With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Barbara Lucille Sherwin of New Hartford, CT.
Below, the simplest tribute: the truth of a life as it was lived.
Barbara held deeply to the Methodist faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew her best.
What Barbara believed shaped how she loved.
BARKHAMSTED –
Barbara Lucille (Washington) Sherwin, 83, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 3, 2026 after a sudden onset of a very rare fungal infection in her brain. She was the loving wife of the late Charles "Chuck" Sherwin for 57 years. Born September 11, 1942 in Salisbury, CT; the daughter of the late George and Irene (Maxwell) Washington.
She graduated from Regional School #7 in Winsted, CT. Barbara worked for many years as a "custodial engineer" locally. She was very active at the Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church and an active member of the Barkhamsted Senior Center.
She was an avid reader, loved playing games, especially Spider Solitaire, and enjoyed shopping for deals. Prior to Barbara's passing, she shared that a favorite memory of hers was Lake Winnipesauke, NH. Her family and friends will remember her fondly for her infectious laugh and quick wit.
She is survived by her children, Debbie Sherwin and wife Kathy Beck of MA and Wayne Sherwin and girlfriend, Sebyl Anyogal of Barkhamsted; grandchildren, Tom Mcllroy and wife Lyndsey of PA, Heather Martin and husband Michael of Avon, Harmony and Gypsy Sherwin, both of HI; great grandchildren, Rachel and Hannah Martin and Bellamy Mcllroy; siblings, Ronnie Washington of Norfolk, Mary Kantor of Torrington, George Washington and wife Debbie of Barkhamsted, Al Washington and wife Kim of Torrington and Brent Washington of NYC; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by seven siblings; George Edward Washington, Jimmy Washington, John Washington, Bobby Washington, Martha (Washington) Namey, Ellie (Washington) Batky, and Cheryl Washington.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church, 93 River Road, Barkhamsted at 11 AM with a reception to follow. Montano-Shea Funeral Home, 5 Steele Road, New Hartford has care of the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in her name may be made to the church. Visit an online guestbook at montano-shea.com.
