Barbara Butcher Henderson Rarrick

Cherished and beloved, Barbara Butcher Henderson Rarrick, 89, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on April 10, 1935, in Rochester, NY, to Dorothy and Charles Butcher, Barbara was their adored only child. Raised with values of compassion and kindness, she dedicated her life to nurturing her family and spreading love to all who knew her.

Barbara is predeceased by her two devoted husbands: Richard W. Henderson (1956 - 1994) and Harold Rarrick (1996 - 2013). She is survived by her three daughters, Darlene (Walt) Isaac, Denise Henderson, and Valerie Henderson (Andrea Werlin); six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren, all of whom she treasured deeply. Barbara’s family was the heart of her world, and her legacy of unconditional love will live on through them.

A graduate of Charlotte High School, Barbara spent her summers on Lake Ontario with her grandparents, fostering a lifelong love for lake life. She pursued early childhood education at Stephens College from 1953 to 1955, a reflection of her tenderhearted spirit. Barbara was a teacher at Al Sigl in Rochester, NY before having her own children. She empowered independence in young children with disabilities.

Barbara was a social butterfly who fostered an array of friendships in her long life. She enriched the lives of others with her quick wit, humor, and boundless generosity. Her dedication to caregiving extended beyond her family to her church community, where she faithfully served for over 60 years. Always ready to lend an ear or a helping hand, Barbara embodied selflessness and compassion.

In 1986, Barbara and Richard built a beautiful lake home on Keuka Lake, a special retreat where she passed on her love of “lake life” to her family. She enjoyed entertaining friends and family and felt such peace at her beloved lake.

A remembrance service will be held on February 15, 2025, 2 pm, at the First Presbyterian Church of Pittsford, 21 Church St, Pittsford, NY, with handicap accessible parking located on Locust St. Following the service there will be a celebration of Barbara’s life in the Church Fellowship Hall. Friends and family are invited to share their treasured memories of Barbara during the celebration, ensuring that her spirit of love and togetherness continues for generations.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Barbara’s honor to: Family Promise of Greater Rochester, fpgroc.org, or to KMB for Answers, Inc. KMBforanswers.com.