Maureen Mcguiness Barron

FLORENCE-The family of Maureen McGuiness Barron of Florence is saddened to share her passing on May 16, 2025. Maureen was born on January 14,1931 to Desmond and Amy (Thomas) McGuiness in Washington Village, Tyne and Wear, England. She spent her childhood with sisters Sheila and Patricia, attended local schools, and had as normal a childhood as possible during World War II. Maureen went on to work in Fenwick’s Department Store in Newcastle, working in dress making and later in the hardware department. Through her apprenticeship she became an accomplished seamstress, a skill she practiced and honed for many years. Maureen met her husband, Francis (Frank) Barron, while he was in the U.S. Navy. They married in 1953 and moved to London, where he was stationed. There, Maureen enjoyed the theater and musicals, and spending time with friends. She truly loved living in London. During their time in London, Frank and Maureen welcomed their first son, Christopher. They moved to the U.S. in 1954 and settled in Florence, where the family grew to include sons Glenn and Stuart. As her sons grew, Maureen found employment at Lilly Library and then Forbes Library, where she also was a fixture on the popular Bookmobile, visiting many city neighborhoods. Maureen was an avid reader and enjoyed working in the libraries, as well as her enduring friendships with other staff. Maureen was a gifted painter, knitter and seamstress, often making many of her own outfits. She shined brightest through her skill and dedication as a gardener. She was proud of her yard with extensive flower beds and the addition of a pond. She had a particular ability to make roses thrive. She was frequently in her garden at first light, tending to the smallest detail and keeping the beds immaculate. Equally, she would savor the view with a book and her ever-present cup of tea. She enjoyed old movies and any program from the U.K. However, she most enjoyed a wide variety of music, ranging from standards to country. She had a particular affection for the song” Always” and would sing along whenever she heard it. She had a lovely voice. Maureen and Frank liked to travel around the US, with the east coast and Cape Cod as favorites. They returned to England several times, and in later years, she made a pilgrimage to Lourdes in France with her sisters. A wonderfully talented cook and baker, Maureen would prepare traditional English holiday meals. Her abundance of special cookies, cakes and miniature pies at Christmas made every year memorable for her children and grandchildren. Maureen was an elegant woman, always well dressed. She was funny and enjoyed invigorating conversation. She would often tell stories of growing up in Northern England, especially what life was like for her family during the War. She was much loved and respected by those who knew her and will be deeply missed. Maureen’s family extends their gratitude to the staff at The Gardens at Rockridge for the exceptionally kind care she received. Special thanks also go to the volunteers and activities staff for the musical therapy and sing-alongs that gave her so much joy. Maureen was predeceased by her husband, Francis, her son Christopher, and her sister Sheila. She is survived by her son Glenn and his wife, Ilse, of Florence, and son Stuart of Woodinville, WA, as well as grandsons Ian and Nathan Barron of Florence, and sister Patricia Willis of Stowe, MA, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Calling hours for Maureen will be held at Ahearn Funeral Home,783 Bridge Road, Northampton on Friday, May 30, 2025 from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. with a Religious Service at 1:00 P.M. at the Funeral Home. A private burial to reunite Maureen with her beloved husband at the Veteran’s Cemetery in Agawam will take place at a future date. Donations in Maureen’s memory may be made to Shriner’s Hospital for Children, Springfield Unit 516 Carew St. Springfield, MA.01104 or Northampton Survival Center, 265 Prospect St,, Northampton, MA 01060.