Barbara A. (Tates) Lombard, age 89, of Stratford, beloved wife of Robert A. Lombard, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025 with family by her side.

Barbara was born in Bridgeport on April 15, 1936, to the late Frank and Mae (Novotny) Tates and has been a lifelong Stratford resident. She was a graduate of Stratford High School, class of 1954.

Barbara lived her life with an infectious brightness. Her cheerful spirit, ready smile, and ever-uplifting outlook touched countless lives.  It was in her nature to strike up a warm conversation wherever she went and left everyone feeling seen and valued.  A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, she believed family was life's greatest treasure.

She supported her husband's sailing passion with grace.  Barbara found joy in the simple gifts—singing with all her heart, losing herself in a good book, and nurturing the deep faith that anchored her through every season. Surrounded by a wide circle of dear friends, she lived a life rich in love and quiet strength.  She will be remembered for the light she carried, the lives she brightened, and the countless hearts she held close.

Survivors in addition to her beloved husband of 66 years include her devoted children, Kathleen Russell and her husband Jon of Weston, Elizabeth O'Keefe of Amherst, NY and Robert P. Lombard and his wife Dawn of Stratford, 5 cherished grandchildren, Aaron Russell, Elise Russell, Alicia Mihaly (Matthew), Robert P. Lombard and Daniel Lombard, and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Barbara was pre-deceased by her sister, Alice deGroff and her husband Eugene.

Visitation will be on Friday, November 21st from 4-7 p.m. at the Adzima Funeral Home 50 Paradise Green Place, Stratford.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, November 22nd at 10:00 a.m. meeting directly at St. James Church 2070 Main Street Stratford, all other services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, those desiring may donate in Barbara's memory to Mozaic Senior Life 4200 Park Ave Bridgeport, CT 06604.