PEABODY - Barbara A. (Kirby) Reidy, 87, passed away on September 23, 2025 surrounded by her loving children, after a brief illness.

She was born on August 19, 1938, in Boston, Massachusetts to Alfred and Emily Kirby, the eldest of six children. Raised in Charlestown, Ma., Barbara was outgoing, independent, and determined to make her own way in the world. Immediately after high school, she enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and trained and served as an air traffic controller for military bases in Texas and Colorado — a role few women at the time had the courage or were encouraged to take on.

After her service, Barbara returned to Massachusetts, where she met Arthur J. "Skip" Reidy. They married and built their life together in Stoneham, Pocasset, and later Sahuarita, Arizona, where they raised four children.

Barbara was a devoted mother and a true role model, encouraging her children to pursue their education and life goals. She embodied generosity and joy — always ready to help others and quickly to share a warm conversation. Her infectious laugh was a familiar sound throughout her neighborhood. A lifelong learner and voracious reader, she also explored the arts through painting and fiber artistry, all while supporting Skip's career as a firefighter and paramedic. She furthered her own education as well, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UMass Dartmouth and a Master of Education from the University of Arizona after the family relocated west.

Her professional life reflected her deep commitment to helping others. She worked as a licensed counselor at the O'Reilly Care Center, the state of Arizona, and Gosnold on Cape Cod. Always on call, Barbara never hesitated to answer a late-night phone call from someone in need. She believed her purpose in life was to lift others up.

Barbara's generosity extended into every corner of her life. She took joy in noticing the needs and wishes of others, often buying extra gifts because she knew exactly who would appreciate them. Her greatest happiness came from connecting people and brightening their days with kindness and conversation.

In retirement, Barbara moved to Brooksby Village in Peabody to be closer to her children. There, she thrived — making wonderful friends, volunteering, mastering computer usage, and continuing to expand her circle with her natural warmth.

Barbara was predeceased by her beloved husband, Arthur "Skip" Reidy.  She is survived by her children and their spouses: Rick (Minda), Jeff (Sharon), Pamela Donnelly (Mike), and John (Christine); as well as seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. In addition, she is preceded by her brothers, Robert and Stephen and survived by brothers Richard, Craig, and Wayne.

ARRANGEMENTS: The burial will be private and memorial service, will be announced. Please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com for updated service information. Assisting the family is O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 167 Maple St., (rte 62) DANVERS. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Brooksby Residence Care Fund, 300 Brooksby Village Drive, Peabody, MA 01923 in Barbara's memory — a fitting tribute to her spirit of generosity.

Brooksby Village Resident Care Fund
Philanthropy Office, 300 Brooksby Village Dr, Peabody MA 01960