Barbara Joan (Kemalian) Stone, 92, passed away July 30, 2024, from kidney failure. Barbara lived a full and rewarding life and was loved by so many. She was born in Providence, RI, to Anthony (Andy) and Aroxie Kemalian on December 30, 1931. After receiving a Bachelor of Arts in English from Brown University and a Masters of Arts in Teaching from Harvard University, Barbara taught English on American Air Force bases in Bitburg, Germany and Tripoli, Libya for several years, an adventure that allowed her to travel extensively throughout Europe and the Middle East. Barbara continued teaching at Warwick Veterans High School, where she was a beloved English teacher and drama coach. Her children can attest that many times over the years Barbara was greeted by former students at the market or drugstore lauding her as their “favorite teacher.” Even last Christmas, she received a letter from a former student who expressed gratitude for being one of her biggest inspirations in life.
Barbara had twins and triplets -- two years apart! -- achieving legendary mother status from those who knew her. She loved her children unconditionally and had a gift of making each of them feel they were her favorite. Barbara was also the beloved grandmother to eight grandchildren. She loved her talks with them -- never failing to cheer them on or offer advice on life’s latest adventures.
Barbara had a lifelong love of literature and the written word and, for decades, enjoyed her book club. She was always prepared to discuss the book of the month with notes and analysis -- continuing her love of teaching! Barbara was also an eloquent writer and it was not uncommon for her friends to receive a hand-written poem or ditty for a special occasion, which she would lovingly read aloud to them. She was an avid bridge player, enjoying her bi-weekly games at Warwick Country Club, where she was a longtime member. Barbara was a consummate hostess and, in true Armenian fashion, always ensured there was an abundance of food and refreshments for all -- the more the merrier! She was also an active member and president of the Brown University Class of ’53, and served as a graduation marshall at her 75th college reunion last year. She was also a member of the Wednesday Club and was quite the debater in her day. Barbara was a dedicated New England sports fan, cheering on her teams late into the evening. She was thrilled to watch the Celtics win the championship this year.
Barbara will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, intellect, loyalty, character, genuineness, and true elegance. She is survived by her five children: Edward S. Stone IV (Cathleen Corrigan), of Warwick, RI, Andrew K. Stone, of Warwick, RI, Laura L. Stone (Neal J. Glickfield), of Washington, DC, Bradley S. Stone (Melanie), of Sebastian, FL, and Thomas P. Stone, of Warwick, RI; eight grandchildren: Justin D. Quam, William T. Quam, Ericson A. Quam, Samantha T. Stone, Bradley S. Stone, Jr., Skyler M. Stone, Catherine E. Stone and Edward S. Stone V; a brother, Andrew A. Kemalian (Eveline), of Canton, MA; her long-time significant other, E. Allen Reed, of Warwick, RI; and four granddogs.
A Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Sts. Sahag & Mesrob Armenian Church, 70 Jefferson St., Providence, RI 02908, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. and burial at North Burial Ground, Providence, RI.
Barbara seldom wore black opting instead to wear bright colors to stand out in the crowd rather than fade into the background. The family wishes to honor this preference at the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the AGBU (Armenian General Benevolent Union) for the Global Relief Fund, 55 East 59th St., New York, NY 10022-1112, or Sts. Sahag & Mesrob Armenian Church (address above). Visit NardolilloFH.com for online condolences.
