Barbara Kidney Obituary

Barbara G. Kidney passed away peacefully at her beloved home of 64 years in Westport, surrounded by her family on January 10,2024. She was 95 years old.

Barbara, the daughter of Frederick and Ida Galinat, was born and raised in East Hartford. After graduating high school, she completed two years of secretarial school. Shortly thereafter she married the love of her life, David Kidney. They were happily married for 62 years.

Barbara was a stay-at-home mom, her favorite job, until her youngest went to junior high. She then began a long career as an administrative assistant in the Westport school system. Barbara was well-loved by the students and teachers at Burr Farm Elementary and Kings Highway Elementary.

Barbara is survived by her daughter Susan and her husband John, son David and his wife Kim, and son Steven and his partner Carolyn. Her grandchildren, Megan, Caitlin, Jenna, Sara, John, Will, Michaela, Dana, and Emma, loved Grammy and she adored them. Her 16 great-grandchildren are all blessed to have inherited her joyful spirit.

Barbara loved her life and lived it fully, which may account for her beautiful smile and infectious laugh. She loved nothing more than to spend time with her large and growing family. Barbara's home was always open to her children's friends, and to all the kids who grew up in the Tamarac Road neighborhood. She was very community-minded and an active member of the Y's Women, the Senior Center, and the Saugatuck Congregational Church. After retirement, Barbara enjoyed travel with her husband and their numerous friends. Barbara was generous to a fault, a real people person, and not afraid to be silly and playful. Wherever she was there was sure to be laughter.

Barbara lived a long life full of family, friends, love, laughter, and purpose. Most of all. she was forever grateful.

A service celebrating Barbara's wonderful life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday January 20th at the Saugatuck Congregational Church. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.