Barbara Famiano

was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, to many during her incredible 83 years of life. She passed away peacefully in the evening hours of Friday, November 5, 2021, just one day following her 83rd birthday.

Barbara was born on November 4, 1938, daughter of Madeline Hartington and Alfred O’Connor. In her early years Barbara worked as a hostess and bartender in various establishments, she then went on to obtain her real estate license and sold Mary Kay for quite some time. In her later years, she worked as a nanny, a position incredibly well suited for her as she always had a special way with children. Her positivity and cheerfulness in the face of all she encountered in life was truly an inspiration to others. Even during her most difficult days, she was still arguably more pleasant and optimistic than others during their best. Doubtful that anyone can recall seeing her angry.

When Barbara entered a room, ALL eyes were on her, not only because she was beautiful woman but because she radiated true joy and happiness with her positive demeanor. Beautiful both inside and out. She was also known for her “hilarious cluelessness” which brought everyone to hysterical laughter (she was a good sport about it). Barbara loved parties and was most often the life of them. She was elated to entertain everyone with her outstanding singing voice, especially her children and grandchildren whom she sang lullabies and show tunes to as they grew up. Her only disappointment was evident when she lost her beautiful voice to a long battle with cancer, a loss for all indeed. She loved animals and was also an avid reader (though she couldn’t spell, and her pronunciation of certain words was enough to bring you to your knees with laughter, her included). Her love and warm heart will be carried on through her daughters, granddaughter, and great granddaughters whom she cherished beyond words. Whether it be in the quirky meals and snacks she prepared or remembering to not leave the house without lipstick or with chipped nail polish, she will be carried on in the daily lives of those who her loved her.

Barbara was predeceased by her sister Rita O’Connor. She is survived by her partner Kenny Middleton who she was lucky to find a deep love with later in life, sister Patricia Collins, daughter Sharon Famiano D’Amore, son in law Richard D’Amore, daughter Janet Famiano Highley and her partner Ronnie Asdikian, granddaughter Jessalyn Highley Cardoza, and great granddaughters Ellianna and Everly, as well as many nieces and nephews, and her beloved cat Sweetie Pie. She was loved by all and will be missed dearly.

Visitation is on Thursday from 11 am-1 pm in the Robbins Funeral Home, 2251 Mineral Spring Ave., North Providence.  A memorial service will follow at 1 pm.