A devout Christian who was dedicated to her family and friends
WAKEFIELD — Barbara Ann Hoffman, age 78, a lifelong Wakefield resident, died Monday, September 12 at the Winchester Hospital.
Born in Boston on June 26, 1944 she was the daughter of the late Arthur G. and Mary Caroline (James) Kierstead.
Barbara was raised in Wakefield and was a graduate of Wakefield High School, Class of 1962. She was known by all to be a “people person,” and for many years worked in retail sales where she built lasting friendships with customers and coworkers alike. Barbara always had an open-door policy for her friends, with someone always stopping by for a cup of coffee. She enjoyed taking walks around town with special friends, which always seemed to end at “their bench” on the upper common of Lake Quannapowitt.
Above all, Barbara was dedicated to her family and to her faith. She was a devout Christian and was a member of Branch Church of Peabody. She shared her faith freely and set an example of kindness, grace and generosity for her family. She was active in her church and participated in Life Group and was a volunteer greeter.
She was the beloved wife of the late David Hoffman, with whom she shared 47 years of marriage. She was the cherished mother of Kim M. Burditt of Wakefield and the late Jon D.S. Hoffman. She was the adoring grandmother of Kirbie C. O’Brien and Reegan E. O’Brien. She was the sister of the late Claire E. Johnson, Arthur “Jimmy” Kierstead, and Kenneth Kierstead. She is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews, and extended family and friends.
Her funeral service will be held in the West Church, 27 Johnson St., Peabody on Saturday, September 17 at 11 a.m. Visitation for relatives and friends will be held at the McDonald Funeral Home, 19 Yale Ave., Wakefield on Friday September 16 from 4-7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Samaritans of Merrimack Valley, a program of Family Services, Inc. 430 North Canal St., Lawrence, MA 01840.
