Barbara R. McKenney

Barbara Rice McKenney, 86, of Chatham, MA, formerly of Somers, CT, and Manchester, CT, passed peacefully at home on Sunday, June 22, 2025. Born and raised in Manchester, CT, Barbara graduated from Manchester High School where she met her husband of 67 years, Richard. Barbara worked as an ER nurse at Bristol Hospital in Bristol, CT and later as a school nurse at Miss Porter’s School in Farmington, CT. Before finally retiring to Cape Cod 20 years ago, Barbara loved visiting Ridgevale Beach where she and her husband purchased a summer home in 1977 where they made many life-long friends. In addition to being an avid beachgoer, Barbara was a piano player and painter. She was famous for her annual 4th of July parties for the neighborhood, family and friends She also attended dozens of town parades and pancake breakfasts. Most of all, she was known for being a loving mother, wife and sister.

Besides her husband Richard of Chatham, Barbara leaves two sons Mark (Michaela) McKenney of East Taunton, MA and Matthew (Jonessa) McKenney of Stafford Springs, CT. Barbara also leaves her siblings Mary Ann (Jorge) Okhuysen of Houston, TX, and Regina (Anthony) Dowgiewicz of Timonium, Md. She was predeceased by her brother John Rice of Estero, FL (2023). She also leaves seven grandchildren, one great grandchild, and many nieces and nephews all who were very close.

Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend visiting hours Monday, June 30, 2025, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM at The Nickerson Funeral Home 87 Crowell Road Chatham, MA. A service will be held at the funeral home, Tuesday at 11:00 AM followed by an interment at People’s Cemetery, 200 Stepping Stones Rd, Chatham, MA.