Christina (Barr) Marden of Holliston, MA, age 72, passed away peacefully at home on February 7th surrounded by her family. A kind woman of immeasurable grace, the world was a better place with her in it. Chris's death is a profound loss for her husband Richard, who was her high school sweetheart, and her son Ryan Marden. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will not be forgotten.
Chris was an avid Red Sox fan who also enjoyed many good years of golf and traveling, both in the United States and abroad. She visited every state in the nation and eight European countries. In her younger years Chris enjoyed horseback riding as well.
Chris was a beloved member of the Natick High School Class of 1966. She went on to graduate from Framingham State College in 1971 with a BS in Elementary Education and then earned a Master's Degree in Education from Cambridge College in 1995.
However, her most meaningful years were the 35 years she taught in the Natick School System. Chris was dedicated to teaching and impacted hundreds of children with her kind, caring manner. She was known as the kindergarten teacher you wanted your child to have. In addition to receiving the Teacher of the Year Award, Chris also was listed in Who's Who Among America's Teachers in 2004. Chris retired from teaching in 2006.
Chris loved the Cape and had cherished memories of her time spent at their summer home in Yarmouthport. A nature lover, Chris was an active member of the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster and participated in many programs while her health permitted. She embraced all that life offered.
Chris is predeceased by her parents, Laurence and Agnes "Gigi" Barr as well as her brother William Barr. In addition to her husband Dick and son Ryan, Chris is survived by her sister Barbara Kampersal of Holden as well as many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to express sincere appreciation for the many acts of kindness and prayers during Chris's illness and the family's bereavement. Arrangements are under the care of Holden Dunn & Lawler Funeral Home in Westwood. There will be no visiting hours. Due to Covid-19, burial will take place in the spring at Glenwood Cemetery in South Natick.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Chris's memory to The Natick Service Council's Food Pantry. Donations may be mailed to The Natick Service Council located at 2 Webster Street in Natick, MA 01760. Please include the words "Food Pantry" on the memo line.