Obituary of Barbara E. Hawley

Barbara (Shramek) Hawley, loving mother and Grandma, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. Born on October 26, 1945, she was a 1963 graduate of Chenango Valley Central School. Barbara was predeceased by her beloved husband, James J. Hawley, with whom she shared 39 years of loving marriage. She was also predeceased by her parents, Arlene and Michael Shramek, and her sister, Elizabeth Werle. Together, Barbara and Jim raised five children and built a life centered around faith, family, and love. Barbara's generous nature was evident wherever she went. She was always on the go, and whether helping others, or caring for her family and friends, her devotion to family and her ability to love unconditionally were truly the hallmarks of her life. Barbara loved nothing more than spending time with family and friends, whether it was as the loudest cheerleader at her grandkids' games or as the proudest audience member at any play or concert her grandchildren were in, the pride she took in her family knew no end. When she wasn't going on vacation to Disney or Cape May with any member of her family or visiting cherished relatives in Minnesota, she loved going with friends to knitting club, exercising at the gym, or attending mass. To know Barbara was to love her. Her boundless energy and youthful spirit touched young and old alike. The closeness of her large family was a true testament to her love and grace. She was a trusted confidante for all and was the first person many people turned to, whether for solace, comfort, or just pure love. Her family will deeply miss their daily chats and heartfelt conversations. Most of all, they will miss gathering at Grandma's house. Barbara is survived by her five children and their spouses: Kelly and Richard Burke; Jim and Molly Hawley; Katie and John Munley; Kevin and Nicole Hawley; Kerry and Jeff VanAuken. She is also survived by her twelve grandchildren: John Michael, Megan, Maura, Jeffrey, Siobhan, Grace, Will, James, Nola, Ella, Layla and Avery. She also leaves behind her loving big brother, Ted Shramek, as well as many nieces, nephews, and special god-children. The family would like to give a special thank you to the Palliative Care Team at Binghamton General, especially to Madison, Emily, Erna and Jess. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to an organization very close to her heart, Mercy House of the Southern Tier, 212 N. McKinley Avenue, Endicott, NY 13760. A Funeral Mass will be offered Monday, September 30th at the Church of the Holy Family, 3600 Phyllis Street, Endwell, at 12 noon. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City. The family will receive friends at Church of the Holy Family, Monday from 10 a.m. until 12 noon And though the world is a little less bright without her in it, her family and friends will carry on her memory in our kind thoughts, loving words and selfless acts.