Barbara J. Skirry, 76, passed away surrounded by family at the Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin, Vermont on Friday morning, Sept. 16, 2016.
She was born the daughter of Elmer and E. Phyllis Austin on Jan. 19, 1940. She grew up in Northfield and graduated from Northfield High School.
Barbara’s career spans 37-plus years in the Agency Department at National Life Insurance Company, retiring as supervisor of contract and licensing.
Barbara loved spending time outdoors with her family; apple picking on fall afternoons with her grandkids, touring the farmers market to admire the sweets and the craft of artisans, and reading and relaxing on the beaches of Ogunquit, Maine.
She enjoyed watching and supporting her grandchildren in theater and sports. She was a strong supporter of the Central Vermont Humane Society, rescuing and caring for dozens of pets in her home.
Survivors include her children: Timothy Flinn and wife Charlene (Sanders) of Northfield, Sarah Lewenczuk and her husband, Jason Lewenczuk of Lunenburg, Massachusetts, and Julie Hale and her husband, Ryan Hale, of Kensington, New Hampshire; sisters Patricia Brockway and her husband, Richard Brockway, of Northfield, Lizabeth Kerin and her husband, Michael Kerin, of Northfield, Janice Spatz and her husband, Jurgen Spatz, of Oak Harbor, Washington, and Kathryn Austin, of Northfield; brother Ted Austin and wife, Kathy Austin, of Freeport, Illinois; six grandchildren, Emily, Amanda, Haley, Ava, Jackson and Ella, and many nieces and nephews.
The father of her children, Matthew Thomas Flinn, predeceases her, as does her brother, Ronald Austin.
Barbara is also survived by her devoted companion, Dr. Stephen Finner, of Barre, Vermont, with whom she enjoyed travel, theater and concerts, and caring for their pets over 14 years.
In keeping with her wishes, there will be no calling hours. The public is invited to funeral services this Friday, Sept. 23 at 11 a.m. at Northfield United Methodist Parish, 152 North Main St.
A private burial ceremony for family members will follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Central Vermont Humane Society, 1589 BT-14, East Montpelier, VT 05651.
https://www.timesargus.com/article/20160920/OBITUARIES/160929989/1005