden to share with those around her. Catherine's light shone brightest when surrounded by family and friends-hosting holiday gatherings, preparing meals with love, or sharing heartfelt conversations over coffee at the kitchen table. She was a good listener. Her presence brought comfort and joy to those lucky enough to know her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Carmen "Tommy" Barbieri; her parents John and Bertha Olich; and her brother, John Stanley Olich Jr. Catherine leaves behind a legacy of love that lives on through her children Cathy Costanzo (Savino), Maria Bakely (Chalie), and Frank Barbieri (Claudia); her cherished grandchildren, Siena, Savino, and Mia; her sister, Helen Barry, nieces and nephews; and all those whose lives were touched by her warmth and kindness. May Catherine's memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

Relatives and friends are invited to her VISITATION Friday February 13, 2026, 10:00AM to 11:00 AM at St. Jude's Roman Catholic Church- Our Lady of Hope Parish 402 S. Black Horse Pike, Blackwood, NJ 08012. Funeral Mass to follow at 11:00AM. INT. will be held private.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Catherine Barbieri's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or online at stjude.org.