Elaine “Diddie” Barry

FAIRFIELD – Elaine “Diddie” Barry, 85, was a beloved grandmother, mother, and wife during her incredible 85 years of life. She was born on September 28, 1939, in New Hampshire, one of three children to Alphonse Charles Alley and Mary Luella (Thurber) Alley. Diddie passed away comfortably surrounded by her family, in her own home in Fairfield during the early evening on Tuesday, November 12, 2024.

Diddie made the world’s best apple pie. Yes, she accomplished many things in her multiple careers and family titles, but the quality of the apple pie cannot be overstated. She had a long, full life and wore many “hats.” Her most prideful hat was her dedication to the Rebekah Assembly of Maine. Diddie committed 50-plus years of service to the Rebekah’s. She had a whirlwind of roles during her time as a Rebekah and retired from the Assembly in the significant position of Treasurer. She loved to laugh at the events and hold the attention of the crowd during her speeches at functions.

When Diddie was not traveling around the States with her fellow Rebekah’s she was traveling around the world with her family. She jumped on every opportunity to cruise in style, including memorable cruises to Alaska, Eastern and Western Caribbean, Hawaii, and Canada. The annual cruise photo has become a collection of everyone aging except for Diddie. She always placed herself front and center showing off her voluminous white hair and radiant smile remaining full of life.

She was predeceased by her husband of 45+ years Donald Charles Barry, and her son Donald Charles “Skip”.

Diddie is survived by her sister Charlotte, daughter Tammy, and grandson Ridge Barry with his wife Kate.

We will remember Diddie for her playfulness, giving, and thoughtful nature, and her zingers served with a smile and an occasional pinch. She remained youthful at heart by wearing her notorious holiday hats and creating her humorous homemade cards. She volunteered at more places than she could count, including at Thayer Hospital within the lab. She always spoke so highly of the people there and fully enjoyed what she did and who she met in her days while volunteering.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, from 10:00am – 12:00pm at the United Methodist Church in Fairfield Center.

Please visit Diddie’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/elaine-barry-2024 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your local humane society in memory of Diddie Barry.