Barbara Agenes Ryan, 95, Passes Away Peacefully in NH

URGENT UPDATE: Barbara Agenes (Wojcik) Ryan, aged 95, has passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, at Warde Senior Living in Windham, NH. Known for her deep faith and vibrant spirit, Barbara’s legacy continues through her family and community.

Born on October 1, 1930, in Newmarket, NH, Barbara was the beloved daughter of the late Joseph and Alexandra Wojcik. Her family moved to Lowell, MA, when she was just six years old. There, she excelled academically, graduating from Lowell High School in the Class of 1948, where she was recognized as a Girl Officer and a member of the National Honor Society.

Throughout her life, Barbara was dedicated to service. Early in her career, she worked at Megowen Educator before becoming a social worker for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts at Tewksbury State Hospital, a role she held until her retirement in 1989. Her commitment to helping others exemplified her compassionate nature.

Barbara’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was a devoted Catholic and a regular attendee of daily Mass on Catholic television. She was a communicant of the former Sacred Heart Church, the Immaculate Conception Church, and St. Kathryn Parish in Hudson, NH. Her independence and zest for life were evident through her love of long daily walks and quiet moments spent reading.

Barbara leaves behind a loving family, including her grandchildren: Christopher Ryan and his wife, Kelly, from Concord; Kathryn (Ryan) Andjus and her husband, Matthew, of Westford; Erica DaCosta and her husband, Brian Harper, of Charlotte, NC; Stephanie (DaCosta) Naylor and her husband, Ken, of Londonderry, NH; and John Ryan and his wife, Jillian, of Hudson. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Kelly Ryan, son-in-law, Anthony DaCosta, ten great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Sadly, Barbara was predeceased by her children, the late Kenneth J. Ryan and Mary-Gail DaCosta, as well as her siblings, including Helen Sakalinski and several Wojcik brothers and sisters.

In lieu of flowers, Barbara’s family invites donations to the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, honoring her love for reading and lifelong learning.

A funeral service will be scheduled for a later date. Arrangements are managed by the McDonough Funeral Home.

This news comes as a poignant reminder of the rich legacy Barbara leaves behind, impacting countless lives through her unwavering faith and dedication to family and community. Her story resonates deeply, underscoring the importance of cherishing loved ones and the values that guide us through life.

Stay tuned for further updates on memorial services and tributes to celebrate Barbara Agenes Ryan’s remarkable life.