Barbara Marie McCollett

WEST GARDINER – Barbara Marie McCollett, 83, of West Gardiner, died on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025, at her home with her family by her side.

She was born on Dec. 18, 1941, in Gardiner, Maine, and lived a life full of love, charisma, and talent. Her life was marked by her unwavering dedication to her late husband and best friend Peter (whom she waited on hand and foot), her children, her steadfast faith, and her inherent knack for making her house feel like home. She had an infectious laugh that was the heart of every family gathering, and her devotion to those she loved was incomparable.

Barbara had the ability to make anyone feel welcomed and loved. Her quick wit and wry sense of humor were disarming, and she always enjoyed sharing a good laugh. Her love of food was legendary. At every picnic, people looked forward to her macaroni salad; at every potluck, they anticipated her goulash.

Barbara had a genuine and profound love for life’s simple pleasures. Her evenings were filled with the joy of eating and watching TV with family. She drank Pepsi through the day (cold, no ice) and enjoyed her Kit-Kats in bed as a well-earned, evening snack. Whether she was weed whacking, crafting, or watching her favorite shows, Barbara infused every activity with fun and love.

Barbara was a faithful member of the South Gardiner Baptist Church. She had a quiet faith but her vibrant spirit and commitment to service were well-known and deeply appreciated. She was a devoted caregiver to foster children, touching countless lives with her kindness and compassion. Her door was always open, and her home rarely lacked visitors, friends, and family.

As a loving mother, Barbara raised nine children: Mary Essency, Steve McCollett, Pete McCollett, Barbara McCollett, Eric McCollett, Chris Merritt, Kurt McCollett, and Tony McCollett.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Emery and Hazel Swift; husband Peter Van McCollett, Sr.; and sons Steven Lane McCollett, Eric Emery McCollet, and Brett McCollett.

We invite you to celebrate Barbara’s life by sharing your memories and photographs on her memorial page at http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com Every story, picture, and memory helps to paint a fuller picture of the remarkable woman she was. Remembering Barbara means recognizing the ways in which she enriched our lives, and we look forward to celebrating her legacy together.

A memorial service will be held at South Gardiner Baptist Church on Saturday, December 13 at 10 a.m., with Pastor Keith Hilton presiding.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner.