Barbara Elizabeth Salisbury, 96, formerly of Church Street, Greenville, died Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at Roger Williams Hospital in Providence. She was married to Russell Salisbury for 53 years until his death in 1999.
Born in Providence, Barbara was the oldest daughter of the late John and Vera Mason Sullivan. She lived in Providence before moving to Greenville in 2000. Barbara is survived by her children: Russell J. Salisbury and his wife, Donna of Attleboro, MA, James F. Salisbury and his wife, Marilyn of Johnston, William K. Salisbury of Smithfield and Nancy J. Lindsey of Providence. Barbara was the oldest of nine children. After the death of her mother, Barbara took on the role of second mother to her younger siblings and their home was a gathering place for many wonderful family celebrations. Growing up during the Depression, her family temporarily relocated to Nova Scotia to be with relatives. Barbara maintained the connection with her Nova Scotian relatives for most of her life.
In addition to her four children, Barbara has nine grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. She is survived by her sisters: Shirley Connors and Margaret “Peggy” Conlon, both of Warwick. Barbara is predeceased by her brothers Leo, James, William, Daniel and her sisters Vera and Patricia as well as her her son in law, Dennis Lindsey and her daughter in law, Elaine Salisbury.
Barbara was employed in the jewelry industry for many years before retiring. Barbara was most at home in her kitchen where she loved cooking and baking for her family and friends. She was a wonderful cook and an amazing baker who could feed a crowd in no time and for very little cost. Barbara’ s recipes are treasured and enjoyed by her family. Barbara was a devoted member of the Church of the Messiah and in later years, Grace Episcopal Church. She was actively involved in Russell’s Masonic Lodge activities. Her grandchildren fondly remember summer outings to the Masonic Youth Center. Barbara was an avid reader who shared her love of reading with her children and grandchildren.
Her funeral service will be held Monday at noon in the Anderson-Winfield Funeral Home, Rt 44 at Greenville Common, Greenville. Burial will follow in Highland Park, Johnston. Visitation will be Monday morning, 10:30-11:30am. The family is respectfully requesting that those attending the services wear masks. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to RI Community Food Bank, 200 Niantic Ave, Providence, RI 02907.
RI Food Bank