Barbara Allen Ariano

Barbara Allen Ariano, aged 77, passed away at her home in Clayton, NC on February 23, 2022 surrounded by family. She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Anthony Ariano, her son Michael Ariano, and her daughter, Katherine Ariano. Also surviving are her brothers, James Allen of Wilmington, DE and Joseph Allen of Alpine, NY. Barbara was the only daughter and eldest of three children of James W. and Helene D. Allen of Alpine NY.

Barbara graduated from Odessa Montour Central School in Odessa, NY (1962). She received a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science from Cornell University (1966) in Ithaca, NY. She went on to obtain a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from New York University (1970). Barbara remained a life-long learner, and her thirst for knowledge was unquenchable.

As she entered the workforce as a young woman, the world of business attracted Barbara’s attention. Initially she worked in group reservations at British Overseas Air Corporation (BOAC) in New York City. Upon receiving her MBA she took a position with the New York Stock Exchange representing companies in upstate NY--the area where she grew up and which was very close to her heart. She became an active member of the Cornell Club in New York and welcomed many Cornellians to New York City.

Her marriage to Anthony Ariano expanded her business expertise to Private Sanitation within the boroughs of New York City. They lived in Rockland County, which was a convenient location to oversee and help manage her husband’s business. Over a period of nearly 30 years Barbara was involved in all aspects of the business, and even worked the sanitation route with her husband. During these years Barbara immersed herself in her family as well as serving as a volunteer and member of several Catholic organizations. Before leaving Rockland County for Clayton, NC, Barbara worked with a small startup statistical analysis company and with ARC of Rockland County where she progressively assumed more responsibilities.

Although professionally she was drawn to finance, Barbara had a great appreciation for the arts. Being the daughter of a pilot and nurse/stewardess, she had a lifelong love of travel. Her work with BOAC allowed her many opportunities to travel overseas, and she and her family continued to travel throughout her life. She set foot on six continents in her lifetime. Barbara also had a love of reading, opera, theater, a great musical mind and a wonderful singing voice. She belonged to a professional singing group in NY called “Harmony On The Hudson” and also sang with a barbershop quartet who traveled internationally for competitions.

Barbara was smart, strong, and insightful. As a caring mother Barbara always looked after her family, and all those around her. In all her undertakings, she formed numerous friendships, some extending from high school years and many traversing continents. Barbara, treasured by all, now returns to the Lord, where she joins many family and friends. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her, as she touched countless lives with her kindness, strength and hope.

A mass and viewing will be held on Wednesday, March 9th, 2022 at 10am at McLaurin Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on June 25th, 2022 at St. Marys of the Lake in Watkins Glen, NY followed by interment at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please send a memorial donation in Barbara’s name to one of the following:

• EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network)

o Please make checks payable to EWTN, note Barbara Ariano in the memo line, and mail to EWTN, 5817 Old Leeds Road, Irondale, AL 35210, or call and mention Barbara Ariano for your donation, or give online at https://sd.ewtn.com/ewtn-news/

• Duke Children’s Foster Care Clinic

o Please make checks payable to Duke Children’s, note Barbara Ariano in the memo line, and mail to Duke Children’s Development, 300 W. Morgan St Ste #1200, Durham, NC 27701 or give online at www.tiny.cc/DukeFosterCare and please designate Barbara Ariano’s name on your online donation.