Barbara Larsen, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and dedicated educator, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, surrounded by her children and their spouses.  Born on March 19, 1930, to Eva (Williams) Stevens and Mansur Stevens, she was one of eight siblings, and lived a life filled with kindness, sharp wit, and a passion for teaching.  Barbara married the love of her life, Harry Larsen, on December 31, 1954, and they shared a loving marriage until his passing on February 15, 2016.

Barbara was a devoted teacher, earning her degree from Plymouth Teachers College (now Plymouth State University) in 1952.  She began her teaching career in Walpole, NH, where she met Harry.  In 1964, they moved to Salem, NH, where she joined the faculty at the former Woodbury High School, and soon after transitioning to Salem High School when it opened in 1966.  Beloved by her students, Barbara taught typing, shorthand, and note hand in the business education department, where her dedication, warmth, and humor made a lasting impact.  Many of her former students fondly remember her engaging teaching style and the life lessons she imparted.  She took pride in decorating her classroom's bulletin board to reflect the season or a special occasion and in offering words of wisdom to inspire those around her.  After more than three decades of teaching, she retired in 1988.

Beyond the classroom, Barbara had a sharp mind and love of games.  She enjoyed crossword puzzles, Michigan Rummy nights with family, and teaching her grandchildren how to play Kings in the Corner.  She cherished family gatherings and cookouts, and long summer vacations on Cape Cod, and the laughter-filled outings with her teacher friends.  A longtime member and treasurer of Tenney Methodist Church, she was deeply involved in her faith and community.

Barbara adored her great-grandchildren Helix and Liora, often saying they "lit up her day."  A passionate baseball fan, she never missed her children's baseball games and had a deep love for the Boston Red Sox.  It was common to hear the Red Sox game playing on the TV whenever visiting her home.

Barbara was predeceased by her beloved husband, Harry Larsen, her parents, Mansur and Eva (Williams) Stevens, and her siblings Harriet (Stevens) Hannigan, Elizabeth "Betty" Stevens, Mansur "Steve" Stevens, Thomas Stevens, and John Stevens.  She was also preceded in death by several cherished in-laws.  She is survived by her loving sons, Robert "Bob" and Lisa (Morgano) Larsen, Steven and Gwen (Hurwitz) Larsen, and Alan Larsen; her adored grandchildren, Samuel "Sam" Larsen, Evan Larsen, and Brianna (Larsen) Michel and her husband Anderson Michel; and her great-grandchildren, Helix and Liora Michel, who brought her immense joy.  She also leaves behind her dear siblings, Charles Stevens and Carolyn "Kay" (Stevens) Rozzi, along with many extended family members who were a cherished part of her life.

Barbara was blessed to have the unwavering support of her son Alan, whose dedication ensured she could remain at home, as well as the companionship of Kristin Walton, whose presence brought her joy and conversation during the day, as well as her granddaughter Brianna Michel, who spent the afternoons with her, ensuring she felt secure and comfortable in her home.  Their kindness, love, and support made it possible for Barbara to remain in the place she loved most.

Barbara's legacy of love, laughter, and devotion to family and community will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.  She will be dearly missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those she touched.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Barbara's memory to the "Food for the Hungry" Food Pantry (please send checks made out to the "Food for the Hungry" Food Pantry to: Pleasant St. UMC, 8 Pleasant St. Salem, NH 03079), or Dollars for Scholars for Salem NH (https://salemnh.dollarsforscholars.org), two causes she supported and believed in.

Friends and family are invited to calling hours on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, from 9:30 – 11:30 AM with a service beginning at 11:30 at the Carrier Family Funeral Home, 38 Range Road, Windham, NH 03087. Burial will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery in Salem. To leave a message of condolence, please visit www.carrierfuneralhome.com