Surrounded by her family, Barbara J Whelan died peacefully on December 6th, 2018. Barbara was born and raised in Newton and is the fourth child of Angelo and M. Carmella (Esposito) Annicelli. Barbara grew up on Adams St and later Lowell Ave, and graduated from Newton High School in 1945. Barbara was married to the late David C Whelan of Wellesley. They had four children David, Michael, Mark, and Mary Ann and resided in Needham Massachusetts for 41 years. Following that, Barbara resided in Franklin nearly 20 years. Her son Mark predeceased her in 2015.
During her working career, Barbara had several occupations, most notably bookkeeper and comptroller for the Diet Workshop Corporation in Newton. She also was self-employed as a bookkeeper and worked for a variety of clients in the greater Boston area. During her later years, she volunteered her time to the to the Town of Franklin and the Franklin Senior center.
For the last 18 years, Barbara resided in Franklin, MA in the wonderful community of Hawthorne Village.
Barbara was very active in her parish at St Brendan’s church. She served her church faithfully both as a Lector and Eucharistic minister. In addition, she provided support in many ways to several convents serving the sisters in the local area.
Barbara was an avid golfer, a great cook, and enjoyed the theatre and arts, particularly Opera.
Barbara is survived by her Brother Anthony Annicelli and Sister Eleanor Slamon. She was predeceased by her Brother James and sister Rita. In addition to her four children, Barbara was loving grandmother to 9 grand children and 15 great grandchildren.
We all mourn her passing but celebrate Barbara’s entry into the eternal life to be reunited with her loved ones where she can continue her passion for giving and helping.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend her funeral Mass Thursday Dec. 13th, at 10AM in St. Brendan Parish 384 Hartford Ave. Bellingham. Interment will follow at Newton Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, any donations to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America would be a wonderful way to remember Barbara.
We sincerely thank you.
David, Michael, and Mary Ann.