Obituary: Barbara T. Neal, 79, of Branford

Obituary courtesy of W. S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home:

Barbara T. Neal of Branford passed away Saturday September 16, 2023 at home surrounded by her loving family. She was born June 6, 1944 in New Haven, daughter of the late Homer and Bernice Fenn Tefft.

She is survived by her son Harry Matthew Neal and his wife Amy T. Neal. She was the proud grandmother of William Noah, Thomas G. Neal and Catherine E. Chica and her husband Luis. She was the sister to Jacqueline Patenaude (Don), and their four children, Danny, Missy, Sue and Kim she was known as Auntie Bobbie the favorite aunt. She never forgot a birthday or holiday and always sent cards with a little something inside. She was predeceased by her partner, Michael Nair.

Barbara served the Town of Branford as the Assessor from December 1986 to August 2023. While she was always knowledgeable and fair, around the town hall she was better known for her overwhelming kindness & generosity. Barbara was known to keep stock of everyone’s favorite candy to share. She was especially proud of her team in the Assessor’s office and was proud of the deadlines they exceeded. Barbara loved spending time with her family, anything from big holiday gatherings to Sundays spent watching the birds and deer with her grandkids which brought her immense happiness. She enjoyed gardening, going for rides, shopping and had a love for cats and all animals.

Town Assessor for 37 years who was known for her overwhelming kindness and generosity, she loved family time, and all animals.

Relatives and friends are invited to visiting hours Friday evening from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the W. S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main Street, Branford. A private graveside service will be held by her family.

Barbara dedicated much of her life to rescuing and taking care of cats. In memory of her love and passion for these animals her family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to the Branford Compassion Club, 2037 Foxon Road, North Branford, CT 06471 or at branfordcompassionclub.org.