Barbara Ruth Loring (née Greenberg)

May 12, 1937 – May 17, 2025

Barbara Ruth Loring, a devoted mother, grandmother, educator, and community leader, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025, at the age of 88. Born in Brooklyn, NY, on May 12, 1937, she was the daughter of Reuben and Lillian Greenberg. Barbara was the cherished twin sister of Marjorie and older sister to Larry.

A proud graduate of Midwood High School and Brooklyn College, Barbara married Robert “Bob” Loring on December 22, 1957. Together, they moved to Staten Island to raise their family, where Barbara became a beloved figure in both educational and civic circles.

For over four decades, Barbara served as an elementary school teacher, shaping the lives of countless students with her kindness, patience, and dedication. Her commitment to education extended beyond the classroom; she was an active volunteer at the JCC of Staten Island and served as president of the Parents Association and a member of the Board of Trustees at Staten Island Academy. Her leadership and passion for education left an indelible mark on the community.

She similarly committed her time to making her home a better place, serving for many years as the president of the tenants’ committee and then co-op board at 36 Hamilton Avenue, her family’s long time residence.

Barbara also devoted more than 40 years to the Baron Hirsch Cemetery, serving as a trustee and later as president of the Board. Her tireless work ensured that the cemetery remained a place of peace and reverence for generations to come.

In retirement, Barbara and Bob made their home in Hopatcong, New Jersey, where they were surrounded by good friends and neighbors, and Barbara committed her time to civic, cultural and educational activities.

A lover of classical music and art, Barbara found joy in cultural pursuits and cherished traveling with her children and grandchildren. She was a loving grandmother and a caring neighbor, known for her warmth and the genuine friendships she cultivated with everyone she encountered.

Barbara was predeceased by her parents, her sister Marjorie, and her husband of 62 years, Bob. She is survived by her children, Robyn and Leon Specthrie, Susan and Hugh Crane; her grandchildren, John, Alexandra, and Caroline Crane; and Jeffrey, Ryan, and Matthew Wiedmayer.

A memorial service to celebrate Barbara’s life will be held at Temple Shalom, 215 S. Hillside Avenue, Succasunna, New Jersey on May 20, 2025 at 10:00 AM.

Shiva will be observed at 1 Mabro Drive, Randolph, NJ following the service until 8:00PM and on Wednesday, May 21 at 80 Ithanell Rd., Hopatcong, NJ from 2:00-8:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Barbara’s memory be made to the Lake Hopatcong Foundation (https://www.lakehopatcongfoundation.org) or the Madison Public Library (https://friendsmadisonnjlibrary.org/).

Arrangements are by the Davis & Hepplewhite Funeral Home, 96 Main Street, Succasunna, NJ 973-584-7264

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