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Barbara G. McNeely, longtime resident of Madison, passed away on Feb. 13 at Yale New Haven Hospital surrounded by family. Barbara was born in New Haven on April 10, 1961, daughter of the late Mr. James Handy and Mrs. Leona (Vandewarker) Handy of Guilford.

She was the loving mother of Abigail (Anthony) Sawicki of East Haven, Amy May of New London, and Allyson (Sara) McNeely of Madison. She is also survived her three grandsons, Anthony Sawicki, Jr., and Hunter and Landon May; three granddaughters, Hannah, Haylee, and Sophia Sawicki; brother and sisters Gilbert (Louise) Worrell of Killingworth, Anna Allen of Clinton, and Paulina (Michael) Katz of Branford; and her beloved cat Princess, as well as extended family, coworkers and friends. She was predeceased by brothers Joe and Earl Worrell, beloved partner Clifford McNeely, and son-in-law Erik May.

Barbara graduated from Guilford High School in 1977, followed by South Central Community College, New Haven, for accounting. She worked as a school bus driver and trainer for more than 30 years in the town of Madison. She was employed at Stop & Shop as a cashier for 20 years. She loved all of her students and customers almost as much as family.

Barbara enjoyed crocheting, making blankets for everyone that she loved. She loved doing puzzles and word searches, taking walks, hikes, and spending time at the beach. Barbara was a huge lover of animals, always joking about having a small zoo in her home. Barbara spent a great deal of time at the downtown Madison Hose Company with her late partner, Cliff McNeely. She frequently reminisced of the wonderful times she had there.

Barbara’s greatest joy was her three daughters and six grandchildren. She spoke highly of her children with a great deal of pride and admiration. Barbara loved spending time with all her grandchildren, spoiling them every chance she got. She also loved spoiling her cat Princess.

Barbara was a significant presence and member of the community in Madison. She will missed dearly by those who loved her. From bus driving students for 30 years, to being a friendly face at Stop & Shop, she will always be remembered for her kind, caring nature and loving smile.

Friends are invited to a funeral service at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 24, in the First Congregational Church, 22 Meeting House Lane, Madison. Burial will follow in West Cemetery, 71 Jannas Lane, Madison. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Forgotten Felines, P.O. Box 734, Clinton, CT 06413 or the East Haven Animal Shelter, 183 Commerce Street, East Haven, CT 06512. Arrangements are in the care of the Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church Street, Guilford. To share a memory or leave condolences, visit www.guilfordfuneralhome.com.