Barbara Ann McBride

Barbara Ann Boegeman McBride, 86, died peacefully in her Glendale home Dec. 24, 2023, following a brief illness. Barbara was born June 6, 1937, in Kansas City, Missouri, and moved with her family to Phoenix in 1946, settling in Sunnyslope. She thrived academically and was proud of her leadership contributions at the new Sunnyslope High School, graduating in its second class. Barbara met Terry “Mac” McBride on a setup date when she was 16 and the two married in 1955 just after her graduation. In the next seven years, the couple welcomed four daughters to the family. She helped create a loving home for her girls, teaching them to be strong, independent women and encouraging their dreams. Barbara worked for many years at the State Compensation Fund where she managed worker’s claims and later helped small businesses secure insurance. After retirement, she and Mac set off on adventures throughout the world. She loved to travel so much that she became a travel agent to help others on their journeys. Throughout her life, Barbara dedicated herself to her Catholic faith, volunteering at St. Vincent de Paul parish and Bourgade Catholic High School and serving on the Ladies Guild at OLPH Glendale. She also gave her time to the Girl Scouts, Special Olympics and the Fiesta Bowl parade committee. Barbara was an avid teddy bear collector who also amassed a large number of casino loyalty cards! She was a fixture at the Arizona Air National Guard events, where Mac served for 42 years, building lifelong friendships along the way. She also was an active member of the daughters of the American Revolution and was proud that her ancestor, a member of Congress from 1791-1812, spoke out against the evils of the slave trade. Barbara loved to sing, performing in various choirs and with the Sweet Adelines. But her favorite songs were saved for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she loved with all her heart. Barbara never met a stranger and within a few minutes, you adored her, too. Her infectious personality and loving nature shone through. She was generous with her time and her care and made everyone around her feel loved and supported. Barbara is predeceased by her husband, Mac; her parents John and Joan Boegeman; and her great-grandson Sebastian James Williams. She is survived by daughters Michele Wiedower, Teresa (Peter) Kaczmarowski, Laura McBride and Pam McBride; grandchildren Phillip (Tabitha) and Marcus (Kelly) Wiedower, Daniel (Juan) and Amy (Sam Hickey) Kaczmarowski, Kelly and Alexander (Grace) Williams, Monica Huegel and Jeff (Kira) Greenfield; soon-to-be nine great-grandchildren; her brother John (Tori) Boegeman; sister Patricia Archer; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. A remembrance service will be from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 2, with a rosary to follow at Chapel of the Chimes, 7924 N. 59th Ave., Glendale. A funeral mass will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 3, at St. Jerome Catholic Church, 10815 N. 35th Ave., Phoenix, followed by internment at National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix.

Charitable contributions in Barbara’s name can be made to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul - Phoenix