Obituary
Barbara J. Synan, of Somerville passed away on April 7, 2025. She was 85. Born and raised in Somerville, she was the cherished daughter of the late Patrick and Ellen (Hanlon) Whalen. She was the beloved wife of 58 years of the late James M. Synan. Loving mother of James (Colleen) of Leland, NC, Denise of Wakefield and Michael (Donna) of Lexington.

She was a loving grandmother to her 4 grandchildren, Timothy (Jessie), Kerry, Christopher and Jennifer. She is also survived by 3 great-grandchildren, Atticus, Faith and Daniel. She was the devoted sister of John of CT, Francis of Groveland and Lawrence of Somerville and the late Patricia Gosine, Helen Haneffant and James Whalen. She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and in-laws.

Barbara spent her entire life in Somerville and most of it on Walnut Rd. She enjoyed many lifelong friendships from growing up and later returning to Walnut Rd, attending St Anne’s grammar school and St. Joseph High School. Barbara retired from the Somerville School Department and had been the secretary at the Capuano School for many years and had many friendships from those years. For the last few years Barbara had lived at the VNA Senior Living apartments in Somerville and greatly enjoyed the new friendships with her fellow residents as well as the staff who created an inclusive and enjoyable environment. Her final months were spent at the Aberjona Nursing Center in Winchester and Barbara’s family would like to thank the staff who showed her great kindness and compassion.

Barbara greatly enjoyed family gatherings, and often spoke fondly of the old multi-generational Christmas Eve and Thanksgiving Night gatherings. She also greatly enjoyed road trips to the casinos, and with her beloved husband Jim would also scour every mall and store looking for a bargain. She will be missed by many.

All services were private.