Barbara Jean Reynolds

Barbara Jean Reynolds, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on October 10, 2025, surrounded by her loving husband Rufus, family, and dear friends. She was 73.

Born at Binghamton General Hospital, Barbara spent her formative years between Binghamton and Windsor, New York, and Susquehanna, Pennsylvania. She attended Susquehanna Community High School and graduated from Laurel Hill Academy, laying the foundation for a life defined by compassion, resilience, and devotion to family.

Barbara was predeceased by her parents, Edward and Ardith (Wayman) Lawson; her sister Patricia; her brother Edward; and her son Jason. She is survived by her sisters Linda (Skinner) and brothers Richard and Allen.

Barbara’s life was rich with love and family. With her first husband, Paul Grausgruber, she raised three sons: Jason (deceased), Nicholas, and Joseph. Her second husband, Gary Cowperthwait (deceased), brought four stepchildren into her life: Lori, Kristen, Kevin, and Todd. With her devoted husband Rufus H. Reynolds, she embraced three more stepchildren: Jonica, Bernadette, and Rufus H. Reynolds III.

Barbara was the proud grandmother of Jessica, Kyle, Hope, Garret, Brianna, Abby, Malena, Aric, Donovan, Deven, Owen, and Avrie. Her joy multiplied with the arrival of her great-grandson, Kolsten. To all of them, she was simply “Meme”—a name that embodied her nurturing spirit and unwavering love. Being Meme was not just a role; it was her identity, her pride, and her greatest accomplishment.

Barbara’s warmth extended beyond family. Her friendships were deep and enduring, especially with Kathleen Evans and Polly Spry, whose bonds with Barbara spanned decades. As well, she shared special friendships with her daughters-in-law, Kelly and Holly. She also cherished her animal companions, including Penny, her Irish Setter, and Samantha Jean, her loyal Yellow Lab of 14 years.

Barbara filled every space she entered with kindness, laughter, and love. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. We are all better for having shared our lives with Barbara, and we take comfort in the belief that one day, we will see her smile again and hear her laugh.

Visitation honoring Barbara will be held at the Hennessey Funeral Home, 747 Jackson Ave, Susquehanna, PA on Saturday, October 18th, from 10:00 AM to Noon. A funeral mass will be celebrated at St John the Evangelist/Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church immediately following the service, and a buffet luncheon will be held at Bill’s Hilltop Tavern, 236 Jackson Ave, at 1:30 PM. In lieu of flowers a donation in Barbara’s honor to St Jude Children’s Hospital will be greatly appreciated. It was Barb’s favorite charity.