Barbara M. Curtis

"South Hadley, Barbara (McCorkindale) Curtis, 93, died peacefully with her family by her side on Wednesday, February 15 after a brief illness. She was born in Holyoke, MA and was the daughter of Roy and Ruby (Newcomb) McCorkindale. She resided in Holyoke most of her life before moving to Loomis Village in South Hadley. Barbara was a graduate of the Walnut Hill Prep School in Natick, MA and then obtained her Bachelor Degree from Connecticut College. She proudly served her country in the Navy Women's Reserve better known as the WAVES during WWII. She was the office manager at Curtis Business Forms for many years before her retirement. Throughout her life, Barbara was known for her kindness and generosity towards others. Her extensive volunteering included leading a girl scout troop with her dear friend Betsy Whiting, and contributing her time to the women's shelter. She was devoted to her church All Saints of South Hadley, and to enriching the lives of her fellow residents at Loomis Village. She was famous for her hat knitting and during her life warmed the heads of over 1500 children locally and worldwide. Her family, friends and dogs meant the world to her. Anywhere that Barbara lived, her door was always open. Her warm and welcoming smile, her ability to listen and her wise counsel were a gift to every life that she touched. She will be deeply and forever missed by her children, Don of S. Hadley, Stephen and his wife Cheryl of S. Hampton, Judith Curtis of Deer Isle, ME, Cynthia Curtis of Sedgwick, ME and Gregory and his wife Carol of S. Hadley along with her 8 grandchildren, Kristin, Ashley, Bree, Matthew, Andy, Liz, Caroline and Ian as well as 6 great grandchildren. Her sisters, Rosamond Blizard of Yarmouth Port, MA and Charlotte Smith and her husband Bardwell of Northfield, MN along with many nieces and nephews also survive her. Besides her parents she was predeceased by her sister Ruth Ray and a brother, Donald McCorkindale. A celebration of her life is planned for the spring. Donations in her memory may be made to The Salvation Army. Beers & Story South Hadley Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements."