Barbara Clay Winkler

She was born on September 18, 1935, in Westerly, RI, the daughter of Lawrence Andrew Clay and Charlotte Marie Martin Clay.

Mrs. Winkler was actively involved at the Groton Senior Center for many years, starting as a Recreational Assistant, then in her retirement enjoying the types of activities she once coordinated. She started her lifetime of service to her community as a Red Cross volunteer after graduating from the University of Connecticut. She served as the Northeast Regional President of the Navy Wives Club of America, and went on to retire as Executive Director of the Navy Relief Society of Connecticut.

Mom was the master of all types of needlework and persued many other artistic crafts. Throughout her extensive travels, she always made room in her suitcase for her current project.

Barbara is survived by her children Timothy Winkler and his wife Jane of Kingsland, GA, Sue Barrett of Hansville, WA, and Larry (Charlie Brown) Winkler of Middletown, CT; grandchildren Timothy Winkler, Jr., Jeffery Winkler, David Barrett, II (Rebecca), Sam Barrett, Blake, Dillon, and Justin Winkler; great grandchildren Marshall Winkler, Alias Rowe-Barrett, David Barrett, III, Alexandra, Levi, and Anastasia Barrett, Mason and Breyson Winkler.

In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by her brother Lawrence Clay.

At her request, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.

We would like to express our gratitude to those who cared for our mother in her last days, particularly “Smiley” at Mystic Healthcare, and the staff of the Neuro Unit at Lawrence and Memorial Hospital in New London.