Barbara Nancy Marcinkowski

Barbara Nancy Marcinkowski

December 8,1942 - January 4, 2022

Barbara departed from our world to join her heavenly savior and enter into eternal joy on Tuesday,  January 4th. She passed at her home on Hilton Head Island with her loving family by her side after a long, brave battle with Alzheimer’s.

Barbara was born in Manhattan, NY to Dr. Clement and Aurelia Boccalini. She graduated from Adelphi College with BS and Master’s degrees in Speech and Language Pathology. It was at Adelphi where she met the love of her life Walter and began a remarkable 58 year journey dedicated to both him and her family.

She began her career as a Speech Pathologist in Smithtown, NY and upon moving to Hilton Head in 1980 worked with the Beaufort County School system. It brought her tremendous joy helping children gain confidence in speaking. She was also very proud to have helped initiate the early childhood program before her retirement.

Barbara’s heart was beyond passionate. She loved all people, her beloved husband, family, friends and most of all her Savior. She had a faith based marriage full of love and was the idol of her family. Family was always first. Her two daughters and her three grandchildren were the light of her life and she was involved in every aspect of their lives. She put others first, valuing everyone. Her grace, strength, kindness, fierce love and compassionate heart radiated to all of those who knew her. Barbara made everyone feel so very loved.

She was hugely enthusiastic about all things tennis and loved travel, the theater and especially appreciated the beauty of Hilton Head. The beach was one of her favorite places to be- where she loved reading, riding in the waves and having evening dinners with her hubby watching the sun set. She cherished Butterbean, her sweet kitty, all things Italian, music, cooking and especially dancing anywhere with Walt. Gatherings with family and friends were full of laughter, love and amazing meals.  

She was a member of St. Francis Church where she served as a lector and was part of a charismatic prayer group. Barbara loved Jesus and was passionate about sharing the word of God- enthusiastically praising him. She was the kindest, most humble woman who influenced many to remain strong in their faith and to believe in all of the goodness in this world.

She was actively involved in her community and  generously volunteered her time to many organizations including being a founding member and president of the youth tennis association of HHI in the 1980’s, Memory Matters, St. Francis Thrift Store and United Way of the Lowcountry to name a few.

Barbara was an extraordinary person, an angel on earth, full of color with a warm contagious smile and a lively, beautiful spirit. She loved life. She could find the fun in everything and the good in everyone.  She was a true blessing and her bright light will be missed everyday.

She was preceded in death by her parents Dr. Clement and Aurelia Boccalini. She is survived by her husband Walter Marcinkowski, daughters  Bethany Marcinkowski, and Debra (Jeff) Hartberger of HHI, SC and three grandchildren, Hannah and Abbi Hartberger and Jake Wisner: her brother John (Janet) Boccalini of Jaffrey, NH  and sister Denise (Ira) Boccalini of Asharoken, NY.

We would like to give  heartfelt thanks to all the people who supported us during this difficult time of need.

A Christian Mass will be held at 10:00 Tuesday morning, January 18, 2022 at Saint Francis by the Sea Catholic Church, 45 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to Memory Matters of Hilton Head.

Please share your thoughts and stories about Barbara by visiting saulsfh.com

Sauls Funeral home is assisting the family with arrangements.

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