Barbara A. "Sharpshooter Barb" Strand

Originally from Wilmington, MA with ties to Plum Island, Ipswich, Haverhill, and Salem, NH, Barbara A. Strand passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, surrounded by her loving children. She leaves behind a legacy of grace, calm strength, adventure, and enduring love that touched all who knew her.
Born February 6, 1935, Barbara was the daughter of Robert Minchin and Muriel Cole Minchin. She grew up in Malden, MA, where she was known as a vivacious and lovely young woman. In high school, she earned the nickname "Sharpshooter Barb" for her remarkable accuracy on the girls' rifle team, often competing against boys-and winning.
Barbara was predeceased by her husband, Harold P. Strand Jr. She is survived by her children, Judith DeMellia and her husband, Michael DeMellia; Robert Strand and his wife, Annette Strand; Pamela Strand; and David Strand along with Kathleen Bottalico.
She was a proud and loving grandmother to six grandchildren: Tara DeMellia and her husband, Mark Roberge; Michael DeMellia Jr.; James Parker Strand; Laura Strand; Kristen Cook; and Olivia Strand. She was blessed with three great-grandchildren, too: Max Roberge; Jack Descoteaux; and Aiden Descoteaux.
Barbara is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins, and was predeceased by her sister, Carol Malcolm of Lynnfield, MA.
Barbara and Harold were high school sweethearts who began their life together in Malden before starting their family in Tewksbury andsoon settling in Wilmington, where they raised their children. She took immense joy in watching her children grow-whether on the playing field, on stage, or simply finding their way in the world. She was always there, steady and present, with a bright smile and a loving hug, and a warm meal always waiting.

Proudly a homemaker first, Barbara also had a career that she loved, working for the Gillette Co. in Andover, MA. At home, at work, and among her family and friends, Barbara was best known for her calm, confident, and deeply caring demeanor, and her hearty cooking. She carried herself with a quiet grace that brought a sense of ease and freedom to anyone lucky enough to be around her.
Barbara also had a bold spirit. She traveled throughout the world, embracing life with curiosity and enthusiasm. Among her many adventures includes skydiving, dog sledding, hot air ballooning, and an African safari-all a perfect reflection of her courage and joy for living.
She had a special love for cruising throughout the MA and NH Seacoastin her Volkswagen Beetle convertible. But it was Plum Island that was woven into the fabric of Barbara's life. She spent summers there as a child and later owned a small, cherished cottage that became one of her greatest sources of pride and happiness. In her later years, her greatest joy was getting a lift to the Island, looking out over the water, and placing her toes in the sand. Among her fellow senior living residents, she became affectionately known as "Miss Plum Island."
Barbara will be remembered for her steady grace, her joyful heart, and the calm, loving presence she offered so freely and authentically.
Her wish was to be cremated, with her remains to be spread along the shores of Plum Island. There are no planned funeral or memorial services at this time. A celebration of life will be announced later this spring.

In lieu of flowers, a charitable donation can be made in Barbara's honor to help beautify Plum Island. A memorial fund has been organized in her name, honoring her lifelong love and dedication to her most cherished place.

To donate by mail, send to:

Plum Island Taxpayers & Associates
8 Plum Island Blvd.
Newbury, MA 01951

To donate online,visit: www.plumislandtaxpayers.org