Barbara Mae (Reynolds) Gage

UTICA – Barbara Mae (Reynolds) Gage, age 85, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, with her daughter and son-in-law by her side. Born in Springfield Center, NY, on October 17, 1939, Barbara was the beloved daughter of the late Bert and Margaret (Walters) Reynolds. She spent her childhood locally and graduated from Owen D. Young High School. Later in life, she was proud to continue her education, and at the age of 60, she graduated with honors from MVCC, earning an associate’s degree in applied science. A proud veteran, she answered the call to serve her nation as a U.S. Army nurse. In that capacity, she worked as an EKG technician and assisted in delivering babies when she was stationed at Fort Sill in Oklahoma. After her time in the Army, she held a technician position at Duofold but took time off to devote herself to raising her children. In her later years, she returned to Duofold, holding the same position for years, until the company’s closing. Upon graduating from MVCC, she held a jeweler’s position at Walmart in North Utica. She then went on to a position she was well suited for and gave her much enjoyment, working as a teacher’s assistant in a classroom for special needs children. She genuinely loved this time with her students, and it was a dream come true for her. Barbara was independent and strong-willed, yet seldom opinionated. She had a gift for seeing the best in people and the wonderful possibilities within them. Above all, she adored her grandchildren, whom she considered the pinnacle of her existence. She also found great beauty in nature and cultivated stunning gardens, filled with vibrant flowers and hearty vegetables. Resourceful and creative, she had a talent for making beautiful things with her hands and loved sharing her creations with others. Many family members were proud recipients of her lovingly handmade doilies. At one time, Barbara was a parishioner of the Methodist Church in Paines Hollow where she also loved voluntarily teaching Sunday school. Barbara is survived by her son, Colin F. Gage; daughter and son-in-law, Rachael Mae and Gerard Barberio; grandchildren, Logan Gage, and Molly Gage; Anthony Barberio and Julius Barberio; siblings and their spouses, Joyce Roberts (the late Gordon Roberts), Janice and Thomas Mayton, Raymond and Brenda Reynolds, Richard Reynolds (the late Judith Reynolds), and Robert Reynolds. She fondly remembered her sister and brother-in-law who preceded her, Beverly and DeForest Liddle. Her loss is also felt by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and many special friends, especially Carla Matthews. The Barberio family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Manzurul A. Sikder and his staff for their care and compassion; the staff at Charles T. Sitrin Rehabilitation and Nursing Center for their comfort and support; Dr. Ossama Khazaal for his valiant efforts; and the nurses and staff of Wynn Hospital—especially those in the ICU and palliative care—for their dedication and kindness. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 from 4:00-5:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Barbara’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence at 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Military Honors will be conferred by the U.S. Army. Interment will take place in Mountain View Memorial Gardens Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Barbara Mae (Reynolds) Gage

October 17, 1939 - August 6, 2025