Barbara Shoener Gillis

Barbara Shoener Gillis, born on June 21, 1941, in Greensburg, PA, gracefully departed this earthly realm on January 26, 2026, in Braintree, MA. She was a sweet gentle soul, a name whispered with reverence, a woman to have a passion for sweet treats and a commitment to the life of all creatures great and small.

Barbara shared her life with her beloved husband, the late Francis Gillis, and her dog Midas—who was the apple of Barbara’s eye. Her love for animals was exhibited by her vast collection of stuffed animals that could rival any toy store in size. They say that love comes in many forms, but one can’t deny that Barbara poured her heart into every furry creature she encountered. She was known to summon chipmunks to her back patio, feeding them, she would rock them lovingly on her feet. She would Also capture stray bugs and relocate them outside, ensuring that not one critter ever saw harm at the hands of this gentle soul. In fact, she would drive captured mice clear to the marsh to give them a new lease on life, proving her commitment to the animal kingdom was as serious as it was sweet.

The youngest of four children, Barbara is lovingly remembered by her sister Helen (Shoener) Shalit from Quincy, as well as her dear niece, Barbara (Shalit) Kazmierczak and her husband Dan, hailing from Georgia. Her loving nephew William and wife Linda from Dorchester, 2 great nieces and cousin John Gardener and his wife Leslie. Predeceased by her brothers William Shoener and Robert Shoener.

She always brought the kind of joy that could lighten any party, creating laughter abundant for all reunions.

While Barbara may have been the doting aunt, her charm and humor were legendary, especially that twinkling smile capable of uplifting anyone who crossed her path. Many will tell tales of her sly looks that could erupt into inappropriate giggles, thereby redefining the word "timing."

With an enduring friendship that spanned over sixty years, Barbara and her dear friend Sue from the UK, it was a mutual affinity for travel, laughter, and shared love for adventure.

In her professional life, Barbara dazzled as a legal secretary at the prestigious firm of Testa, Hurwitz and Thibeault until retirement.She also had quite the reputation as a baker extraordinaire. She once took a Chilton Cake decorating class with her mother, subsequently mastering a knack for the sweet art that resulted in finger-licking creations. Barbara also loved enjoying the satisfying creations!

An aficionado of old movies, you could often find Barbara snuggled up on the sofa, tea or cocoa in hand, fully engrossed in a TMC classic flick— wrapped in a blanket to bring a smile to her face.

As the sun set on her life, we remember Barbara, as a woman who loved her family, and, let’s be honest, more desserts than a French patisserie could provide. She was much more—a vibrant spirit who cherished her family, adored her friends, and embodied a sparkle that reminded us all to embrace the sweetness of life. Farewell, dear Barbara; the world feels a little dimmer without your radiant laughter lighting the way.

Celebration of life will be held in Bourne in the spring.

See www.Keohane.com for directions and online condolences.