Obituary of Barbara Albro

Barbara Ann (Gates) Albro passed away peacefully on May 18th in the home she cherished for 63 years, surrounded by her loving family. She was the only child of Harold and Thelma VanPatten Cummings Gates. Barbara spent a joyful childhood on Highland Avenue in McGraw, where her family owned Gates Greenhouse. Her neighborhood was filled with lifelong friends, including her first love and future husband, Dick Albro, who asked Barbara to marry him when they were in third grade. Barbara graduated from McGraw Central School, where she enjoyed cheerleading and band, served as head majorette, and became a skilled marksman in the rifle club. She later attended Morrisville College, earning her practical nursing license. Barbara married Dick Albro while he was serving in the United States Army, which brought the couple first to an army base in Boston, Massachusetts. A later move to Syracuse was quickly followed by the purchase of their beloved home on Little York Lake. Together, Barbara and Dick built a life centered on family and love, raising their three daughters: Nicole Albro (Wade Sprouse), Danielle Albro (Christopher Sasso), and Kelli Yacavone (Mark). Barbara's greatest joy was her family, which grew to include eight grandsons: Talon, Saxon, Dyson, Dante, Carson, Seaver, Colby, and Dylan, as well as her great-granddaughter, Adriana, and great-grandson, Dane. Barbara worked for many years with the New York State Department of Labor, where she was remembered for her kindness and the compassionate support she provided to individuals during difficult periods of unemployment. During her years with the state, many coworkers became like family, especially her dear friends Linda and Marlene. Throughout her life, Barbara traveled extensively and especially enjoyed visiting her daughter in Texas. While she treasured those adventures, her true calling was the warm and welcoming home she created for others. Her home was always filled with family, friends, and beloved animals. Barbara was a wonderful cook, and everyone was welcome at Sunday dinners, corn roasts, Fourth of July celebrations, and Christmas cookie-baking gatherings, where family members competed fiercely in the annual decorating contest. No story about Barbara would be complete without mentioning her incredible strength, unwavering determination, and the fierce love and support she gave so freely to those around her. Her family always knew that no matter what life brought, they could return home and be welcomed with open arms. There is now a space in the Albro family that can never truly be filled, but Barbara's memory will live on through the love, traditions, and countless cherished moments she leaves behind. Calling hours will be Sunday May 31, 2026, 11 am-1pm at the Wright-Beard Funeral Home inc., 9 Lincoln Av., Cortland NY, 13045. A graveside service will follow at the Elmwood Cemetery at 1:30 pm. Contributions may be made to CNY SNAP, 17 Salisbury St., Cortland NY, 13045