Irving “Bob” Barrows, Jr., 87, of Paxton died Tuesday, April 14th in the Rose Monahan Hospice Residence surrounded by his loving family.
He leaves his wife of 65 years, Judith A. (Keefe) Barrows; his son, Brian Barrows and his wife, Christine of Princeton; two daughters, Kerry Wine and her husband, Richard of New Braintree and Heather Mullen and her husband, Michael of Bridgewater; his sister, Jane Doyle and her husband, George of Hingham; and six grandchildren, Jacob, Joshua, Ryan, Emily, Sydney, Alison, Emma and Charlie. He also leaves his best friend and brother-in-law, Gary Keefe. He was predeceased by his daughter, Linda Patnod.
Bob was born in Worcester, the son of Florence and Irving B. Barrows, Sr. and attended Worcester Academy. Barrows Hardware, a fixture in Worcester since 1914, became Bob’s life’s work when he took over the store in 1950, continuing a proud family tradition. What began as a business quickly became a reflection of who Bob was—welcoming, dependable, and always ready to lend a hand. In 1960, alongside Gary, he moved the store to its current location, further establishing it as a cornerstone of the community.
Under Bob’s guidance, Barrows Hardware remained a locally owned and operated business committed to personalized service. While the store evolved over the years to offer the best products and meet the changing needs of its customers, one thing never changed—Bob’s belief in treating people like neighbors, not transactions. He took great pride in ensuring every customer received not only quality goods, but also honest advice and a friendly conversation.
To Bob, the store was far more than a business—it was his pride and joy. He truly loved what he did, and it showed in every interaction. Whether helping someone tackle a major project or simply find the right tool, Bob found fulfillment in being of service to others. His warmth, knowledge, and sense of humor made every visit to Barrows memorable.
Bob will be remembered not only for the legacy he built at Barrows Hardware, but for the countless lives he touched through his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to his community.
His funeral is Friday, April 24th with a Mass at 10:00 a.m. in St. Columba Church, 12 Richards Avenue, Paxton. (Please go directly to church). Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Avenue, Paxton. His calling hours are Thursday, April 23rd from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. in O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, Worcester.