1946
2022
MOUNTAIN TOP — Barbara A. Chamberlain, of Mountain Top, passed away into eternal life on March 6, 2022.
Born in Wilkes-Barre on Jan. 12, 1946, she was the daughter of the late Guy F. and Catherine Featherstone Simms.
She was educated in local schools and was a member of the first graduating class of the newly created Crestwood High School. She earned a bachelor's degree in English at Wilkes University, where she was editor of the college newspaper in her senior year. She earned a master's degree in English from Wilkes University as well.
As an English teacher, Barbara was employed for 31 years by the Wilkes-Barre Area School District at E.L. Meyers High School. During the last 13 years at Meyers, she was also the Director of Student Activities, where her duties included planning school assemblies, graduations and other related school functions.
Barbara enjoyed gardening, crocheting, domestic and international travel, art, music, and spending time with family and friends, especially her three grandchildren. She was also a voracious reader.
Her brother, Larry Simms, preceded her in death.
Her husband of 47 years, John C. Chamberlain, also a retired English teacher at Meyers High School; daughter Catherine Wotring and her partner Brian Lanham, of North East, Md.; daughter Ellen Pettenato and her husband Rob, of Clark, N.J.; grandchildren Tyler, Morgan and Parker Pettenato; brother Guy Simms and his wife Pat, of Nuangola Station; sister-in-law, Maureen Chamberlain, of Hanover Township; nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends will miss her very much.
Barbara's family is grateful for the compassionate care she received from the staff members at Geisinger Hospital, John Heinz Rehab Center, Fresenius Kidney Care and Allied Services Hospice.
Celebration of Barbara's Life begins Wednesday, March 9, 2022, with visitation from 4 to 7 p.m. at McLaughlin's, 142 S. Washington St. in Wilkes-Barre. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Thursday, March 10, 2022, in the Church of Saint Jude in Mountain Top.
Donations to St. Jude's Building Fund in Mountain Top, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or SPCA of Luzerne County are preferred and will honor Barbara's memory.
Share memories and condolences with Barbara's family at www.mjmclaughlin.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Len
November 24, 2023
Mrs. Chamberlain you were by far my favorite teacher ever! You always kind and always greeted me with a smile! You brightened my day with your friendly smile and your kindness! I will certainly miss you! Till we meet again!!
Len
November 24, 2023
Mrs. Chamberlain I'm so sorry to see you pass! You were my favorite teacher of all time! You always had a smile on your face! You always brightened my day with your smile and your kindness!! I will miss you!! Till we meet again!!
Jo Ellen (Flor) Guenther
April 19, 2022
Just heard of Barb's passing--heartfelt condolences to all her family. My Mom, Betty (Flor) Vieau kept up with Barb until her passing in 2010. She so loved that she was able to maintain contact with Barb--Gary and Dales visits to us after my Dad, Richard Flor passed away in 1970 meant the world to our family. Barbara was a lovely lady and was kind enough to contact me more recently to let me know that Gary wanted to connect with me. We honor her memory..
Charles Nudo
March 15, 2022
My sympathies to Mr. Chamberlain, and family. Your wife and mom was always so pleasant and nice to talk to. Rest in peace, Barbara.
Jeanne Prmatic
March 13, 2022
My condolences to John and the Chamberlain family. Barbara was always a lady and showed compassion for all. Rest in peace.
Jan
March 13, 2022
May the God of comfort bring the family peace.
Kevin O´Donnell Sr
March 11, 2022
Thank you. Your kindness will never be forgotten.
Juanita Eby Krieger
March 10, 2022
Mrs. Chamberlain was one of the finest teachers ever to teach at Meyers, as was her husband! I was blessed and privileged to have been their student. It´s been almost 50 years, but I recall them fondly, with respect, admiration and gratitude. My sincere condolences to all who loved her, especially her dear husband and children. She was a special lady and so beautiful.
Carol Polk Wheeler
March 10, 2022
When I am asked what teacher had the greatest influence on me in high school, I without hesitation state," Mr and Mrs Chamberlain! ❤..... I'm so saddened to hear of Barbara's passing. She was such a fantastic educator and wonderful person. Please accept my deepest condolences.
Donald D McFadden
March 9, 2022
John
Sorry for your loss.
Our kids remember Barbara fondly as a great teacher,
Donald and Sheila McFadden
Hon. Marty & Kathy Kane, Ft Myers, Fl
March 9, 2022
Dear John & Family: We would at this time like to extend our most sincere condolences on the death of your wife & mother Barbara. Our thoughts&prayers are with your entire family at this time.
Patty and George Paul
March 9, 2022
We enjoyed seeing Barbara when she visited Cape May and stayed at the Jetty. Prayers to all
Frank Wempa
March 8, 2022
John - I am truly saddened to read of Barbara's passing. Even though we didn't always agree as we worked together at Meyers, I really admire Barbara in so very many ways. She really made my job easier as she performed her student activities director's role superbly. I remember her as one of the top teachers at MHS. I can assure you that she will be in my prayers as long as I am able to pray. The same goes for you and your entire family. May God bless you.
Frank Wempa
Virginia Chwastyk
March 8, 2022
So sorry for your loss. I remember her as a teacher at Meyers. RIP Mrs Chamberlain
Suzanne L./Sec.Meyers Class´72
March 8, 2022
Our Heartfelt Deepest condolences Dear Family and Friends upon the Loss of Beloved Barbara .Her Bubbly Personality and Smiling Face made Her a Joy as She Graced the Halls of Meyers as a Wonderful Teacher and Mentor !
A Beautiful Lady inside and out she was the "Love of Your Life "
Mr. C. who will be greatly missed .
May Her Memory be a Blessing to All.
Peggy Russo
March 8, 2022
So very sorry to hear of Barbara´s passing!
Remembering all the awesome times we had together! She was such a beautiful person inside and out! Sending many Prayers to you all! RIP Barbara! Love you, Peggy Russo
Showing 1 - 16 of 16 results
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Mar
9
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
M.J. McLaughlin Company142 South Washington Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
Funeral services provided by:
M.J. McLaughlin Company142 South Washington Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701

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