Barbara Thurber

Barbara Thurber (nee Maslanik)

Barbara’s favorite times were found in her backyard sanctuary; great for an afternoon nap in the pool. Her second favorite escape was the Jersey Shore: she loved the beach, especially with her grandkids. Barbara was all about the holidays, every inch of her home decked out. She loved cooking for her family, but she never quite understood the concept of portions: she cooked enough to feed a neighborhood. The good news was that everyone had leftovers to take home. Her earlier years were spent in Camden, 28th and Westfield. Perhaps her love of swimming pools dates back to her teen years when her dad installed an above-ground pool in their backyard making it the hangout for all the neighborhood kids. Barbara was a popular girl and a majorette at Woodrow Wilson; famous for twirling a flaming baton. If you were in need, Barbara was that one person you could call to lend a hand: especially if it was for her kids. Earlier years found her working as an office manager, but she discovered her real calling late in life: Barbara was a babci (grandmother) for the ages.

She is survived by her husband, Thomas; her children, Amanda Stevenson (Craig), and Nathan; and grandchildren, Natalya, Navahna, Aiden, Atlas and Olivia; and her sister, Ruth Nash (George). She was pre-deceased by three brothers, Ronnie, Alex and Joe Maslanik.

Come celebrate 66 great years on Sunday, Dec 1, 2-4 p.m. at Daley Life Celebration Studio, 1518 Kings Highway, Swedesboro, and tell a great story about Barbara at the 4 p.m. storytime service. There will be a 2nd viewing on Monday from 10-11 a.m. with a religious service at 11 and interment to follow at Gloucester County Veterans Cemetery, Monroe Twp.