Catherine Barren

Catherine Marie Barren age 91, passed away peacefully, January 15, 2025 surrounded by her family. She lived a most extraordinary and blessed life. Born March 9, 1933 she was the 10th and last child of the late Daniel and Esther McCarthy of Erie, Pa. She was the last living member of the McCarthy clan from 403 Lincoln Avenue, a very large and proud Irish Catholic family from Erie, PA. As the youngest of 10 children, she revered her role as aunt/big sister to her nephews and nieces. She graduated from Strong Vincent High School and Mercyhurst College in Erie, PA. She met her husband, Daniel Barren, in Erie, Pennsylvania while he was attending nearby Gannon University. They were married in 1957 and raised 6 children together. She was Aunt Catherine to 29 nieces and nephews, Nana to 15 grandchildren, and Great Nana to 2.

She was a woman of unwavering faith who unselfishly loved her family. She always ensured that every child who entered her home was safe, healthy, happy, and full. She did this not out of any obligation, but because of who she was – a compassionate and caring person. It was not uncommon to have meals with extra settings and spontaneous guests. Her husband was a beloved teacher and football coach; she happily prepared and fed thousands of hot dogs, pizza, and homemade food to every football team, after every game, for over 30 years. Ever the entertainer, her Holiday parties were treasured, magical gifts of food, family, and friends. Her St. Patrick’s Day celebrations will be missed dearly, especially her grasshopper pie. Catherine truly made the world a better place.

Reunited and preceded in death by her husband Daniel J. Barren, sons Michael and Mark Barren, daughter in law Winkie Barren and grandson Christopher Barren. Survived by son John (Jana) Barren, daughter Anne Barren (Don Wheeler), son Brian (Kris) Barren and daughter Mary Lee Sprung (Barry). Survived by grandchildren Nick (Jessie) Barren, Pat (Melinda) Barren, Christine Brown (Sam), Jamie (Brie) Barren, David Barren, Andrew Barren, Danny (Lauren) Barren, Sarah Owen (Justin), Katie Petit, John Petit, Billy Barren, Brad Barren, Maggie Sprung and Caroline Sprung. Great grandsons Henry and William Barren.

Calling hours are scheduled for Wednesday, January 22nd at Schoedinger Worthington 6699 N High St., Worthington Ohio from 4-7 pm. A celebration of life Mass at St. Peter St. Joan of Arc is scheduled for Thursday, January 23rd at 11 am. A private burial for family and relatives of Catherine will take place Resurrection Cemetery. May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.