She was born in Park Slope, Brooklyn on January 25, 1936, part of a large, warm Irish family of aunts, uncles, and cousins. Her mother, Anastasia Meyler Meurlin was an administrator at Kings County Hospital. Her father, Neil Meurlin, a quiet, loving, decorated WWI veteran, worked for the gas company. Barbara’s aunts, who were professional women long before this was a common thing, spent time with her and influenced her greatly throughout her life.
After Barbara graduated from high school, she worked as a secretary until she met and married Joseph Mansfield, a career Navy man. Joe retired from the Navy and became an ironworker in New York City. They had four children together: Patricia, Neil, Nancy, and Kim. After their marriage ended, Barbara was a corporate activities director for the Rockefeller Group for 20 years.
Until almost the end of her life, Barbara was a whirlwind of activity. She was constantly in motion: warm, outgoing, making new friends, always curious, active, delighted to host or attend a party for friends and family. She loved to travel; her last cruise took place was only weeks before her death. She had many devoted friends.
Barbara is survived by her children, Patricia Mansfield, Neil Mansfield, his wife, Priscilla Mansfield, Nancy Mansfield, her husband, Joseph Mansfield, Kim Geraci, and her grandchildren, Erik van Os, Isabella Geraci, Sophia Geraci, and Victor Geraci. Barbara is predeceased by her longtime companion, Leif Nordgaard.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s Shrine in Chicago.
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