Whately, MA – On October 12, 2026, Barbara Ruth McDonough passed away at the age of 99. Born December 12, 1926 in Greenfield, MA, she was the daughter of Haskell and Wava (Kempton) Alger.
Barbara attended Sunderland schools and proudly graduated from Amherst Regional High School.
Barbara married the love of her life, William (Bill) McDonough in 1947 and lived in Greenfield before moving to Haydenville where they remained for 45 years prior to moving to West Whately in 2004. Together Bill and Barb had 4 children, Michele M. Marcoux (Pete) of Cummington, Delphine A. Thouin (James) of Easthampton, Brian E. McDonough (Toni) of Waterbury, CT and William C. McDonough Jr. (Laura) of West Whately.
Barbara was a proud grandmother to 8 grandchildren, Peter, Julie, Kellie, Dale, Bryanne, Destiny, Jordon and Brayden. She had 7 great-grandchildren, Eric, Aubrie, Corey, Hailee, RJ, Emma and Travis and a great-great grandson, Kade.
Those who knew Barbara will remember her greatest joys in life were spending time with family and friends, playing bingo and cards, going out to lunch, spending winters in Florida and of course being barefoot no matter the season.
Services for Barbara will be held Monday, October 19, 2026 at AHEARN FUNERAL HOME, 783 BRIDGE ROAD, NORTHAMPTON with calling hours from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. A Religious service will be held at the Funeral Home at 11:00 A.M. followed by burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Leeds.
Memorial Donations may be made St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Pl, Memphis, TN 38105 or any children’s charity of your choice.
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