Barbara M. (Shillingford) McCusker

Barbara M. (nee: Shillingford) McCusker, 85, of Springfield PA died peacefully on September 17, 2022 with her loving family surrounding her. Barbara was the daughter of the late Vincent and Mae Shillingford. She spent her childhood in Clifton Heights PA. She attended St. Charles grade school, Holy Child Academy in Sharon Hill and Manor College. She then proudly worked as a ticket agent for American Airlines. She then met her devoted husband the late James E. McCusker of Collingdale PA.  They married on May 6, 1961 and moved to Springfield and have been members of Holy Cross Church for over 60 years. She was a member of the Women's club and the church choir. Barbara was an only child who would tell others this is why God blessed her with five children. She was an enthusiastic Democratic Committee woman in Springfield. She instilled in her children the importance of voting and getting involved in civil rights and supporting the community. She was everyone's “Other Mother”. She had an open door policy inviting friends and neighbors in to talk over whatever was on their mind. Every topic you can think of was discussed and resolved at her kitchen table! Barbara was a gracious hostess who loved to entertain. She had her house decorated for every holiday and most especially went overboard with Christmas decorations. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy. She never missed a special event in their honor and made sure she made a fuss over them. As the daughter of an entertainer she loved music, especially Irish music. She was very proud of her Irish heritage and was an avid Notre Dame football fan, her trips there were among her favorites. She also loved to vacation in Ocean City NJ, walking the boardwalk, and going to her favorite seafood restaurants. Later in life she relaxed with her family in Lake Naomi, Pocono Pines PA. 

Barbara will most be remembered for her love of family, her generous heart, her answering the call to caregiving to so many, and her deep faith in a loving and forgiving God.

Barbara is survived by her children, Donna Liu (Evan), James V. McCusker (Laura), Karen Nolan (John), Allison McCusker, Lauren Gilligan (Greg) as well as 10 grandchildren and 2 great-granddaughters and many nieces and nephews. 

Relatives and friends are invited to her Viewing Wed. September, 21, 2022 6pm O’Leary Funeral Home, 640 E. Springfield Road, Springfield, PA 19064 and Thurs. morning 9:30am Holy Cross Church, 651 E. Springfield Road, Springfield, PA 19064. Funeral Mass Thurs. 10:30am in the Church. Burial St. Charles Cemetery, Drexel Hill, PA. In Lieu of flowers donations to the Dementia Society Inc. 188 N. Main St. Doylestown PA 18901 or at www.dementiasociety.org

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