Obituary of Barbara Ann Canellis

Died Sunday, April 17th of complications from colon cancer. Visitation is 2-4 & 7-9 PM on Tuesday, April 19th and funeral service Wednesday, April 20th @ 9 AM at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung followed by a 10 AM Mass of Resurrection of St. Mary's Stony Hill Church, Watchung. Interment immediately following at St. Mary's Stony Hill Cemetery on Plainfield Ave., Watchung. To send condolences please go to www.higginsfuneralhome.com Born and raised in Elizabeth, she resided in Watchung with her husband and dancing partner of 50 years, George W. Canellis, Esq. She was predeceased by her parents William Miller and Mae Petrew Miller to whom she owed the early nickname "Baby Snooks". She is survived by her sister & brother-n-law, Nancy & A. Edward Shernius of East Brunswick. She also leaves her children: William G. Canellis (& wife, Juli) of Watchung, Karen Canellis of McLean, VA, Barbara Canellis Adams (& husband, Brian) of Flemington, NJ & Diana Canellis of Watchung. She enjoyed her 5 grandchildren: Austin, Logan, & Morgan Adams; George & Colin Canellis. Barbara enjoyed travel, the theater, gardening and was highly regarded for her talents in cooking, interior design and decor. She loved American history, but her overriding interest was in the NY Yankees. She followed her team ardently since watching games on TV as a child with her beloved grandfather William (Hook) Miller. Barbara worked as a secretary at Daystrom Instruments in Newark, before starting her family. She also held a Real Estate license and co-managed real estate investments with her husband. She was a graduate of Battin High School in Elizabeth, and attended courses at Kean University. Barbara was a devoted wife and mother for whom family came first and she loved the time spent with all who could visit her on LBI in the summer and Pompano Beach, FL in the winters. And try to tear her away from a good book. She also found time to successfully coach Watchung Ponytail Leagues for several years in the 80's. In lieu of flowers those wishing may make donation to Watchung Rescue Squad, 10 Stirliing Road, Watchung, NJ 07069.