In Memory of Barbara W. Sullivan

Obituary

Barbara W. Sullivan of New Hartford, NY, passed away peacefully on October 30th, 2023 at Wynn Hospital, succumbing to her battle with cancer.

Barb was born on July 26,1942 to Barbara & John W. Wnuk Sr of New Hartford, NY.

Barbara worked in the Oneida County Court system for over 30 years as a secretary to former Judge John R. Tenney. She loved her work, because it was an extension of her passion of genuinely getting to know people & helping them in any way she could.

Barb is preceded in death by her parents, and her partner of over 25 years, Sumner Forward. She & Sumner enjoyed spending time at “Alex Bay” on the St. Lawrence River, and traveling, especially enjoying trips to Mexico & visiting her daughter & grandchildren in South Carolina.

Surviving Barb are her brother, best friend and devoted caretaker for the most recent several months, John W. Wnuk II; her beloved daughter Lisa M Sullivan, her adored grandchildren Callan G. Curry, Joshua D. Curry & Callan’s fiance’, Jason D. Carranza, her beloved dog Maggie & cat Buddy, along with several friends & relatives.

Barb loved cooking & entertaining people, there was always room for more at her table. She was the person that would meet a stranger in the grocery store & invite them over for the holidays. Always generous with her time, her love & her laughter, she was loved by all who knew her. Her loved ones can take solace that she is likely planning a heavenly party while laughing & sipping some wine. She will be greatly missed.

She loved her garden & took great pleasure in watching the birds, squirrels & chipmucks cavorting about, while sitting on her porch reading a book. 

She had a love of animals & was always accepting when her daughter would bring home a stray dog, as with all things with Barbara, there was always room for more.
Barb loved to read; instilling her love of reading in her daughter & grandkids. She was fond of saying “There is always money for books!”

She may no longer be on this earth, her legacy will live on in all that knew her, as a kind woman with a heart of gold, quick wit and always finding the good in people & circumstances.

She was especially grateful to her nurses at The Pines in Utica & St. Elizabeth’s Hospital along with the compassion shown by the staff at The Wynn Hospital.
Per her wishes there will be a Mass & Celebration of Life in spring of 2024 when her ashes will be sprinkled in her beloved garden.

Barb loved animals, please consider a donation in her name to an animal shelter.

Arrangements are with the Friedel, Williams & Edmund Funeral and Cremation Services, New Hartford.

For online expressions of sympathy go to fwefh.com.