Barbara R (Papa) Woodruff

83, of Providence, RI, formerly of Chepachet, RI, passed away on Tuesday June 6, 2017surrounded by her loving family. She was the wife of the late Melvin Woodruff for 62 years, who predeceased her in June, 2016. She was the daughter of late John and Rena (Heon) Papa. Barbara is survived by one brother, Steven Papa of North Providence.

Besides her brother Barbara leaves behind two children. Steven Woodruff and wife Gina of North Providence. Karen (Woodruff) Barth and husband Richard I of Providence. Barbara leaves behind five grandchildren Kyle Woodruff of North Providence, Richard Barth II of Providence, Robert Barth of Pasadena, MD, Kristen Barth-Cafaro of North Providence and Jordan Zanni of North Providence. As well as six great-grandchildren Jena, Robert II, Kaylee, Elena, Valentina, and Richard III.

Barbara worked as a Medical Receptionist for Dr. D. Richard Barronian, and Dr. Amrut Patel, before retiring. Genealogy was her passion. She authored a book tracing her maternal family roots back to the Mayflower. She was a member of the General Society of Mayflower Decedents and the Daughters of the American Revolution. Besides genealogy, Barbara was very active in volunteering for her parishes and was a Eucharist Minister for St. Eugene’s Church in Chepachet, RI.

Funeral from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave, Cranston on Saturday at 8:45 am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am in St. Pius Church, 55 Elmhurst Avenue, Providence. Burial will take place in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. VISITING HOURS will be held on Friday 4-7 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Alzheimer’s Association, 245 Waterman St. Suite 306, Providence, RI 02906.