Barbara Russell Carr

Barbara ‘Barbie’ Jean Russell Carr passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday afternoon, 9/14. Barbie grew up in Skaneateles, raised her seven kids in Camillus with her late husband Buddy, and spent her later years in the Dewitt area. She was born on November 14,1941 to James and Lucy Russell in Syracuse and could be seen playing on their farm in Skaneateles with her siblings Jim, Trintje, Sue, Holly, Chris, and Winki.

She and Buddy wed in the summer of 1965 and immediately started their family in Camillus, having seven kids in nine years and becoming community fixtures in the school system, youth athletics, community clubs, and politics. After Buddy’s passing in 1985 she fully committed herself to providing a nurturing, safe, fun, family environment to her children Kelley, Bradley, Jeffrey, Holly, Amy, Brian, and Katy Sue. She dedicated her life to her kids and all of their endeavors, no matter where they were and what fortunes or misfortunes they were going through.

Her relationship with her fifteen grandchildren was magical. She was not only their Maama, but one of their closest friends and supporters. She would not hesitate to reprimand at the appropriate time if needed, but also loved spoiling them with treats and gifts. It was special to see how much fun they all had with Barbie at family gatherings.

She loved people watching and would not hesitate to introduce herself to just about anyone - on some occasions, becoming fast friends through previous acquaintances or life experiences. Everyone who knew her loved her and could not wait to see her again. Her warmth, charm, and sense of humor was endearing and lasting. One of her greatest qualities was the ability to laugh at herself. She lit up the room whenever she walked in and made you feel like you were the most important person in the world when she spent time with you.

She will be deeply missed by all of us that were fortunate enough to spend time with her and we know that there will be a large contingency of friends and family welcoming her at the Pearly Gates with open arms and big smiles on their faces.

Calling hours will be at the Burns Garfield Funeral Home on E Genesee St. in Syracuse on Wednesday, 9/17 from 3:00 – 6:00 pm and the funeral will be at the Immaculate Conception in Fayetteville at 10:00am on Thursday, 9/18.

In lieau of flowers, please send donations to the Upstate Cancer Center through the Upstate Foundation in honor of Barbara Carr. www.upstatefoundation.org