Eileen M. Barriere

Eileen M. Barriere of East Berlin, CT and North Eastham, MA died peacefully at home on February 23rd, 2022, surrounded by her loving family. 

Born in New York City, she was the daughter of Mary and Vito Sinapoli and lived in the Bronx for 29 years.  Eileen graduated from Mount Saint Ursula High School and obtained her Bachelor's and Master's degrees at Hunter College in New York City, followed by a 6th year Advanced degree from Central Connecticut State University.

Eileen was married to Louis J. Barriere, Jr. in New York City on August 25, 1956.  She and her husband moved to Berlin, CT in 1966 to start a new life raising their three children. 

Eileen was both a teacher and a life-long learner.  Eileen dedicated 30 years to education, teaching and working in New York City, at Kensington Grammar School and Hubbard School in Berlin and at Saint Joseph's College in West Hartford.  She was the president, vice president, and treasurer of Alpha Delta Kappa (Eta Chapter) devoted to altruistic causes, and was secretary for many years at The American Association of University Women.  She volunteered her time as a literary teacher in Berlin and taught classes at the YMCA, eventually becoming a member of the Board.  She was devoted to children's causes, especially St. Jude's, the Smile Train, and the Covenant House.

Eileen was an avid reader and she took various courses throughout her life.  She travelled extensively with family and friends and with the Elder Hostel program.  She was a volunteer docent and member of the New Britain Museum of Art where she enjoyed viewing the paintings and listening to lectures.

Eileen was a true social being and made friends wherever she went.  She had an adventurous spirit and said "yes" to opportunities that came her way.  She touched so many lives with her warmth, her acceptance of others, her fabulous sense of humor, and her gift of story telling.

Eileen is predeceased by her husband, Louis, of 35 years.  She leaves three children, Gregory Barriere (wife Maureen Barriere) of Kensington, CT, Lisa Barriere (husband William Bechtold) of Brewster, MA, and Donna Ginter (husband Peter Ginter) of Townshend, VT.  She also leaves behind three grandchildren, Peter Otto, Eric and Callie Ginter and many nieces and nephews. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at 11:30 am at Sacred Heart Church in East Berlin.  She will be buried next to her husband at Maple Cemetery on Worthington Ridge in Berlin, CT.  At Eileen's request, in lieu of flowers donations can be made in her memory to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.  Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home of Berlin/Porters is in charge of arrangements. 

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