Barbara Dolan
Barbara Dolan, 71, of West Roxbury, Massachusetts (formerly of Duxbury, Massachusetts) passed peacefully at home in the presence of loved ones on October 3, 2025.
Born on May 29, 1954 in Brooklyn, New York, Barbara moved to Boston to attend Emmanuel College and came to love her adopted city where she built a beautiful and unique life.
Barbara worked in the field of mental health throughout the Boston area for over 30 years, as a clinical social worker, educator and administrator. A woman of many talents, she additionally pursued interests in fields as diverse as secondary education, dog rescue, and Irish imports.
An active and hardy New Englander, Barbara was at her happiest rowing at sunrise on Duxbury Bay, cross-country skiing frigid trails in Vermont and biking the backroads of the South Shore and Cape Cod.
Always one for a challenge, Barbara regularly participated in regional regattas and completed the Pan-Mass Challenge several times. Her strong work ethic and determination was an inspiration to her loved ones, and uplifted anyone who knew her.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents Ray and Marie Dolan and sister Sharyn Dolan.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 41 years, Bennet Epstein; son Jake Epstein (Elizabeth); sisters Kim and Kerry Dolan; and loyal companion, Griffin.
She will be remembered by all for her warm and loving nature, tenacious spirit, intellect, and wisdom.
Friends and family are invited to a graveside service and celebration of Barbara’s life at
The Gardens at Gethsemane
670 Baker Street
West Roxbury, Massachusetts 02132
Tuesday October 7 at 11:00am
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donating to an organization dear to Barbara’s heart.