Barbara P. Neely (Holthaus), age 92, of South Weymouth, passed away peacefully at the Atrium at Faxon Woods on Sunday, January 3rd, 2021 with her beloved children and caregivers by her side.
Born October 12th, 1928, in Boston, she was the daughter of Aloysius and Catherine (McLaughlin) Holthaus. She was raised in Dorchester by her uncle, Patrick J., and aunts, Margaret F. (Mama) and Mary V. McLaughlin (Maimie), after her parents' death. Barbara graduated from Notre Dame Academy High School in Roxbury in 1945 and received her bachelor's degree from Boston University, College of Practical Arts and Letters (PAL) in 1949. She enjoyed teaching art in the Boston Public School system for 19 years. In 1968 she married Francis (Frank) X. Neely Sr. From that point forward, her career transitioned to the roles of homemaker, wife, and mother. Barbara was happily married for 33 years until Frank's death in 2001.
Barbara's hobbies included traveling, listening to music, reading, painting, and assembling puzzles. She was a very social person and loved the company of others. Barbara thoroughly enjoyed family parties and get-togethers. Her gentle but infectious smile was familiar to all that knew her.
Barbara is survived by her three children: Francis X. Neely, Jr. and his partner Ron Parmakis of Quincy, Kathleen M. Geswell of Hanover and her Fiancé Michael Means of Hanson, and Brian J. Neely and his wife Pamela of Abington; three grandchildren: Edward J. Geswell IV of Hanover, and Caitlin and Keira Neely of Abington; one sister-in-law: Virginia Neely of Dorchester; as well as several nieces and nephews. Barbara was predeceased by her brother James J. Holthaus and his wife Alice of Rockland, her sister Mary C. Holthaus of Weymouth, and her nephew James Holthaus of Rockland.
Services for Barbara will be private due to the current viral crisis. She will be Interred at Holy Family Cemetery In Rockland. Donations In lieu of flowers may be made to the Alzheimer's Association by calling 800-272-3900 or going to www.ALZ.org.