Raymond J Barber

Raymond J. "Ray" Barber, 88, longtime Worcester resident passed away peacefully with his devoted family gathered by his side Sunday March 1st 2015. Raymond was born in Northbridge one of three children of Napoleon and Sophie (Napluker) Barber. After high school, Raymond joined the U.S. Coast Guard, during World War II, serving his country proudly on both the East and West coasts. Upon his discharge in 1946, he met and later married in Rita Pellegrino in 1950. Together they began to raise a family for the next 55 years in love and dedication until 2006 when Rita passed away. Ray joined his daughter in son in law at their home in Shrewsbury where he lived for 8 years until he entered the Lutheran Home in Worcester. Raymond worked to support his family for 26 years at Norton Company until retiring in 1992. He then worked part time for another 15 years for the Big Y supermarket chain on Southwest Cutoff in Worcester. When Ray was younger he worked for G.E. Telecron and Lincoln Lounge. Raymond is survived by his devoted daughter and son in law, Cynthia J. and David F. Lebel, many nieces, nephews and extended family members. In addition to his wife Rita, Raymond was pre deceased by a sister, Helen Vincent and a brother Henry Murin. Raymond lived a simple hardworking life. He dedicated that life to his wife and daughter. He enjoyed fishing and loved animals, especially his pet cats and his daughter's dog Max. He also loved gardening with his wife. He was very handy; a man who could fix and repair most anything. Ray never hesitated to help someone that asked or needed help. He will be missed. Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours Wednesday, March 4th from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral will be held Thursday March 5th from the funeral home with a procession to Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church, 24 Mulberry St where his Mass will be celebrated at 10 am. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Our Lady of Mt Carmel Building Fund, 24 Mulberry St. Worcester 01604. The Barber family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of the Lutheran Home and St Vincent Hospital for the care, comfort and compassion they gave to our Dad during a difficult time.