Barbara J (Lemon) Perry

It is with deep sorrow that the family of Barbara Jean (Lemon) Perry announces her passing after a courageous battle with cancer. Barbara passed away at home on September 11, 2025. Barbara was born on March 6, 1956, in Palmer, MA to the late Carl Lemon, Sr. and Edith Leighton Murray.  She was a 1974 graduate of Westfield High School and later attended Western New England College.

Barbara was a successful and well-respected marketing and advertising professional in Western Mass, recently retiring from Reminder Publishing in 2023 after many years of service as VP of Sales and Marketing.  She served as past President and Board Member of the Independent Free Papers of America (IFPA), Free Community Newspapers of New England (FCPNE) and a member of the Springfield Chamber of Commerce.

Barbara loved life and a good time.  She was happiest surrounded by family and friends, listening to music with a nice glass of bourbon in her hand. She enjoyed traveling and recently spent a year living abroad in Spain with her husband Steve. 

Barbara is survived by her husband Stephen Gillis of Ludlow, MA, her sons: Wayne Mathew Perry (Nicole Marquis), William Arthur Perry, and step-daughter Elena Gillis; her siblings: Carl Lemon (Doreene), Keith Lemon, Sr. (Lori), Jeffrey Lemon, and Lisa Lemon, Brothers-in-law Timothy Gillis (Catherine) and Peter Gillis (Mimi).

“Auntie Beebs”, as she was lovingly known, was a constant source of love, laughter, and wisdom to her many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will take place on Friday, October 10, 2025, from 10AM- 12Noon, followed by a Celebration of Life at 12Noon, at Firtion Adams Funeral Home, 76 Broad Street, Westfield, MA.

In lieu of flowers please consider a Memorial Donation:

UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester MA.  Their primary fundraiser is the annual UMass Cancer Walk. 

https://www.umasscancerwalk.org/

Brookhaven Hospice of Massachusetts and New Hampshire

https://www.brookhavenhospice.com/make_a_donation.php

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.