Karen A. Barry

Karen A. Barry, 70, of Rowley, MA, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on
Saturday, February 4th, 2023. She was lovingly cared for at home before being brought to Anna
Jacques Hospital in Newburyport, MA after a courageous battle with brain cancer.
Karen was born in Quincy, MA on March 12, 1952, and was pre-deceased by both her parents,
Gerard Hagerty and Theresa (Shields) Hagerty. She grew up in Danvers, MA, where she
attended school, later attending Salem State University and Northern Essex Community College
to obtain her nursing degree becoming a Registered Nurse.

Karen was a devoted nurse and would retire from Whittier Pavilion Hospital in Haverhill, MA,
after her diagnosis of brain cancer in 2017.

Following her cancer diagnosis, Karen embraced life to its fullest and sought to surround herself
with family, friends, and to continue to do the things she loved. She attended various concerts
with her husband, Bryan Barry, including seeing her favorite artist, Miranda Lambert. She also
achieved her bucket list dream of swimming with dolphins in Bermuda.

In addition, what Karen enjoyed most was spending time with friends and family, attending bi-
weekly dinners at Riverview Pizza in Ipswich, MA, and weekend dinners with her husband.

Karen was known for being loving, caring, and funny. She loved all animals including her family
pets and feeding the birds at her home which she made a routine. She was known for always
putting her family first and was proud of both of her children’s accomplishments in life. She
exuded strength when it came to her diagnosis of cancer and made a point never to dwell but
instead live her life to the fullest and do what she loved most.

“When you see something purple, think of me. I’ll be the sun on your back, the wind in your
chimes, and the music in your hearts”. -Karen

Besides her husband, Bryan Barry, she is survived by her children, Brendan Barry and Mary
(Molly) Barry, her brother Brian Hagerty, and her niece and nephew.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2023, from 1-4 p.m., at F. S. Roberts & Son
Funeral Home, 14 Independent Street, Rowley. A private celebration of life will be held in lieu of
a funeral per Karen’s wishes. In lieu of flowers, we ask for donations to be made in her name to
American Cancer Society and/or MSPCA.

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