Barbara Jean Harrington, 79, of Monroe, Michigan passed away peacefully, Friday, December 19, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 21, 1946, Barbara dedicated her life to her family, her faith, and her community.
A 1964 graduate of St. Mary Academy in Monroe she later attended Ray-Vogue School of Design of Chicago, Illinois and built a career as an interior designer, bringing beauty to countless homes and places. Her eye for design was matched by her commitment to preserving history and nature as evidenced during her tenure as President of the Monroe County Historical Society where she worked tirelessly with members of the Society to help establish the River Raisin Battle Field as a National Park leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
On May 24, 1969, she married the love of her life, Charles G. Harrington, beginning a partnership of love and devotion that would span over five decades. Together they built a life filled with warmth, laughter, and loving memories.
Barbara was an active member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church where she found fellowship and purpose and lived by the values of the church she loved so much. She also had a passion for helping others by performing numerous acts of charity. Barbara also had a passion for travel, exploring the world as a member of Nomads, a private travelling group, and was a voracious reader, enjoying everything from historical biographies to tantalizing fiction.
Barbara's community involvement spanned many years serving on numerous boards and committees including, among others, Monroe County Historical Society, the Monroe Downtown Development Authority, the Monroe County Community College Foundation Board, and the Monroe County Republican Party Women's Club.
One of her most delightful treasures was the wonder and magic of Christmas, which she celebrated with joy and tradition every year. Whether it was decorating her home, baking her fabulous Christmas cookies, or sending out personal cards, Barbara did it all with perfection and impeccable taste. However, her most cherished roles were those of mother and later grandmother.
Barbara will be sorely missed. She leaves us with a legacy to strive to do better, be kind to others, and live a life of compassion and love. Her presence will be sorely missed. As we mourn the loss of a remarkable woman, a loving wife, mother, grandmother and kind soul, we also celebrate the love, joy, and kindness that were the essence of Barbara's being.
Barbara is survived by her beloved husband Charles (Chuck); her sons Ralph (Michelle) and Charles Ill "Chip" (Kelli); her grandchildren Parker Harrington and Quinn Harrington; and Maxx Harrington and Chaz Harrington; and her sisters Polly (Ed) Shaffran and Lisa (Paul) Howey, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Ralph B. and Marris J. (Bender) Manausso.
In keeping with Barbara's wishes cremation will be held and a private funeral Mass is planned for her family. Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd. Monroe, MI, 48161, is assisting Barbara's family with funeral arrangements.
Memorial contributions are suggested to St. John The Baptist Catholic Church.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at
www.bacarellafuneralhome.com.
