Barbara Jean "Barb" Galvin

DEERFIELD, NY – Barbara Jean “Barb” Galvin, age 80, a native of Oswego, NY was gently called home to Heaven on Sunday, January 25, 2026, carried on the wings of love by many cherished family members and friends who rejoiced in her arrival. Born on December 30, 1945, Barbara–known lovingly as Barb–was a graduate of Oswego Catholic High School and St. Elizabeth College of Nursing. Her lifelong dedication to learning and service led her to earn advanced degrees from SUNY Polytechnic Institute and Russel Sage College. Barb devoted her life’s work to caring for others and lifting those around her. Her distinguished career brought her to St. Elizabeth Medical Center, St. Luke’s Hospital, and Albany Medical Center, among others. She served with compassion, integrity, and leadership as a Registered Nurse, Nursing Instructor, and Senior Vice President, respectively. Through her work, Barb touched countless lives and formed friendships that endured a lifetime. Barb was welcomed into heaven by those who went before her–her parents, William and Mary (Smith) Galvin; her sister, Patty Robinson; her nephew, Brian Galletta; her brother-in-law, Gary Budd; and her dear friend, Marcia Martin–along with many other beloved family members and friends. The heavens shine more brightly as they celebrate her homecoming. While Heaven rejoices, Barb leaves behind a world forever changed by her presence. Dr. Gerard T. “Jerry” Capraro was the love of Barb’s life. Together for close to fifty years, their union was a blessing not only to one another, but to all who were fortunate enough to be included in their lives. They enjoyed travel, parties, hockey games, dinners with friends, family gatherings, and quiet evenings at home–treasured partners in every season of life. Barb’s greatest earthly joy was her family. She leaves behind her devoted sisters, whose bond reflects the true meaning of family: Mary Galvin, Rosemary Budd, Diane Galvin, Kathy (Gary) Stannard, and Terry (Jeffrey) Baum. Sisters were bound by unbreakable friendship. Her beloved nieces and nephews were among Barb’s greatest treasures, each loved deeply and cherished as her own. Barb also shared a lifelong friendship with the late Marcia Martin and her late husband Wayne, and was a second mother to their daughters, Mary Beth and Diane. The laughter, guidance, and love Barb shared will echo through generations and remain forever in the hearts of all who knew her. Barb gave of her time and talents for many years through her generous volunteer work. Barb was a wish granter with Make-A-Wish Foundation, connecting with families of sick children and giving them an opportunity to perhaps forget their illness for a moment and enjoy the experience. In addition, Barb generously spent many hours assisting at the Abraham House, allowing patients and grieving families the opportunity to experience a peaceful passing through compassion and love. Barb loved life and lived it generously. She was a teacher, a healer, and a friend to all. When you look up at the night sky, know that one of those shining stars is Barb–watching over those she loved, just as she always did. Barb lived her life in service to others, guided by faith and love. “For it is in giving that we receive.” – St. Francis of Assisi. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the dialysis team at Faxton Hospital for their exceptional care; to the compassionate staff at Wynn Hospital ICU West for their expertise and kindness; and to the Abraham House for providing comfort, dignity, and peace during a difficult time. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Barbara’s Memorial Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life will commence on Monday, February 2, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at St. Mary and Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 684 Jay St. Members of the Mohawk Valley Nurse’s Honor Guard will assemble for their ritualistic prayers and there will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of Mass. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barb’s name to the charities she held close to her heart: Make-A-Wish of Central New York online at www.wish.org/cny or the Abraham House online at www.theabrahamhouse.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the service. This obituary was lovingly composed by Barbara’s goddaughter, Diane LoGalbo, with much love and affection.

Barbara Jean "Barb" Galvin

December 30, 1945 - January 25, 2026