Barbara Jean Whittier Goddard returned home to God on December 18, 2024, at the age of 96. Barbara is predeceased by her loving husband of 71 years, Frank Goddard Jr. Together, they proudly raised seven children: Frank Stephen, David Michael, Robert Whittier, Richard Spencer, Thomas William, James Lloyd, and Mary Anne. They were then able to enjoy 17 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
Barbara was raised in Lynnfield, Massachusetts, graduating from Wakefield High School as Lynnfield did not have one, and graduating from Vermont Junior College. It was at Vermont Junior College that she met the love of her life, Frank, and made many special lifelong friends.
Barbara and Frank moved to Reading where they were active members of St. Athanasius Parish, square danced with several local clubs. Barbara was a well-known piano teacher, a member of the Reading Craftsman Club, and in the choir at St. Athanasius. Barbara loved having a big family, spending time with friends, knitting, reading, baking, and making cards. She loved to camp and considered this a special part of her life which enabled she and Frank to travel.
Barbara leaves behind her son Steve, her son Dave, her son Bob and his wife Lori, her son Richard and his wife Alice, her son Tom, her son Jim, and her daughter Mary and her husband Dennis. She leaves behind 17 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. She leaves behind her cousin, John Spencer, and many nieces and nephews. She will be missed by all of her family and many friends while always being remembered as a devout Catholic, a loving wife, and the matriarch of her family.
Funeral from the Doherty – Barile Family Funeral Home, 11 Linden Street Reading on Monday, December 23rd at 9am followed by a Funeral Mass Celebrating Barbara’s Eternal Life in Saint Athanasius Church, 300 Haverhill Street Reading at 10am. Family and friends are cordially invited to gather and share memories with Barbara’s Family on Sunday, December 22nd from 4-7pm in the Funeral Home. Parking attendants and elevator are available. Interment Wood End Cemetery, Reading.
In Lieu of Flowers, donations may be made to the Mission of Deeds or to Lazarus House by referring to the links below.
