Barbara Jean Harrington's Obituary
Big Rapids - Barbara Jean Harrington, age 87, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 3, 2017 with her husband of 67 years by her bedside. She had struggled with the effects of Alzheimer's disease for the past four years, but with the help of her family, especially her husband and her strong spirit, she was able to maintain her pleasant sense of humor and loving demeanor. She was born on March 14, 1930, in Fredonia Township, the daughter of George and Phila Duckham. She attended Fredonia Central School and graduated from Marshall High School in 1947. On December 10, 1949, she married Gerald J. Harrington and together they raised four boys, built three houses, and taught their children the value of doing your best in all things, working hard, and being respectful and compassionate to all. She always worked outside of the home, eventually retiring from State Farm Insurance as an underwriter. Barbara's interests were many and varied. Primarily those interests were centered around supporting her sons, her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She is survived by her husband, Jerry; sons, David (Anne), Greg (Kitty), Chris (Mary), and her "baby" Ben (Jenny); grandchildren, Nathan (Jenny), Adam (Sabina), Jonathon, Alexis (Glenn), Lindley (Craig), Katie (Brady), Maddy and Mallory; great-grandchildren, Grady and Cayson. She is also survived by her sisters, whom she loved dearly; Betty, Pat (Russ), and Kay; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother Ken, and nephew Doug. Barb loved and enjoyed her brothers-in-law, sisters-in-laws, their children, and many friends she made throughout her life, especially Virginia and Harvey Deigert. No service is planned at this time. If you would like to remember Barbara, please consider giving your support to any causes that help those in need. She will love you for it.
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