Barbara Ann McGee

Barbara Ann McGee of Derby answered the call of the ocean to return to her place of origin, the greater universe--a place of peace, light, and eternal love, early in the evening on Monday, April 28, 2025. Entering this world on March 29, 1936 in Arlington, Massachusetts, she raised a family in Westford, MA, lived her later years in Derby, and departed from Maple Lane in Barton.

She was a gentle soul, remembered by all who knew her for her kindness, generosity, devotion to her family, acceptance of others, gardening skills (particularly flowers), straight talk, lightheartedness, wicked sense of humor, and a smile that would light up the room!

Barbara was a twin. Her other half was Bobby. Three siblings preceded her, David and Judy and Billy. Following Barb and Bobby were Jeanie and Charlie (a drummer). Her parents were Charles and Ruth Savage. She married her high school sweetheart, Clifford McGee, after he completed a stint in the army and military police. They had five children: Clifford, Cheryl, Chris, Charlie, and Conan (Jimmy). Once the kids were grown they moved to VT, as they both loved the outdoors.

Although she held a number of jobs, her primary responsibility was taking care of her son Jimmy, who was born with cerebral palsy. Not believing in institutionalization, she took care of him until she herself needed nursing home care. At the time the doctors didn't believe he would ever be able to walk, but he did! And, he made his needs known through sign language and some spoken words. Like her, he loves teasing and joking.

Her children have special memories of her. They taught her to drive later in life and she ended up driving a school van for special needs kids! Chris mentioned her love of spring. Jonquils, Peonies, and Forsythia were some of her favorites. The inner circle of her yard in Derby resembled an English cottage garden. Bleeding Hearts became her bane when they took over the flower beds in front of the brick house (the second oldest house in Derby), however. She taught a young daughter-in-law how to mother her children, cook, wash dishes, care for Jim, and was indeed like a mother to her. Barbara was the adopted mother of another, always inviting her for holidays so she wouldn't be alone. She loved company and welcomed all. One remembers a trip to Maine where her favorite lighthouse, Nubble Light, was viewed at sunrise, midday sun, sunset, and moonrise. Barbara loved the ocean, especially York beach! She also loved owls, country music (Kris Kristofferson and Waylon Jennings), Bailey's Irish Cream and Chinese fried rice dabbled with hot mustard on New Year's Eve, the April 19th parade on Lexington green commemorating the battle of Lexington, and the July 4th parade in Derby. Her family remembers the many afghans she crocheted for them. Having taught her daughter to crochet, it is now her favorite past time. Most of all, she is remembered for her warm smile and loving heart!

Barbara leaves behind many. Her husband Cliff, divorced, is now deceased. First son Cliff (married to Peggy, Derby Line) had four children: Kimberly, Scott, Jeffrey, and Sarah. Great grandchildren from Kimberly are Katie and Mia, and from Jeffery are Vincent, Paislee, Ezra, and Dominic. Sarah is expecting Colin. Barbara's Daughter Cheryl (Holland) had Robbie, Ryan, and Ricky Ludwig. A great grandchild from Ryan is Rogan, and from Ricky is Peyton. Children from Cheryl's marriage to John Thwaite are: Maggie, Gracelynn, Sarah, Chloe, Lauren, and Oakleigh. Great grandchildren from Maggie are Willow, Daisy, and Sawyer. Barbara's second son Chris (and wife Deede) reside in VA and have children Amanda (OH), Mike (CO), and Katie (AZ). A great grandchild Alex is from Amanda, and Katie has Hazel and Violet. Charlie (and Miki) had Randy, Emily, and Abi. Great grandchildren from Randy are Connor, Tucker, and Levi. Emily (and husband Cody Anderson) have great grandchildren Ivan and Maia. (Charlie's immediate family resides in NH.) Barbara and family love children!

All will miss Barbara and her place as a great gathering spot for holidays, barbecues, watching the total solar eclipse, and celebrating the milestones in their lives. But memories of her smile and love remain to warm hearts. Her spirit will forever be felt. Those are the gifts that tides cannot wash away.