April 1, 1944 ~ Dec. 11, 2024
Marlborough – Barbara E. Terry, 80, of Marlborough, MA., and formerly of Cambridge, died Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at UMASS Memorial Medical Center in Worcester after complications from heart surgery.
She was born in London, England, the daughter of the late William M. and Katherine (Fischel) Terry. Raised in Connecticut and New Hampshire, she was a graduate of Keene High School in New Hampshire. Barbara later pursued her passion for history, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Skidmore College.
Her professional journey was diverse and dynamic, spanning various fields. She worked at Simon & Schuster publishers in New York; Cunningham & Walsh advertising agency in San Francisco; the Berklee College of Music in Boston; and Digital Equipment Corporation in Marlborough, retiring in 1989. After her retirement, Barbara continued to work part-time for the Internal Revenue Service during tax season.
Barbara was an active and committed member of the Unitarian Universalist Church. A voracious reader, she belonged to several book groups, always eager to share and discuss ideas. Known for her independence and curiosity, she loved traveling, studying world history, and immersing herself in different languages. Her passion for the arts was reflected in her love for museums, classical concerts, and theatre.
In addition to her professional and intellectual pursuits, Barbara most recently volunteered and taught English as a Second Language to immigrants in her community. An avid Scrabble player, she was known for her competitive spirit and never liked to lose! She also enjoyed skiing and tennis in her younger years.
Barbara’s warmth, kindness, and engaging nature endeared her to those around her. Despite being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, she never allowed the illness to define her. She loved every season in New England, especially the vibrant colors of the autumn foliage during leaf-peeping season.
Barbara’s legacy is one of resilience, generosity, and a love for life. She will be remembered for her energetic spirit, intellectual pursuits, and the joy she brought to all who knew her.
She leaves her brother, Peter M. Terry (Laura Hollis Terry) of Southport, NC; two sisters, Joan E. Terry (Tom Ferriter) of Brunswick, ME and Susan A. Terry (Grant Patrick) of Westport, CT; seven nieces and nephews: Caitlin, Brendan, Morgan, Will, MollyKate, Maggy and Madison; a grand-nephew Connor and a grand-niece Emma.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
All are invited to sign Barbara’s online guestbook at collinsfuneral.com.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Collins Funeral Home, 378 Lincoln St., Marlborough.
