Barbara C. Friedman

Barbara Carolyn Friedman, 82, passed away on October 9, 2024 with her loving sons, daughter and family by her side.


Barbara was born in Wynne, Arkansas on September 10, 1942. Raised by her mother, Ozella (Elizabeth), Barbara was an excellent student and loved music. She performed as a soloist for several events including her high school graduation. After graduating, she trained as a beautician and then entered nursing school. It was during this time that she met the love of her life Daniel, who was serving at Little Rock Air Force Base. They married in Little Rock and lived on base. After the service they moved to Dan’s home town, Jersey City, NJ. They eventually settled in Edison, NJ, where they raised their three children. After some nudging, Dan convinced Barbara to retire at the Jersey shore. They were happily married for 61 years, before Dan's death in 2023.

She was known to her friends, family and strangers alike for her genuine kindness. Barbara made a friend everywhere she went, always taking the time to remember a name and leaving people feeling special. She advocated for the less fortunate even when facing difficulties of her own. Barbara loved being a mother and housewife. She prided herself on being active in the lives of her children, volunteering in various roles such as Vice President of the PTA and Cub Scouts Den Mother. She cherished her grandchildren and could always settle them down with her comforting presence and playful sense of humor.

Once her youngest child was in school, Barbara began a new chapter in the working world. She was employed at JFK High School, Iselin,NJ and Merck Pharmaceutical, Rahway, NJ. Barbara then spent many years as a banking officer at Midlantic Bank, Iselin, NJ, and lastly at Nametre in Metuchen, NJ.

Barbara is predeceased by her brother Teddy Ray. Barbara is survived by her son Michael Friedman and wife Melissa, daughter Laura Spallone and husband Frank, son Clint Friedman and wife Danielle, sister Patricia, brother Martin, grandchildren John Desimone, Kailey King and husband Austin, Ryan Spallone, Taylor Viviani and husband Christopher, Summer Friedman, Ella Friedman, Layla Friedman, and Brianna Friedman. Great Grandchildren Maverick Daniel, Ava, and Saylor. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St Jude’s.

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