Barbara J. (Colangelo) Folan

FOLAN, BARBARA J. (Colangelo) of Norwood passed away on August 11, 2023, at the age of 87. Beloved wife of Thomas J. Folan Jr. Devoted mother of Thomas J. Folan III and his wife Andrea, of Rochester, NY, and James M. Folan and Paul J. Folan, both of Norwood. Twin sister of the late Beverly J. Coitrone. Cherished grandmother of Emily Folan. Daughter of the late James M. and Marion (Myers) Colangelo of Meriden, Connecticut.


Barbara was a very active member of the St. Catherine's of Sienna community and devoted to her Sodality work. She worked as a receptionist at the Norwood Transcript for many years, and as such was deeply connected to Norwood happenings. Barbara later enjoyed her work as a library assistant at Norwood High School after previously serving in the same capacity at the Norwood South Jr. High School. She particularly enjoyed interacting with students and assisting them in locating library materials. An avid runner, Barbara competed in many road races over more than three decades, often either placing or outright winning many races in her age group. Barbara was also an excellent dancer and, along with her husband Tom, attended classes over the years, learning a variety of dances, which they often showed off on the dance floor whenever they had the opportunity. Barbara and Tom loved to travel. Her favorite destinations were Puerto Rico, Bermuda, Ireland, Germany, and Italy. Most recently, Barbara was active at the Norwood Senior Center, where she regularly attended exercise classes, further demonstrating her interest in and enjoyment of physical activities. In addition, Barbara loved music and would listen to everything from classical piano to jazz and traditional Irish folk music, and could often be found at the Summer Concert Series on the Norwood Common.


Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, from 4-8 pm at the Kraw-Kornack Funeral Home 1248 Washington St. Norwood, MA. A funeral mass will be held on Thursday, August 17, 2023, at 11 am at St. Catherine of Siena Church, Norwood. Following the funeral mass, the burial will be at Highland Cemetery, Norwood, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barbara's name to the American Heart Association, 300 5th Ave. #6 Waltham, MA 02451.