Barbara Ann Hannigan

Barbara Ann Hannigan, a beacon of warmth and love, passed away in the presence of family on December 30, 2024, in Concord, Massachusetts. Born on April 23, 1937, in Dorchester, MA, she was the cherished daughter of Archibald and Mary Keohan. Barbara's life was a tapestry of deep family connections, enduring friendships, and selfless care of others.

Barbara's journey began in the close-knit community of Dorchester. She grew up and attended school within St. Mark's Parish, where she formed a lifelong bond with a group of 10 friends affectionately known as "Club" whose devotion to each other would span decades and provide a source of joy and support throughout Barbara’s life. Upon graduating from high school she worked for the New England Telephone Company. Soon after she met her future husband Thomas F. Hannigan who shared membership in Barbara’s interconnected communities of work, church, and friends.

In her heart and in her actions, Barbara was devoted to her family. She was the beloved wife of Thomas F. Hannigan with whom she shared 62 years of marriage, having wed in Dorchester in 1963. They built a home full of joy and happiness. Barbara's role as mother was core to her life’s purpose. She was the loving mother of Christine Morrison and her husband J. Bart of Harvard, MA, Thomas Hannigan and his wife Meredith of Canton, MA, Michael Hannigan and his wife Kara of Braintree. MA. She held close to her heart the memory of her late daughter, Maryellen Hannigan who was lost shortly after birth.

Barbara’s nurturing spirit was a special gift to her grandchildren, Fiona, Liam, Michaela, Grace, Avery, and Emerson. Known affectionately as “Nani”, Barbara delighted in many celebrations, vacations, outings, sleepovers, and shopping excursions shared with them. Each grandchild has favorite Nani culinary specialties. These fun times and food where often shared by her many nieces and nephews who knew her as “Bibsie.” Also, Barbara was devoted to and loved extended family, especially the “Han-Cor” cousins, her brothers-in-law Paul and his wife Maggie, and George and his wife Ellie. Barabra is predeceased by her brothers Archibald Keohan, Joseph Keohan, and Edward Keohan.

For 52 years Barbara made her home in Braintree, where her role as a caregiver extended naturally from family to the neighborhood. 12 Hatch Ave. was a second home to many. Barbara’s selflessness knew no bounds, and her presence was a source of stability and love for all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Barbara's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was a devoted member of the Sacred Heart Parish in Weymouth, MA. Her commitment to her faith was lifelong. Each day was full of prayer.

Barbara's passing leaves a void in the lives of those who loved her. However, the memories of her love, her dedication to her family, and her unwavering spirit will continue to inspire and comfort those who were touched by her remarkable life. She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

Visiting hours will be held Friday, January 3rd from 4-7 at Dockray & Thomas Funeral Home 455 Washington St. Canton.. A funeral mass will be held Saturday, January 4th at 9:45 a.m. at St. Oscar Romero Church in Canton. Burial at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in West Roxbury. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America at http://www.alz.org in Barbara’s memory.

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