Brenda E. (Rufo) Barnes

Brenda E. Barnes, age 78, a life-long resident of Needham died peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by loved ones, on August 29, 2021.  She was born in Needham, daughter of the late Americo and Flora (Giumetti) Rufo and predeceased by her only sister, Nancy.

Brenda graduated from Needham High School in 1961 and attended Chandler Secretarial School.  She was employed as a bookkeeper, office manager and billing manager most recently at North Hill Retirement Community of Needham.

Brenda’s life has always been centered around her family.  She loved to celebrate all the moments in life, big and small, and share those times with friends and family.  She especially loved being at her home in Little Harbor where family gatherings were held, and she made everyone feel welcome.  Always quick to laugh, she was fun to be around.

Brenda loved to travel.  She especially enjoyed her trips to her ancestral home of Italy and time spent in Florida visiting family.

Brenda also loved the quiet moments of just being present and enjoying nature; listening to the birds, walking on the beach, or photographing landscapes.

Brenda is survived by Carol Johnson, her companion of 35 years; her three daughters and their husbands, Stephanie and John Comisky, Diane and Brian Constantine and Angela Welch; grandchildren, Sara, James and Jason Comisky, Andrew and Ashley Constantine, Flora and Sean (Tommy) Welch; and her beloved dog Bocce.

Visiting hours will be held in the Eaton Funeral Home, 1351 Highland Avenue, Needham, on Thursday, September 2nd from 4-7pm.  Graveside services are private.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Brenda’s name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 309 Waverley Oaks Rd, Waltham, MA 02452 (https://www.alz.org/)

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