Below is an obituary from Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home:
WILMINGTON, MA — Barbara M. (Hearn) Forester, passed away unexpectedly at her home, with her husband Leo at her side. A longtime resident of Wilmington, Barbara was seventy-two years of age.
Born in Woburn, she was the daughter of the late Donald and Patricia (Eaton) Hearn. Raised in the South End section of Woburn, Barbara was educated in the Woburn Public Schools, graduating with the Class of 1970.
After graduating high school, Barbara journeyed westward. She spent time in California before heading to Hawaii, eventually returning to her hometown of Woburn in the early nineties. Through mutual friends, Barbara reconnected with an old high school friend, Leo Forester. Their relationship flourished, and in 2001 they were married. They had just celebrated their 24th anniversary.
Settling in Wilmington, Barbara became quite busy with her daily life. She enjoyed spending time with friends, traveling, lunches out, and tending to her flowers and garden. Barbara and Leo loved traveling together and spent many wonderful vacations cruising to different islands.
Holidays were a favorite time of year for Barbara. Her attention to detail made every celebration special, and she cherished hosting gatherings—welcoming family and friends not only during the holidays, but throughout the year.
Summer months were filled with fun in their backyard, complete with pool parties, lobster bakes, cookouts, and birthday celebrations that were always a given. “Nana” absolutely adored her grandchildren. Time spent with them was captivating and joyful—whether at family dinners, cheering them on at their various games and activities, or enjoying sleepovers at home. These moments were precious to her, and she always looked forward to them.
Barbara’s passing was sudden and has left a profound void in the hearts of all who loved her. Her legacy of family, love, laughter, and adventure will continue to live on in all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Sadly, she was predeceased by her parents, Donald and Patricia (Eaton) Hearn.
Beloved wife of Leo F. Forester. Dear stepmother of Craig L. Forester and his wife Tina of Wilmington, and Candace L. Honan and her husband Michael of Tewksbury. Cherished “Nana” of Craig, Drew, Charlotte, and Magnolia. Loving sister of Donald Hearn and his wife Joan of Chelmsford and sister-in-law of Joseph Forester and his wife Kathleen of Winchester, and the late Carl Forester of Woburn. Barbara is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and a large circle of devoted friends who will miss her dearly.
“Goodbyes are not forever, not the end; it simply means I’ll miss you until we meet again.”
A Funeral Service will be held in the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn, on Tuesday, November 18th at 11 a.m. Interment in Calvary Cemetery, Winchester. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to calling hours from 9–10:45 a.m. PRIOR to the service.
Wilmington Apple 