Barbara J. O'Donnell of West Newbury and formerly of Lynn,MA and Sandwich NH died Friday, April 17, 2020 after a brief illness. She was the wife of the late Francis "Sonny" O'Donnell, with whom she shared 28 years of marriage, and the late Chester (Chuck) Fisher, with whom she shared 34 years of marriage.
Born in Swampscott, MA, she was the daughter of the late Frederick and Margaret Champion. She attended St John's School in Swampscott and later graduated from Swampscott High. Barbara married Chuck in 1952 and raised her family in Lynn, until their retirement in 1985. She then moved to Sandwich NH. where she began the second chapter of her life. She loved her home and the many gardens she tended to with care. She was a member of the Sandwich Garden Club as well as the Sandwich Women's Club. She enjoyed her New Hampshire lifestyle and made many friends. Chuck passed in 1986 and Barbara met Sonny, who had also lost his spouse of many years. They fell in love and were soon married and shared 28 wonderful years of family, friends, and each other until Sonny's passing in May, 2016.
Barbara loved, appreciated and cherished her family. Barbara is survived by her daughter Kathie Leblanc and her husband David of West Newbury; her daughter Peggy Manter and her husband Dale of Byfield; and her son Michael and his wife Dianna of Lynn. She also leaves her three grandchildren Kelly, Rachel and Christopher and her two great grandchildren Trevor and Sarah. Barbara was also predeceased by her three brothers. Donald Champion of NH, Eugene Champion of CT. and Thomas Champion of MA. She also leaves many nieces and nephews.
The world was a better place with Barbara in it. She will be sadly missed, but lovingly remembered, by her family and many friends. The family would also like to extend a very special Thank You to Belinda who took such amazing care of our mother. We can't begin to tell her how grateful we are and how much her friendship meant to all of us, and especially to Barbara.
Due to the current state of health affairs there will be a private graveside service for Barbara’s family. A Celebration of her Life will be held at a later date. The Twomey, LeBlanc, & Conte Funeral Home 193 High St. Newburyport, MA 01950 is assisting her family with her funeral arrangements.
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