Barbara Jean Villano-Simpson passed away on January 6, 2025 at Brookdale University Hospital in Brooklyn NY following a lengthy hospitalization as a result of chronic, long term health issues.

Born in Schenectady on December 30,1947 to parents Marion Bushman and Archie Villano, Barb primarily grew up in the Duanesburg area, graduating Duanesburg High School and continuing her education to obtain her nursing license, where she then began her lifelong occupation of providing healthcare to countless patients at various medical facilities in the capital district before finally working as a private care nurse while she simultaneously raised her children and later, her grandson, Chad. While Barb took a personal interest in all her patients, she had a special place in her heart for the elderly and disabled and would affectionately refer to some of her private care patients as "my little man" or "my little lady" when she was heading out to see them.

Barb's great devotion to her faith was central to her life and she never wavered in her firm belief that whatever was happening, the Lord would see us through. All she had to hear was that someone was having a difficult time and she "put it on a prayer line" right away. Barb was a steadfast communicant of St Paul the Apostle Church in Schenectady and she deeply cherished her church community where she made some of her dearest friends. In addition to her love of church, Barb was a music lover who took great pride in her son, Scott being a guitarist/vocalist and she also would enjoy some very memorable evenings out singing karaoke with her daughter, Leigh Ann and friends.

In addition to her parents, Barb is predeceased by her brothers, Thomas, Timothy, Peter and Patrick, as well as some very dear friends.

She is survived by her children, Scott Simpson (Lisa) of Clifton Park and Leigh Ann Simpson (John) of Schenectady, her cherished grandchildren, Chad Simpson of Schenectady, Anna Simpson and Julia Simpson both of Glenville, and Taylor Hosier, her siblings Kim, Candi, Freda and Carl as well as her beloved honorary brother John Pierce.

A mass celebrating Barbara's life will be held at St. Paul the Apostle Church on Albany Street in Schenectady on Tuesday, February 4th at 11 am to which friends and family are invited to attend.