Barbara Ann Whelan

Barbara Ann Whelan, 79, of Manchester, NJ, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 26, 2025. Born on October 29, 1946, and raised in Linden, NJ.

On December 2, 1967, Barbara married her beloved husband, James Whelan. In 1972, they moved to Forked River, where they built a home and raised their family together. Barbara’s professional life was deeply intertwined with her community; she served for many years as the administrative assistant at St. Pius X Catholic Church. Her presence was a constant for parishioners through her work with the CCD program and her tireless assistance to the church family.

In her retirement, Barbara found her greatest joy in the simple pleasures of life—spending quiet time with James, watching her grandchildren grow, and her regular outings to the salon.

Barbara is survived by her devoted husband of 58 years, James; her son, James T. Whelan; her son and daughter-in-law, Eric and Tracy Whelan; and her cherished grandchildren, Lucas and Avery Whelan. She also leaves behind her faithful feline companion, Daisy, who brought her immense comfort and joy. She is also survived by her brother, Paul and sister-in-law Geri Balicki, as well as many loving in-laws, nieces, and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Paul and Mary Balicky, and her sisters, Mary Petrusky (and her late husband Michael Petrusky), and Susan Leso (and her late husband Paul Leso).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in honor of Barbara’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org).

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