Barbara C. Anderson, 77, of Gardner, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, with her two beloved sons by her side.

Born in Gardner on April 25, 1948, she was the daughter of the late Lauri and Lempi (Hendrickson) Anderson. A proud graduate of Gardner High School, Class of 1966, Barbara later attended UMass Amherst, where she was classmates with "Dr. J" Julius Erving. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Leisure Time Studies in 1970. Prior to her retirement, Barbara dedicated her career to bringing joy to others as an activities aide admissions director in several Worcester-area nursing homes.

In her youth, Barbara was a standout student and leader. A member of the Pro-Merito Honor Society, Biology Club, Foreign Policy Club, and Music Club, she also served as Co-Captain of the Gardner High cheerleading team, where she was admired for her spirit and kindness. She later served as the dedicated Program Director at the YMCA in Northampton, touching countless lives through her leadership.

Barbara lived life with a true sense of adventure. She held a special affection for the vibrant energy of New Orleans where she was happiest near the Mississippi River, finding peace in the sound of the riverboats passing by. Her trips to Bourbon Street remained among her most treasured memories. A lifelong fan of music and travel, she often reflected fondly on her time going to Woodstock and following her favorite band, the Grateful Dead.

Above all, Barbara's greatest joy was her family. Her two boys, Mark and Luke, meant the world to her, and her love for them was fierce, unwavering, and unconditional.

Barbara is survived by her two sons, Mark Abell and his wife Sue of South Egremont, and Luke Abell of Templeton; and her sons' father, Frank Abell of Templeton.

Funeral Services will be held Friday, February 20, 2026, in the Boucher Funeral Home Inc., 110 Nichols Street, Gardner, MA, beginning at 11:00 A.M. Calling Hours will be held Friday from 10:30 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. prior to the service.
Burial will be held at Mountain View Cemetery, Troy, NH in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Williams Syndrome Association, 243 Broadway Unit 9188, Newark, NJ, 07104 or visit their website www.williams-syndrome.org, Please reference "In memory of Barbara Anderson".