Barbara Kukura-Matyas was born on Friday, September10, 1943, in Elizabeth, NJ and passed away at home in Basking Ridge, NJ, surrounded by loved ones, on Monday, May 25, 2026. 

In the poem “The Dash”, we are reminded that, when someone passes, memorials usually start with three important elements: date of birth, date of death and everything in between (the dash).  It is that dash that makes Barbara shine like too few people do.

Barbara’s early life was humble. At 19, Barbara welcomed her only daughter, Cathy, and raised her with the same kindness, generosity, compassion and grace she brought to the lives of so many others. From a young age, she became a mother figure to her two sisters, Linda Ogden and the late Donna Miedowicz. Always giving much and asking for nothing in return.

Barbara was also an inspiration and confidante to the niece and nephews she so cherished.  Donna’s son, Stephen, was first, followed years later by Linda’s children, Chrissy, Brian and Kevin.  She cherished all the moments spent with them.  Each of the four undoubtedly have their own favorite memory of a selfless and loving Aunt Barbara, even though those memories are so numerous. 

Chrissy’s and Kevin’s kids (Chrissy’s Jake and Maddie; Kevin’s Liam) may not remember Aunt Barbara, but she was such an inspirational and loving person that our memories will become theirs.  Stories of heroes never get old.

Barbara was a loving stepmother to her husband Joe’s daughters - Kristin, Sharon and Elena - and a very proud grandmother to Sharon’s sons Joseph (J.T.) and Wyatt and Elena’s daughter, Roxie.

Barbara did not go to college, nor did she inherit wealth. Yet through hard work, strength, and unwavering character, she achieved success and a life rich in spirit. She built a long and respected career, first as a Real Estate Agent and then as a Real Estate Broker, earning a place in the Million Dollar Club more times than anyone could count. But what mattered most was not the recognition but the way Barbara earned it: with honesty, integrity, leadership, and deep empathy. She carried many clients through some of life’s most stressful moments.  To them “Barb” was more than a realtor, she was a steady hand, a trusted guide, and truly a source of comfort.  So many became Barbara’s repeat clients, and she earned new clients through the referrals from these folks.  That speaks volumes.

Barbara was also a mentor to budding agents, helping them build successful careers.  She managed real estate offices for many years.  But even when she was not managing, she brought her selfless and caring nature to help others.

All work and no play is not good for anyone, and Barbara was no exception.  Barbara and her late husband Joe bought a timeshare in Aruba decades ago.  Barbara always looked forward to this annual January respite in paradise.  She would spend countless hours relaxing and reading by the pool and on the beach, an indulgence we all knew she deserved.  She and Joe did enjoy the occasional jaunt to the casino, whether in Aruba or back home in New Jersey.

Barbara’s “dash” was well-spent and is inspirational.  She used it as a time to bring happiness, comfort and love to those who meant so much to her, and even strangers. The “Dash” says “For it matters not, how much we own, the cars…the house…the cash.  What matters is how we live and love and how we spend our dash.”  It’s too late to ask if Barbara knew of this poem, but boy did she live it.

Barbara is survived by so many who will miss her dearly.  Among this group: Her daughter and son-in-law Cathy and Pat Curham; sister, Linda Ogden; nephew and wife, Stephen and Lesley Miedowicz; niece and husband, Chrissy and Matt Andrikowich; nephew Brian Ogden, nephew and his wife, Kevin and Courtney Ogden; grand-niece and nephews, Jake Andrikowich, Maddie Andrikowich and Liam Ogden; stepdaughters, Kristin Bewick and husband Brian; Sharon Matyas and spouse Lisa Sadowski; grandsons, Joseph (J.T.) Matyas and Wyatt Matyas.

Having pre-deceased Barbara and now welcoming her return home: husband, Joseph Matyas; father, Edward Krol; mother, Dorothy Krol; sister, Donna Miedowicz; brother-in-law, Steve Miedowicz; aunt, Dee Messina; stepdaughter, Elena; granddaughter, Roxie.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to St. Judes.