Barbara A. (Beardsley) Mansfield

Barbara “Bobbie” Mansfield, 93, passed away on April 8, 2022.  She was predeceased by her parents Leon and Mildred Beardsley, husband Russell Mansfield, son Thomas Mansfield and great grandson Owen Vatter. Born and raised in East Haven, CT, Barbara met Russell at the Southern New England Telephone Co. where they both worked.  After being married on June 4th, 1949, Barbara and Russell built a home on Loeber Place in North Branford where they raised their six children. She taught us the meaning of fairness and togetherness in our small home.  Barbara opened her door to friends, family and neighbors making all feel welcome. She embraced all the wonderful pets and creatures that made it their home.  She was especially fond of her rescue raccoon that roamed the house freely. Barbara and Russell were married for fifty-four years. Barbara enjoyed gardening, quilting, sewing, crewel work and embroidery. She mastered the art of Nantucket basket weaving, sharing her work with all. Barbara did her part during World War II proudly serving as a civilian airplane spotter. Barbara enjoyed driving with Russell across country and once returning with four puppies. Barbara had the ability to tell it the way it was with no regrets and still be your friend. She was very generous and proud of her grandchildren near and far. Barbara had a cache of phrases she often used with her favorite "waste not want not." Barbara and Russell moved to Nantucket Island as year-round residents in 1988. They both became very active in the community. Her favorite past time was to walk the paths through the moors with her dogs and pick wild blueberries.  Barbara volunteered at the local thrift shop where she made long lasting friendships. Barbara is survived by her children John and his wife Linda of Killingworth CT, daughter-in-law Paige Sessions of California, Robert of North Branford, CT, William and wife Eileen of Marston Mills, MA, Patricia and Gary O’Brien of Feeding Hills, MA and Kathryn and Ron Griffith of Clinton, CT.  She is also survived by nine grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren. The family would like to thank the caregivers at Stonebrook Village in Windsor Locks, Ct and the excellent care provided by Masonic Hospice.  Donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in her memory.

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