Barbara Mary Burke Furnari, born 03/13/61 passed away peacefully on 05/23/26 at the age of 65.

She was, above all else, a force of nature — a woman of unwavering strength, strong character, and deep faith. Proudly Irish Catholic, her belief was not just something she practiced; it was something she lived, woven quietly into the fabric of every day and every decision. She faced life's challenges, including a courageous battle with cancer, with the same grit and grace that defined her whole life. She did not bend. She endured, and she prevailed.

Those who knew her best knew her loves well: the stories that unfolded each afternoon on her favorite soap operas, the crafts that kept her hands busy and her heart content, and all pets and animals she adored without reservation. She wore her tattoos with pride — each one a piece of her story, told on her own terms. Her personality filled every room she entered, and no one who met her ever forgot her.

Above all, she was a devoted and loving mother. Her strength was her greatest gift to her family, and it is that strength — fierce, faithful, and full of love — that she leaves behind.

Barbara was the beloved daughter of Catherine Burke (Deceased) and William Burke (Deceased) a dear little sister to Billy Burke (alive), Barry Burke(Deceased) and Bryan Burke (Deceased) as well as a cherished grandchild to both Elizabeth Fennell(Deceased) and Edgar Cooke "Cookie". (Deceased)

Barbara will forever live on in the hearts of her beloved family—her husband, Christopher Furnari, and their four children: her three daughters Caitlin, Catherine, and Brianna, and son Brendan. They will cherish her memory always; and though life will never be the same without her, they will carry her love with them forever. As one of Barbara’s favorite quotes reminds us, “Blessed are the hearts that bend, for they shall never be broken.”

A celebration of life will be held on 6/03/26 @4pm William E. Law Inc. Funeral Home 1 Jerusalem Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758

  The family welcomes donations, flowers and kind words in this difficult time.