Barry peacefully passed on February 12, 2026. He was born September 25, 1936 to the late Sarah (Ziskind) Poretsky and Louis Poretsky in Everett, MA. He was the beloved husband of the late Babette (Wise) Poretsky. He was the cherished father of Abbie Stanton (and the late Kenny Stanton) and Andrew Poretsky. Barry was the devoted grandfather of Jessica, Jillian, Andrew, Anthony, and Adam. He was the dear brother of Sidney Poretsky of New Jersey.
Barry was a graduate of the Everett High School Class of 1954, Massachusetts College of Art Class of 1958, and Boston University, Master of Education Class of 1959. He was also a veteran of the U.S. Army. Barry was an art teacher in the Chelsea Public Schools until his retirement in 1997.
Barry was an active member of Temple Tiferet Shalom and volunteered in many roles, including playing the piano for the Temple preschool. He spent many summers working at various summer camps, including Camp Menorah, where he was the adored arts & crafts counselor.
Barry was an avid tennis, racquetball, and most recently, pickleball player. He also was a lover of ballroom dance.
He was an enthusiast of art history and architecture. He spent many years as an art history instructor at Explorers of Salem. He was a lifelong learner and enjoyed taking many classes, including Spanish, French, and Italian.
He will be dearly missed by his nieces, nephews, family members, and many friends.
Funeral service for Barry will be held at Temple Tiferet Shalom, 489 Lowell Street, Peabody on Monday, February 16 at 10 AM. Interment to follow in Danvers. Donations may be made in Barry’s name to Temple Tiferet Shalom Preschool or the MSPCA of Boston.