Barbara Ann Coughlin

Barbara Ann (Cobb) Coughlin of Norwood passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. She was 76 years old.

Barbara was born in Quincy, and was the daughter of the late Albert Cobb and Lillian (Lindholm) Cobb. Barbara was the loving and devoted wife to Paul Coughlin for 53 years. She was the devoted mother to Jennifer Ronan and her husband Edward and her daughter Meredith Coughlin and her husband Brad Sherwin, all of Marblehead. She was the adored grandmother to Eliza, Louise, Cameron, Rex, and Greyson.

Barbara is survived by beloved siblings Deborah Todd and her husband Michael of Trumbull, CT, and Albert Cobb and his wife Mara of Taunton, stepsiblings Linda Warner and her husband Peter Perdue of Jamaica Plain, and Steven Warner and his wife Ruth of Dartmouth and her in-laws Mary Coughlin, Julia Rakauskas and her husband George, Michael Coughlin, each of Norwood and Charles Coughlin and his wife Lucy of Canton as well as her much loved nieces and nephews. Barbara was also an adored mother figure to Daniella Valle. She leaves behind her dear friends Gale and Frank Ryan of Weymouth, as well as many close friends who will miss her.

Barbara and Paul had a marriage described by friends as ideal and one that all marriages should be based on. They met early in college, adored each other’s company and have been inseparable since. Paul and Barbara were truly happy everyday living a life of love and laughter and were always happiest just being together. Their entire world revolved around their two daughters, Jennifer and Meredith. Barbara was very proud of her daughters’ accomplishments, and she cherished her grandchildren who loved their “Gama.”

Barbara’s most special times were gatherings with family and friends. During the holidays, she spent countless hours ensuring that the décor was perfect, and all guests were treated with warmth, love and fun. Her knack for decorating was unparalleled. Her table settings were always a heartfelt effort to make everyone feel special and welcomed. She was the perfect hostess, the heart of our gatherings and the life of the party. Barbara had open arms for everyone, especially her daughters’ close friends who she loved as if they were her own.

Barbara was known for her green thumb and was devoted to family and friends to help them cultivate beautiful gardens. She spent many hours working, relaxing, and dining in her home garden. Barbara was a dedicated member of the Norwood Evening Garden Club and an avid participant in water aerobics at the Vanderbilt Club. She was fortunate to cultivate close relationships within both groups.

Barbara and Paul enjoyed many family vacations with their daughters domestically and abroad, and that love of travel continued into retirement with many trips with Paul. Always friendly and outgoing, combined with an amazing work ethic, Barbara truly enjoyed her career at Verizon where she thrived in many different positions throughout her time there.

Barbara was full of humor, fun, love, life and generosity and these qualities made her irreplaceable to those who knew her and loved her most. When you met Barbara, you knew she was truly a special human being. She will forever be cherished and respected by so many and will be deeply missed by all.

The Coughlin family welcomes loved ones and friends to celebrate Barbara's life at the Gillooly Funeral Home, 126 Walpole Street (Rt. 1A), Norwood on Monday, May 27, 2024 from 3-7 PM. Funeral Services begin from the Gillooly Funeral Home on Tuesday May 28, 2024 at 10 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Catherine of Siena Parish, 547 Washington Street, Norwood at 11 AM. Immediately following the funeral, there is a continuance of celebration of Barbara’s life at Olde Colonial Café, 171 Nahatan Street, Norwood.

Donations may be made in Barbara Coughlin’s name to The Ronald McDonald House 34 Chapin Terrace, Springfield, MA 01107 www.rmhc-ctma.org .