Published May 21, 2021
MELROSE — Barbara A. (Williams) Milligan, longtime resident of Melrose, died peacefully on Tuesday, May 18, 2021 at her home. She was 88.
Born in Charlestown on December 21, 1932, Barbara is one of nine children of the late James and Alice (Cook) Williams. She grew up in the Charlestown area.
Barbara met and later married her beloved Sinclair Milligan. They dated during his time in the Army, and after he was honorably discharged, they were married. Barbara and Sinclair would eventually settle in Melrose where they resided for many years.
Barbara’s first love in life was her family. She was devoted to Sinclair and adored their daughter Nancy. She enjoyed family trips to Burlington Vermont, Old Orchard Beach, and trips to Foxwoods, Mohegan Sun and Atlantic City.
She was an active member of First United Methodist Church in Melrose where she taught Sunday School for many years, and was an excellent crocheter who taught others how to crochet at the Melrose Public Library. Other interests included playing bingo Saturday nights, going yard sailing, cooking and baking, and gardening.
Her sweet, loving, and lighthearted demeanor will be missed by all who knew her.
Barbara was the beloved wife of the late Sinclair C. “Bunny” Milligan with whom she shared 55 years of marriage. Devoted mother of Nancy A. Haffty and her husband Richard of Stoneham. Loving sister of Stella Boyd of New York, the late Ethel Christopher, Dorothy Bower, Patricia Tuttle, James Williams, Jr., Richard Williams, Sonny Williams, and Kenny Williams. Also survived by her cousin Linda Cook and numerous nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends will gather in honor of Barbara’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Friday, May 21 from 5-7 p.m. All attendees are respectfully asked to wear face coverings and maintain social distancing. Funeral services will remain private. Interment at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose.
For online tribute or directions, visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
