Barbara O. Beckett, 88, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at Yale New Haven Hospital. She was the loving wife of the late Leonard W. Beckett. Barbara was born on September 26, 1937, in Waterbury, CT, the daughter of the late Marion and Florence (Sousa) Oliver.

Barbara graduated from Boston University, where her 40+ year journey into nursing began and where she met her husband, Leonard. Together, they shared a passion for travel, exploring countries around the world, and enjoyed countless adventures. One of their favorite destinations later in life was Aruba and the Bahamas.

For years, she served in the Pediatrics Department at Hartford Hospital, where her compassionate care made a lasting impact on the lives of many children and their families. After retiring, Barbara loved spending her mornings at Peter’s II in Cheshire, indulging in breakfast with friends, and engaging in activities at the Cheshire Senior Center. Barbara was also a devoted communicant and volunteer at Saint Bridget of Sweden Parish, helping to donate time and food, exemplifying her kind heart and generosity.

Barbara loved the arts and attending plays and musicals, both on and off Broadway. She looked forward to family gatherings during holidays and birthdays.

She leaves behind her son, Jared and Jason Beckett, and her daughter, Amanda Studley, as well as several grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial in celebration of Barbara’s life will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Bridget of Sweden Church, 175 Main St., Cheshire, CT. Family and friends are asked to meet directly at church. Burial will follow in St. James Cemetery, Cross St., Naugatuck, CT. There are no calling hours and the Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Cheshire is honored to care for Barbara and her family.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Bridget of Sweden Parish -  175 Main St., Cheshire, CT 06410.