Barbara Ann Gregory

Barbara Gregory, 81, peacefully passed away on August 19, 2024. Predeceased by her beloved husband Gilbert, she is survived by her daughter Jill Pecora, her husband Arsenio, and their children Vanessa and Mia; her son Jeff, his wife Danila, and their children Isabella, Brianna and Miranda; her son Jason, his wife Dyan, and their children Cameron, Olivia, Madelyn, Nathan and Owen. Barbara is also survived by her sister, Jayne (Semino) Corney. Born in Kearney, NJ, to Catherine and Howard Semino, Barbara resided in Closter for much of her childhood and was a member of the Northern Valley High School Class of 1960. After high school, Barbara attended William Paterson College earning an elementary teaching degree and taught at the Roberge School in River Vale, NJ. In 1965, Barbara married her high school sweetheart, Gilbert, and they made their home in the Township of Washington where they resided for over 50 years. Barbara loved children - her greatest joy was being a mother and grandmother. As a stay-at-home mother, Barbara was passionate about education and continued her involvement by first serving as class mom to her children’s classes, then as a Jesse F. George School PSO volunteer, and ultimately as a Westwood Regional Board of Education member for 23 years. She also tutored many, many local children profoundly affecting their educational pathways and helping them achieve success. Barbara was a passionate animal lover and was a devoted fur-mom over the years to Jiffy, Amber, Cali, Buddy, Lucy and Lucky. A social butterfly, Barbara had an abundance of dear friends - she would literally talk to anyone, anywhere. She loved her summer weekends on Lake Owassa, floating and boating. In addition, she loved telling stories to her children, grandchildren, and anyone that was a captive audience. Barbara enjoyed dining at her favorite restaurants, shopping, watching crime shows, reading, and singing Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline.” Barbara was a parishioner of Christ Lutheran Church for over 50 years. She was happiest when she was surrounded by family and friends. The family will receive visitors at Becker Funeral Home on Saturday, August 31 from 1-5. Barbara will be cremated, and the family requests, in lieu of flowers, donations in her memory be made to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia or Ramapo Bergen Animal Refuge in Oakland, NJ.