Barbara C. Sly, former Pennington resident of 20 years, died on August 31, 2016, in Hackettstown, New Jersey. Barbara, daughter of Paul H. Coe and Meredyth N. Coe, was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, William L. Sly.
She is survived by their three daughters, Margery N. Sly of Haddonfield, NJ, Carol G. Sly and husband Stephen Marshall of Falls Church VA, Patricia L. Sly and husband Robert Chernow of Chester, NJ, and five grandchildren: Robin, Melissa, and Jack Chernow, John and Neal Marshall.
She was preceded in death by her sister Patricia Critchlow, and is survived by her brother, Dr. Stephen Coe and wife Peggy, brothers-in law James Critchlow and Paul Kreitler; and many nieces, and great nieces and nephews. Born September 25, 1927, in Warren, Pennsylvania, she graduated Wells College with a BA in Sociology.
Barbara and Bill raised their family in Ridgefield before moving to Pennington in 1979. There she was employed by Trenton State College and Weidel Real Estate. She also volunteered at the Pennington Library and the Merwick Rehab Center. Throughout her life she enjoyed baking, sewing, gardening, reading, and bridge.
Barbara was an ordained Presbyterian elder and a deacon and served at churches where she was a member, including the South Salem Presbyterian Church and the Pennington Presbyterian Church. Her membership at the Hackettstown Presbyterian Church brought her great comfort.
The family enjoyed summers on Candlewood Lake, and she, her husband, and daughter Margery shared the pleasure of many schooner trips off the coast of Maine. Along with her husband Bill, she attended over 60 Elderhostels, learning about history, music, and many other subjects while meeting people from all over the country.
A memorial service will be held at Heath Village in Hackettstown on September 17, with a private graveside blessing said upon burial in Warwick, NY. Donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, 298 Main Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840; Wells College, Aurora, NY 13026; or to a charity of your choice.
