Barbara R. (Makin) MacPhee

HOLDEN – Barbara R. (Makin) MacPhee, 85, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at The Branches of Marlborough, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born in Boonton, New Jersey, Barbara was the daughter of George and Ruth (Holtz) Makin. She grew up in New Jersey and later moved to Massachusetts to attend Clark University, where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology.

Barbara lived a life defined by faith, service, hard work, and a deep love for family. A licensed Realtor for more than five decades, she and her husband, Gordon, proudly co-owned and operated Stony Farm Realty in Holden for over 50 years. Throughout her career, she was a respected member of the Worcester County Board of Realtors and the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), earning the trust and friendship of countless clients and colleagues.

Barbara was deeply committed to her community and generously shared her time and talents with organizations she cared about. She served as President of the Holden Garden Club and was an active member for many years. Her passion for beekeeping led her to become President of the Worcester County Beekeepers Association, and when the organization faced challenges following the COVID pandemic, Barbara stepped forward once again at the age of 80 to lead and help revitalize the association she loved.

Her faith was the foundation of her life. Barbara and Gordon were devoted members of Heritage Bible Chapel in Princeton, where she actively participated in King's Ministry and found great joy in serving others and growing in her faith.

Above all, Barbara treasured her family. She was a loving wife, devoted mother, proud grandmother, and loyal friend whose kindness, wisdom, and quiet strength touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her. Whether tending her gardens, caring for her bees, helping a client find a home, or offering encouragement to a friend, Barbara approached life with grace, determination, and a generous heart.

Barbara will be lovingly missed and forever remembered by her beloved husband of 60 years, Gordon W. MacPhee of Holden; her devoted children, Kimberlee Herron and her husband Richard of Boylston, Dr. Keelee MacPhee of Durham, North Carolina, and Jonathan MacPhee and his wife Anne Tiffin of Acton; her cherished granddaughters, Mikayla and Makenzy; her brother, James Makin and his wife Nancy of Pennsylvania; her sister, Doris Battisti and her husband, Rick, of Georgia; as well as many extended family members, friends, colleagues, fellow gardeners, beekeepers, and members of her church community.

The family extends their sincere appreciation to the dedicated caregivers at Knollwood Nursing Center, Branches of Marlboro, and Faith & Family Hospice whose kindness, patience, and compassionate care brought comfort to Barbara and her loved ones throughout her journey.

Family and friends are invited to gather for Calling Hours from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, June 22, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A Memorial Service celebrating Barbara’s life will be held at a later date, at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Faith & Family Hospice or the Worcester County Beekeepers Association, honoring Barbara's deep faith, passion for beekeeping, and dedication to serving others.