Barbara R. (Burkinshaw) Roby, 81, of Beverly, formerly of Salem, wife of the late Clifford A. Roby Sr., died with her family at her side on Wednesday, March 14, 2012, at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers.
Barbara was born in Salem on October 24, 1930, the daughter of Chester and Ruth (Clancy) Burkinshaw. She was raised and educated in Peabody, graduating from Peabody High School class of 1948. Following her marriage, Barbara moved to Salem, where she resided for many years before moving to Beverly in 1992.
In her early years, Barbara was employed at the New England Telephone Co., and later as a waitress at the Kernwood Country Club in Salem, leaving to raise her family. Barbara was a loving mother who devoted her life to creating a home for her family and later was so proud of her grandchildren and their accomplishments.
Barbara, an avid Red Sox fan, loved to go to Fenway Park. She also enjoyed shopping, going to the beach and attending family gatherings and spending time with the many friends she made over the years.
Barbara is survived by her children and their spouses, Clifford A. Roby Jr. of Beverly, Scott M. and Nanci Roby of Lynn, and Cheryl A. Roby and Bob Dowling of Danvers; three grandchildren, Courtney, Hannah and Arielle; a new great-grandson, Benjamin; a sister, Eileen Chmiel of Danvers; a sister-in-law, Diane Burkinshaw of N.H.; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Barbara was predeceased by her brothers, James Burkinshaw, Robert Burkinshaw and his wife Collette, and a brother-in-law, Alfred Chmiel.
ARRANGEMENTS: Her funeral will be held Monday, March 19, 2012, at 9 a.m. from the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 82 Lynn St., Peabody followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 260 North St., Salem. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited. Visiting hours are Sunday, March 18, 2012, from 3 to 7 p.m. Burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Salem. Please visit www.ccbfuneral.com for directions, online obituary and memorial guest book.
