03/22/2026
Deceased: Barbara M. Paul
Date of Death: March 16, 2026
Barbara M. Paul (formally Coolican) 89, passed away peacefully Monday at St. Joseph’s Hospital with her family by her side. She graduated from Most Holy Rosary in 1954. Upon graduation, she began her career at the NY Telephone Company where she proudly served as a Union Steward, advocating for the rights of her fellow employees. During these years, she formed lasting friendships and enjoyed traveling the world. In 1972, she married the love of her life, Gregory. Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, and proud Aunt to her many nieces and nephews. She was especially known for her beautifully decorated cakes and cookies, which were a highlight of family celebrations for many years. She retired from NY Telephone Company in 1977 to raise her children. Following the death of her husband, she returned to work at Dey Brother’s in Fairmount, where she managed the Crabtree & Evelyn shop until the store’s closing.
She later worked at M&T Bank until her retirement. Barbie will be remembered for her strong will, vibrant presence, and sense of humor, she was loved by all who knew her. Her family would like to thank the truly wonderful St. Joseph’s 2-4 hospital staff whose love and compassion went above and beyond to bring her comfort during her final weeks. They would also like to thank the staff at Iroquois Nursing Home for the care and support that allowed Barbara and her family more time these past few years. She was very proud to be the Gift Shop Employee of the Year.
Barbara is predeceased by her husband, Gregory, her parents Frank and Ruth Coolican, her brother Ronald, brother-in law Charles Detor, sister-in –laws, Mary, Patricia and Rosemary and nephew Martin Coolican.
She is survived by her children, David and Mary Beth, her sister Nancy Detor, her brothers Richard and Edward Coolican and many nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be Sunday, March 22 from 3:00pm-5:00 pm at Whelan Bros. & Hulchanski Funeral Home, 5854 Belle Isle Road, Syracuse, NY 13209. The funeral will be held on Monday, March 23 at 10:00 am at St. Joseph’s Church, 5600 West Genesee Street, Camillus, NY 13031. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Dewitt, NY
In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the St. Joseph’s Food Pantry.
Whelan Bros. & Hulchanski
Funeral Home.
5854 Belle Isle Road,
Syracuse, NY 13209