Barbara “Barb” Joyce Petcen, 84, longtime resident of Hatfield, MA died March 9, 2025 at Linda Manor Extended Care of Leeds surrounded by her family. Born in Northampton on Nov 6, 1940 she was the daughter of the late Edward and Sophie (Kovalski) Smith. She grew up in Florence, graduated from St. Michael’s High School where she worked many Friday night dances and later chaperoned students on several trips to Washington DC. Barbara worked for many years in the Hatfield School system where she loved working with the students and supporting high school athletics. She was also an active member and secretary at St. Joseph’s Church where she served as a eucharistic minister, was a member of the Rosary Altar Society, volunteered in the CCD program, and coordinated diocese charity drives as well as many community events including the annual Polka Festival,

pancake breakfasts, and Easter egg hunts. In 2004 she was recognized for her contributions with the Bishop Circle of Stewards Award. An avid Boston sports fan, she never missed watching a Red Sox, Celtics or Patriots game. She also enjoyed reading, bird watching, gardening, tending to her houseplants and spending time with her family.

Barbara was predeceased by her husband Paul R. Petcen and nephew Matthew Smith. Barbara leaves daughters Melissa Hyslop of Mahwah, NJ, Debra Mikaelian and her husband Mike of Florence, MA, and Amy Gilrein of Hatfield, MA; sister Sandra Park and brother James Smith and wife Bonnie; her grandchildren Jonathan Hyslop, Jessica and Alexander Mikaelian and Erin Gilrein and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to offer a special thank you to Linda Manor Assisted Living and Extended Care Facilities in Leeds for the comfort and friendship provided by the caring staff.

Calling hours will be Thursday March 13th from 5-7 pm at Czelusniak Funeral Home in Northampton with a funeral mass at Our Lady of Grace Parish on Friday March 14th at 10 am with burial to follow at Main St. Cemetery in Hatfield. In lieu of flowers,

the family kindly requests donations are made to Our Lady of Grace Church of Hatfield.