Obituary
Barbara (Kearns) Oliphant, 93, of Bedford NH, formerly of Somerville and Medford MA, passed away peacefully on January 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at Bedford Hills, in Bedford NH.
She was the beloved wife of the late George L. Oliphant, sharing 63 years of marriage. Barbara is survived by her devoted daughters, Charlene Hunter and her husband David of Bedford, NH and Michele Spinale and her husband Domenic of Manchester, NH. She is also a beloved grandmother to Michael Spinale and his husband Oscar Gonzalez of Malden, MA, Nicole Janosz and her husband Stephen of Manchester, NH, and Matthew Spinale also of Manchester, NH. Barbara was also a cherished great- grandmother to Domenic, Carter, and Nolan Janosz: a loving aunt to nephews, Donald, Lawrence, Andrew and Edward Kearns and niece Lisa Mosher. She was the sister-in-law of Paula Kearns of Florida and is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Barbara was predeceased by her parents Edward and Sarah Kearns, as well as her
siblings, Edward, Dorothy, Charles, and Donald.
Barbara, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, warmth, and laughter. A proud graduate of Somerville High School, Barbara enjoyed a fulfilling career, retiring from Harvard Pilgrim Dental.
Her kind heart and caring nature touched everyone she met. Whether in her neighborhood, at the supermarket, or at the hair salon, Barbara had an incredible ability to make friends wherever she went. She loved all creatures, big and small, and every neighborhood animal had a name and a place in her heart.
Barbara was a true pioneer of modern communication, embracing text messaging with enthusiasm, and was famously known as the “Emoji Queen.” Her quick wit, brave spirit, independence, and organized nature made her a joy to be around. But it was her ability to love without bounds that made her unforgettable.
She was cherished by all who knew her, and her love was returned tenfold. Mom, Mimi, Barbara, Babsy – you will be sorely missed. Your laughter, your love, and your friendship will always be remembered and carried in our hearts forever.
A funeral mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, February 5, in St. Clement Church 64 Warner St., Medford at 11:00AM. Calling hours will be held in the George L. Doherty Funeral Home 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) Somerville, on Wednesday morning prior to mass from 9:30AM to 10:30AM. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Services will conclude with burial at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Barbara’s memory to the Animal Rescue League of Bedford, 545 Route 101, Bedford, NH 03110