Barbara Simpson Novello

1947 – 2021

74 years old
Born on July 15, 1947 in DuBois, PA
Graduated to Heaven on September 8, 2021 in Franklin, TN

Barbara Novello

I'm at such peace...

Thank you kindly for any donations* which will be used to cover all expenses related to Barbara Novello’s passing.

 A Personal Message
from John Novello

Barb was an Angel sent from Heaven…

In January 2000, a year after I had become a widower, my first high school sweetheart emailed me saying, “Hey John, do you remember me, Barb Simpson?”

What a breath of fresh air, I thought. The sparks began to fly, and I realized that God had sent me an Angel – my real soulmate – and it wasn’t long that we were inseparable for over 20 wondrous years!

But then on Sept 8, 2021 after a few days of unexpected medical complications that were not resolving, my Angel passed due to “hypertensive heart disease”.

That said, it was all very spiritual, and self-determined. Before she passed, she was staring at our bedroom wall for over five minutes or so, apparently having an Angelic visitation, and knew she was going to God, as afterwards she said, “For the first time I just have such peace! I’m not afraid to die.” Shortly thereafter she passed quietly in bed with a smile on her face!

So, on one hand it is with great sadness that I announce my wife Barbara Novello has left this earthly dimension. But on the other hand it was my great honor that she chose me to be her forever-friend and soulmate these last 20 years, which I will cherish forever. Her family and I are devastated but we take great comfort that she left this world at peace and is in a better place.

I will be celebrating her life of love and service to others until our next rendezvous. She was and still is a giant of a being and uplifted everybody she encountered. She was a genius Interior Designer but more importantly a loving wife, mother and grandparent.  Although she was extremely happy here in Franklin, TN, in our new home and with all our new friends, I’m sure she is being well taken care of in Heaven!

Thank you, honey, for your twenty plus years of love and devotion – your work is done here. Don’t look back. You’re in God’s hands now!

Eternal love,

Your Jazzman! (Her nickname for me)

 

P.S. There will be a celebration of life event  January 31, 2022 in Franklin, TN, so see details below.

See our story details at johnnovelloauthor.com

Barbara & John Novello
Barbara Novello
Barbara Novello
Barbara Novello

BARBARA SIMPSON NOVELLO

1947 – 2021

Barbara was born in DuBois, Pennsylvania on July 15, 1947, as Barbara Lynn Simpson. She lived in DuBois until the summer of 1960 when she moved to Erie, Pennsylvania with her family. She attended Erie Strong Vincent High School and was a Majorette in the Marching Band.

Upon graduation, she moved to Washington, DC and was employed by various companies. Her natural Interior Designer skills allowed her to acquire excellent Management positions including working for the US Secretary of Energy, Mr. Samuel Bodman and the Bodman Family, and later while living in Los Angeles, California working for Tom Cruise after which she happily retired with her husband John Novello to Franklin, Tennessee. Her great love was Interior Design, and she was quite successful while at The Pineapple, Inc. in Old Town Alexandria and then in her own business redesigning homes for many families and celebrities!

She is survived by her loving husband, John Novello whom she married in 2005, her three children, Kristin Johnson and her granddaughter, Alyssa of Brandon, Florida, Kimberly Johnson and her granddaughter Allison Dodson of Palmyra, Virginia, and Kathryn Padgett her husband Kenneth and her granddaughters Samantha and Stephanie of Gainesville, Virginia and her loving sister, Sherry Simpson Jessup of Mason Neck, Virginia. 

 She was preceded in death by her Mother, Elizabeth Bundy Orr Simpson and her Father, Frank Lynn Simpson, her brother Charles Martin Simpson, her husband Thomas Johnson and her nephews, Charles Daniel McMahon and Robert Paul McMahon.

If you were to ask her though what  she was most proud of in her life, she would without hesitation say having and raising a family. She loved her children and grandchildren beyond words!

She will be buried in DuBois, Pennsylvania at Morningside Cemetery October 8 at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, please visit barbaranovellomemorialfund.com at which you can see pictures, share stories and comments and/or make donations to the Memorial Fund.

She was a great Patriot and loved her Country, her family, and her friends. She definitely made the world a better place with her love, laughter and caring-service to others and although she will be missed beyond words, she will be in our hearts forever!

Barbara Novello avatar

Barb & John Platinum Award

Celebration of Life Video from Jan. 31st

Donations

My Angel passed away Sept 8th suddenly, within a few days of symptoms, due to “hypertensive heart disease”. We want to thank everyone for all the kind words, love and support they’ve already shown us throughout this unexpected and sudden tragedy. It means more to us than words can say. We are now raising money through this memorial site to cover the cost of funeral services/cremation/memorial services and immediate family support in their time of need. Thank you!

* Your donation is tax-deductible

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Barbara and John Novello

84 Comments

  1. John Novello

    The only thing I can say is I miss you and I love you beyond words and you will live in my heart forever! You are with God and the Angels in Heaven which gives me great comfort my love. I’m honored you chose me to share your life with this last 20 years. You are my one and only true love! Until our next rendezvous,

    Your Jazzman Forever!

    Reply
    • Kim

      John, I’m so sorry sweet Barbara was taken so suddenly. We are always here for you. Love and hugs!

      Reply
      • Coury

        What a joy it was to have Barbara and John to move in across the street from us. We became great friends in a short time and to love Barb so much. It seemed like she would bring us yummy desserts or flowers all the time. She was so loving and genuine, and is so missed. We continue to pray peace and comfort over John and all
        the family. We love you.

        Reply
  2. Ben Zarai

    Barbara was a wonderful, loving person, one of those special people who makes you feel happier by just being around her. I will cherish my memories of her.

    Reply
  3. Gary & Mary Boldt

    John, Mary and I are so sorry for your loss, we had so much fun with you guys this summer. We miss Barbara too, every day. See you soon.

    Reply
    • John Novello

      We all had a blast during your visit – she adored you guys!

      Reply
    • Barbara Lee

      I talked to Barbara once on the phone. She seemed like such a nice person

      Reply
  4. Dawn Ann Ritter

    I’m a new patriot friend to Barbara – but upon our first meeting I instantly adored her. She was bright and vivacious, and I respected what she had to say about the world, and current political news.
    She was taken too suddenly, and will be very missed?

    Reply
    • Kim

      I had a similar experience upon meeting Barbara for the first time. She is missed!

      Reply
  5. Carmine and Linda Carullo

    Although we only knew Barb for a few months we had become fast friends….her and I were like sisters from different mothers , truly .. We always looked so forward to seeing her and we will never forget her. She was a beautiful woman, a gracious hostess , an elegant interior designer , always kind and helpful to everyone she met , a loving mother and grandmother. Her face would light up when speaking of her large, precious family,

    We were newcomers to Franklin , TN when we met and knowing her helped us to feel settled in our new community . We will truly miss her smile, her vivaciousness, her zest for life , her sense of adventures yet to come…
    Rest In Peace , Barb.
    We love and miss you.
    So sorry for your loss , John
    Carmine and Linda

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Thank you so so much! She adored you guys!

      Reply
    • Kim Done

      As two new transplants from CA to Franklin, Barb and I hit it off quickly. We enjoyed talking about our families, decorating and American patriotism. Barbara loved John and I could see the admiration in her eyes when he played the piano. She loved her children and grandchildren too, and loved to tell stories about them as children. A talented and thoughtful interior designer, she loved all things beauty and appreciated quality and class. Whenever, we would enter a home decor store, Barbara would nearly leap out of her skin with excitement while she looked at all the pretty things. On one of our shopping trips, she bought a beautiful and dramatic cloche and proudly displayed yummy treats in it on her island. Most of all, and now I’m crying, Barbara seemed genuinely excited to see me each time we met, which is a treasured gift to me now as most people in our lives don’t “beam”when they greet us. She would say “hey you” and give me a big hug. After our house flooded in March, Barbara and John showed up with arm fulls of food. Barbara took home several loads of flood soiled linens and washed them for days. She stood by my kitchen sink for hours washing my sons lego sets with a toothbrush though her knee was hurting her. Friend, I miss you! I hate that you left us. I’m sure you are setting the angels in heaven straight and redecorating the place to be even better than it was before your arrival. I’ll love you forever!

      Reply
  6. Vinnie

    Hey John, so so sorry to hear about Barb’s passing. I was just talking with our buddy Matthew about it. We were reminiscing about how we all met up which is a great story.

    Matthew was working as a roving IT support tech and Barb frequently called him for support when she was at The Pineapple here in Alexandria. Around the same time, I say to Matthew, “dude you have to check out Niacin. You know Dennis since you are a drummer and we grew up watching Billy and DLR and they are with this incredible keyboard player just crankin out the trio jams.”

    I swear it wasn’t a month later he hands me a copy of the Live in Tokyo Blue Note video and says, “get this craziness, so I’m working on a computer at Barb’s shop and she asks, ‘you like music right, you play don’t you’ which I said yes. Then she says ‘my husband’s in a band called Niacin ?'” Matthew just busts out laughing and says, “Barb, my buddy Vinnie was just turning me onto them recently !!!!”

    We had the pleasure of sitting with her and friends at The Birchmere months later. A killer stage for you guys right in my home town. Amazing night !!

    I hope you will be well John. Keeping ya in prayer and comforting to know she’s watching one helluva gig up there and with the best Hands.

    Reply
  7. Mike and Sheila Atkinson

    Oh John, that is a wonderful narrative on Barbara’s life! She was everything and more!
    I have the sweetest memories of her at all the meetings that she attended! We, Sheila and I are so sorry for your loss! We know that we will join her some day, and we will all be laughing and singing like old times!

    Reply
  8. Steve Donato

    I was fortunate enough to have known Barb for the past year and a half. I only regret that I hadn’t met her sooner. I remember the first time we met at the house in North Hollywood, CA. We bonded instantly. I knew this was an amazing person – smart, caring, and with a warm jovial energy that filled the room. We talked and talked, about everything.

    I recently visited John and Barb at their new digs in Franklin, TN. Barb treated me like a 5-star celebrity in her home. She was extremely gracious, kind and loving. Both her and John have become like family to me. I am saddened by her departure from this world, as there is one less amazing soul to shed light where it is desperately needed. However, I know she is with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

    Be at peace, Barb. We will take care of John until you see him again. God bless you, sweet spirit!

    Reply
  9. Doc Holladay

    Though I knew Barbara for a comparatively short time, I adored her and her warm and generous spirit. She was a person who sought truth, spoke truth, and lived truth, with absolute integrity. That’s a rare thing in this world, and I was blessed by the time I was around her. We shared ideas, information, music, and friendship. She will be deeply missed.

    Reply
  10. Geoff Levin

    When I was having a tough time in life Barb and John were always so gracious and willing to have me over for dinner to bolster my confidence and fatten me up. Barb was a wonderful cook and home maker and she always made me feel welcome.

    Reply
  11. Carolyn Miner

    I extend my deepest sympathy to John, Barb’s husband, to Kristin, Kim, and Kate, her daughters, and her sister Sherry.

    Barb was such a bright light and our hearts were broken when she left us. She was so loving and generous. Before I had met her, she left an amaryllis bulb on our front porch to wish us a Happy Thanksgiving. Next, it was a box of Trader Joe’s cocoa truffles. When she came over for the first time, she brought a gorgeous vase of pink tulips with a blue gingham ribbon. (Ever the great designer!) Barb and I shared a love of hydrangeas. I will always think of her when I gather them from my backyard.

    It was always fun getting together with Barb. Her smile and laugh could brighten any room. Heaven and the angels get to enjoy her companionship now. Love and miss you, Barb!!

    Reply
  12. Lynn and Bruce Atwater

    John, we are so very sorry for your loss. Barbara was one special gal and I so loved our friendship. We shared so many good times here in Los Angeles. Loved hearing of all the friends you two were making and your adventures in Tennessee, Glad that she was very content in her new home with you. And wonderful that these new friends have surrounded you in your time of grief to comfort you. I miss her and think of her most every day and always will. Thank you for posting this great tribute to her. Only wish that we lived closer to be able to share in her memorial services.

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Thanks for this comment and absolutely love this picture! She adored you!!!

      Reply
  13. Terry Trotter & Erica Farber

    We miss her smile, the wonderful meals she made and her love of the south. We also love how much she loved you John. We were so excited for your journey from Los Angeles to Franklin and know how happy Barb was with the move. Knowing how much she loved putting her personal touch on everything we can only imagine how beautiful the home she made is and how much joy it brought to the both of you. She was taken away much too early but we know she continues to look out for you John and we hope her new journey is one filled with light and joy!

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Thank you for your beautiful words! Comforting to the both of us – onward in love!

      Reply
  14. Steve Done

    It was only a year ago that I met Barb at High Brow Cafe.. She was just such a blessing that I called Kim (my wife) and said you must meet Barb. We quickly became very close and both Kim and I considered Barb a “sister” in the Lord. Barb I know I told you this before you fell ill.. “I love You” and you were such a blessing in our life. Barb was always so kind and present when you needed a friend. I will miss your smile as you always lit up the room when I saw you. I know you are lighting up heaven with the Lord as I am writing this message. I know how much you loved John and all of your children! I know how much you loved Kim and I. I thank God that He put you in our lives and your positive impact on both of us was another blessing from God. You were a true Angel and will be missed. Barb, please don’t worry about John as I know as you look down from Heaven we are going to spend plenty of time with Him, and I am so glad that you knew that John also loved you very much! I look forward to seeing you soon and I am sure you are at peace in the Lords arms. We love you and will continue to be in our hearts, forever until we see you in Heaven. In Gods Love, your little-brother, Steve!

    Reply
  15. Matt C

    I didn’t know her but she seems like a lovely lady whenever John would speak about her. Sorry to hear of the loss and may God heal the brokenness left behind.

    Reply
  16. Sophie Carpenter

    As I told John, it would be easier for me to write a cd of songs about my memories of Barb than a paragraph. I feel such a flood of emotions. I knew Barb for 14 years. A short time but with Barb, an afternoon having lunch, getting a facial and hitting T.J. Maxx sustained me with love and true kindness until our next time together. Barb validated and showered everyone she met with positive vibes, especially those who were lucky enough to call her a friend. I miss her. She left me with memories of someone who cared deeply about people, who loved without limits, her beautiful daughters and grand children, her dear sister and family. She talked about them all the time with devotion and pride. I could barely keep up with the stories of raising her kids, adoring her grand children and her amazing times with the shop she and Sherry had in D. C. . I was touched by her spiritual strength and generosity. She taught me that it’s possible and attainable to rise above personal pain and and to let the light from inside shine. I could tell, over the years her physical pains and discomforts were creeping up and becoming next to intolerable. Still, you’d never know it. She never showed it. My prayers to John, Sherry, her beloved girls and their children.

    Reply
  17. Marie Robertson

    Barbara was my BFF and confidant for the last ten years. I had mixed emotions when you moved to Tennessee. On one had I would miss her so much but on the other hand I knew she was ready for a change. We would go to Starbucks at the mall almost every morning. We would discuss everything. Some days there would be tears but most days we would laugh and just enjoy each other’s company. We were kindred spirits on so many levels and both “Jersey Girls”.

    My heart is sad for you, John as well as Kristin and Alyssa, Kim and Allyson and Kate and her family and Sherry. The loss is heartbreaking.

    I will miss our dinners with the four of us enjoying your music and sipping wine. Mostly I will miss her smile.

    Be at peace my friend. ❤️ Marie

    Reply
  18. Gary & Mary Boldt

    One of our favorite dinners with Barbara & John a few years ago at Colao’s in Erie, so much fun. We miss you Barbara.

    Reply
  19. Kim Johnson

    Rest In Peace Mom. I’m overwhelmed by all of the kind words and memories your friends are sharing.

    I love you!

    Love, Kimmy ❤

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Indeed Kim! She was an inspiration and uplifting to everybody who knew her and is deeply missed!!!

      Reply
  20. Tracey Johns

    John, Jett and I would never have imagined that a Facebook Marketplace posting would have connected us with two such sweet, genuine, and patriotic people! You complemented one another so well! Barbara was really a special person….and an absolute delight. We so enjoyed our dinners with you two. And the invitation to your home for dessert and a special private tour of your studio (with a mini concert) was very special. We so appreciated the meals (and wine!) you two brought for us after Jett and I both had our surgeries; so thoughtful and gracious. Our times together we’re definitely cut too short, but we feel we’ve made a friend in you, John, and want you to know we are here for you if the need ever arises. Barb will be sorely missed by us all here on earth, but she is celebrating now in Heaven where she can rest with no worries. In that knowledge, we can find peace.

    Reply
  21. Bruce Chianese

    I remember whenever I would come to John’s house for a music lesson Barb would greet me with her cheerful voice and give me a friendly smile. She was always upbeat and positive, and very supportive. I will miss her dearly.

    Reply
  22. Kristin Johnson

    Dear Mom,
    I wish I knew you would be moving to heaven when I saw you over the Summer. God knows I would have hugged you tighter & soaked in the precious moments we had a little longer. You think you have “time” but that’s a lie- tomorrow is never promised. I miss you & am so happy to know you’re enjoying the wonders of heaven. I’m sure you’re making a list of all the fun places to show us when we get there. John, thank you for taking care of my mom for the last 20 years. She was proud to be your wife & loved you through and through.
    Thank you to all the friends & neighbors that shared their stories of love for my mom.
    May God bless all who have cared for John during this difficult time. Your support and friendship have been priceless; you truly are the hands & feet of Jesus.
    Love, Kristin

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Well said Kristin…she was a giant of a being and still is an inspiration! I was honored she chose me to be her partner and although we are all deeply saddened that her form has left the earthly plane, her spirit form lives on in Heaven and continues to work magic!

      Reply
  23. Alan & Melody Howarth

    If you are reading this from your new home, please know that you are truly missed and we were so grateful to share life with you.

    Reply
  24. Alan & Melody Howarth

    With Barb in so many memories

    Reply
  25. Alan & Melody Howarth

    Barb’s favorite place to be !

    Reply
  26. Marianne Adams

    To know Barb was to love her! She was a ray of sunshine in my life and will forever be in my heart. It’s hard to believe that Barb and John moved here to Franklin just a little over a year ago. It was as if we had known each other forever and Barb became a dear friend, neighbor, and more like family immediately. Barb would constantly leave cute little gift bags at our front door filled with her amazing chocolate cupcakes, cookies, and other thoughtful treats. She was so thoughtful, selfless, generous and always put everyone first. Barb never met a stranger. When we would go out for coffee and shopping in Downtown Franklin, the store owners and cafe owners all knew Barb and she knew them by name. She would be introducing me (I’ve lived in Franklin for 20 years…she’s been here 1year)Everyone knew Barb and Barb knew everyone by name. To know Barb is to love her! We are so blessed that God brought Barb and John to the house across the street! We have a lifetime of memories made in a year! From dinners, coffee talks, nights of music at the piano, Johns first speeding ticket in Bellemead, to name a few❤️ Barb I love you! We love you. I miss your sweet smile and your encouraging words. I know you are healed and whole with Jesus in Heaven. I’m so thankful goodbye is not forever and we will see each other again in paradise!! Until we meet again!!!
    Love you
    Marianne

    Reply
  27. Tyler Whetsell

    I met Barbara and John almost a year ago in Franklin, TN right before I moved there myself. Even though I didn’t know Barb long, it was evident that she walked with The Lord. She was so kind and loving towards me and was a beacon of light to all who knew her. In some of ways I saw her as my Nashville Mom. She always reached out just to let me know she was thinking of me. She cooked a delicious meal and sent me home with leftovers and a care package because that’s just who Barbara was. I’ll miss her terribly, but thankful that one day we’ll see each other again in Heaven. It was an honor to know her.

    Reply
  28. Tyler Whetsell

    This was a picture taken when my mom and I had first met John and Barb in TN. I still think back on this day often. 🙂

    Reply
  29. Ken Jones

    Barbara was a very special person. Whenever I would visit the Novello’s,, she would make me feel like I was an honored guest. The home environment was always pleasant because of the little things she would do. You will be missed. Godspeed!

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Thx a mil Ken! She liked you…!

      Reply
  30. Michelle Carlbert

    I first met Barb when we were “twinned” up at church in Los Angeles to do some special studies together. There was a big age gap between us but it didn’t matter. Soon we were best friends.
    What I remember most is how she would do anything to help her friends. She supported me through many challenges during those years. I eventually moved out of LA, but I never forgot my “twinnie” (as we called each other.
    I’m sorry we weren’t as close in recent years, but I know she is at peace. She spoke sometimes about going to Heaven when we did our studies at church and I know she is at peace.
    That doesn’t mean I don’t miss her like crazy, though. In fact, today a memory came up on Facebook. A simple “Hey Girl!” just like we always started our messages to each other. That’s what led me to this page and I wanted to leave a message back to her.
    Much love to you, John and the rest of the family.
    Good bye, Barb! I’m sure we’ll see each other again soon.

    Reply
  31. Jeff Shupe

    Barb’s smile was infectious. She could make anyone feel at home with her smile!

    She was a domestic Queen in the kitchen… She could not only make amazing meals but her extraordinary presentations for large gatherings made you feel special just being there.

    She knew who she was and she knew her country… You could not find a more true patriot in Franklin, TN.

    Finally, she knew the Lord and walked with him… She loves Him and is walking with Him now.

    I have just a little glimpse, John, why you are so grateful to the Lord for her. You loved her well…

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Thank you Jeff! She loved you guys deeply!

      Reply
  32. Andy Goldmark

    More than anything I will always remember Barbara’s impact on John’s life. She was his #1 fan and yet she also quartered no nonsense. She adored John and supported him threw thick and thin and made John a better person and hence a better musician. Her smile said it all and who couldn’t but flourish with that kind of wattage lighting up your day. As a result of Barbara, John has and always will…..a lucky man he is.

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Thank you Andy – she always loved and especially was grateful you put your awesome talents to work to further my career!

      Reply
    • Lar Chouljian

      It was an honor to have met Barbara last year when we helped assist in selling hers and John’s home in Valley Village. Barbara always had a smile on her face and it was a true pleasure to work along side her and John. By the end of the transaction it was bitter sweet to see them move to Nashville as we had become friends. Hearing the sad news of her passing came as a shock to us all. Her kind heart ❤ and beautiful smile will be remembered by us all. We can take comfort knowing she is in a better place. May God rest her soul. John may God give you the strength to carry on as Barbara would have wanted you to. ?

      Reply
  33. Natalie Kevorkian Team Rock Properties

    I am so very sorry to of heard about Barbara‘s passing. Although I met her for business reasons, the best part is through that transaction, I got to know her a little better and truly enjoyed her spunky personality, zest for life, and love towards you John. May God rest her soul and her memory beat through your heart.

    Reply
  34. Carmel Helene

    Echoing many of the earlier responses, Barb was truly a rock for you John, and it was plain to see how much she loved you and supported you. It made me so happy to see that. She was determined and creative, extremely hard working, and a great cook! I’ll never forget the sandwich she made me one afternoon, and I’ve been trying to recreate it (unsuccessfully) ever since! Sending all my love to you, John and to Barb. May she have a wonderful, next adventure.

    Reply
  35. Cameron

    I was able to meet Barb while working with John a handful of times in their Franklin house. She was always so kind and welcoming. When she found out I had a baby at home, she asked about her every time I saw her. It was easy to see how much she adored children. Rest easy.

    Reply
  36. Jim Wilson

    Oh dear Barbara… Thank you so much for the light you shown in this world: for John, for me, for all of us. You always rocked that beaming, welcoming smile, always had such a great attitude. You are and will forever be missed. Shine on my friend!! x

    Reply
  37. Larry Hopkins

    I was so happy when John and Barb became man and wife as I saw an immediate sense of love between them. I remember many get together at the Novello house and how Barb loved to have all their friends spend time with them She had a wonderful smile and a real sense of a purpose in life and her mission being to enrich John’s daily well being. She will stay in our hearts forever.

    Reply
  38. Eli Hendel

    My memory of Barbara was always the smile. While i was in the living room taking a piano lesson she was busy in her room on the computer, i would be surprised when she would comment on how good my playing was. How can a person who listens to John Novello play day after day, apreciate the beauty (if not the skill) of a student immersing in music. Can it be that as an artist she can sense the passion of others even from a distance. To see the good in everyone is a blessing. We need more of Barbara in this world. She will be missed.

    Reply
  39. Bryan Wood

    I still keep thinking it’s not real. I keep thinking if I leave a message it will become real. It seems like yesterday I text to check on you and you said you had a cold you couldn’t knock. I guess it’s real now.
    You swept into my life for a short period but what point you made. I looked forward to your smile and kept thinking, I’ll call Barbara and John for dinner soon but, work kept me away. It wasn’t because of money that kept me it was the need to take care of people. I couldn’t let my people have roots, lol. Like you, you needed your roots touched up but we never got to do them and now you have beautiful hair. Now you are smiling like never before as you are beholding His face. Oh what a moment for you and for the moment you were in my life you made the difference. Know that people make impressions by actions and not by how much time they spend in someone’s life. The time I had with you made a stamp on my life that will never be forgotten. I’m keeping John looking hip and sharp and I can’t wait to see you again some day. Until then keep shining light upon us and help us keep the faith. I love you bunches!

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Thanks for your inspiring words – means a lot to the both of us! She not only recognized and loved your talent but she loved YOU! She is a giant of a being and I’m sure making Heaven an even better place than it already is…!

      Ciao Bryan!

      Reply
    • Melanie Esper

      Uncle Johnny – I am so sorry to hear the loss of Barb. She was a great friend and awesome addition to our family. She fit it perfectly. I’m glad my sister and I got to come out to LA and have Barb take us all around the city.. those are great memories to have. We truly miss her!

      Reply
      • John Novello

        Thank you so much Melanie! She loved all of you…Uncle Johnny!

        Reply
  40. Kim Johnson

    Happy Caturday, Mom! Remember when you used to send me this on Saturdays?

    I miss you!

    Love,
    Kimmy

    Reply
  41. Patricia Esper

    Johnny – I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of Barb. She was an amazing woman with a kind heart. Although we did not live close, I always enjoyed the conversations we had, especially about mom. Lol.. She will be greatly missed.

    Reply
  42. Patricia Esper

    Johnny – I was shocked to hear the passing of Barb. Gone way too soon. I will miss our conversations and laughs. She will be truly missed.

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Thanks sis! She thought the world of you!!!

      Reply
  43. Sage Ali

    Barb was such a wonderful and positive person, and I was blessed to know her. I studied piano with John and often had pleasant conversations with Barb at the house. We enjoyed a few lunches when John and Barb visited the east coast, and it was amazing to discover how much we had in common. The photos posted here speak volumes about Barb’s beautiful and radiant spirit. Barb, thanks for all that you brought to this earthly plane!

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Thanks Sage for the kind words – she always thought you were special! John

      Reply
  44. David Fabrizio

    Barb was an incredibly sweet lady. I like that she always laughed at my jokes! She had a tremendous kindness that was her essence. She was taken way too soon. May God bless and hold you. I will see you on the other side. Xoxo Cuz David

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Thank you David for the caring truthful words – she really like your uplifting personality!

      Reply
  45. Randy Holmes

    John It was a while back that I met Barbara . I found her very delightful. And its obvious how happy she made you. I was really sad to hear of her passing but relieved it was quick and peaceful. I am watching another close friend who lost his wife of 49 years navigate the grieving process and I think everyone above would encourage you to keep posting and sharing – we will listen and appreciate all you have to share about Barbara and your years with her. My heartfelt condolences to you and all of the family . God Bless

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Thanks Randy! Keep creating…!

      Reply
  46. Anonymous

    We miss Barb’s smile and friendship. She was never without that smile. We didn’t know each long but we got very close in a short time. Till we meet again Barb, we love you. Bob and Terri Clement

    Reply
  47. Billy Sheehan

    So sorry we lost her. Wishing all friends and family my sincerest condolences.

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Thanks Billy!

      Reply
  48. Gina Quartaro (Bestenlehner)

    I’m sorry it took so long to write this. I still cannot believe that you are not here. Thank you for always welcoming us into your home. I will miss seeing you on the sidelines at one of John’s shows, admiring him like you always did. You will be missed so much.

    Reply
    • John Novello

      Thank you Gina!

      Reply
  49. Elyse Goldberg

    You promised we’d be friends forever but somehow you left . I should have realized our long talk was the last one … so sorry if I didn’t listen carefully enough on retrospect you knew you were leaving ? May your memory be a blessing to your family ❤️ I hope you get to look over from where you are and get to see them all get old ! And I pray that beautiful smile that could light up a room remains on your face ?

    trim.7BAF5DB6-BA78-42DE-84A7-ADA695A0FD15

    Reply
  50. Alyssa Johnson

    Nana, I miss you so much. You were my best friend and I’m sad to see you go so soon. I’m so glad you’re at peace now and get to dance in Heaven with Jesus. I can’t wait to reunite one day! I know you’re looking down on me and the rest of our family, we all love you so much and I’ll see you soon!

    Reply
  51. Tom and Lynda Mcguire

    We had the pleasure to get to Barbara and John in our store in downtown Franklin. Barbara and I hit it off immediately both being designers. She would surprise us often with coffee. She would come in with coffee in hand and a big sweet smile. She was a precious lady and we are so blessed to have gotten to know her.

    Reply
  52. Hemp Meadows

    John, you and Barb had only recently moved to Franklin. Your reputation preceded you but meeting Barb was a real delight. She was always smiling and the essence of good vibes. I love the way you two played together like two teenagers in love. Blessings ointment you, John ? ✌️

    Reply
  53. Justin Dearing

    Barbara always carried a brightness that could transform our day. We had the pleasure of caring for her and yet it always seemed like she cared for us just as much. I can see that she liked to give more than receive, and Barb, we know that you’re in the best position now to help shine that light into more of us here on this earth.

    Reply
  54. Jim Mona

    Kindness, sincerity and joy are just a few words that could start the remembrance of Barbara.
    I’ll never forget the time where I had avocado in our salad. I have allergies to the fruit and it was an accident.
    Peace

    Reply
  55. Giulia

    Mrs. Barbara was the kindest client I ever had, always greeting us, as her angels. She was so sweet and will always be missed.

    Reply
  56. Anonymous

    Miss you Mom!!

    Reply
    • Anonymous

      Love, Kimmy

      Reply
  57. Betsy Mary Crowley

    RIP beautiful lady. Sad condolences John-happy you had the 20 wonderful years. I remember when you reconnected…sorry i have been out of touch not on Faceshit due to their criminal activity regarding 400 million to sway our election and now this world trouble…I know through these troubled times your Angel will be watching out for you!~Thoughts and prayers ===beautiful tribute!!

    Reply
  58. Patrick Griffin

    Barb was a fierce friend when one was needed, a giving grandma when one was missing, a talkative mother when there was none. She loved the unlovable, cleaned the unclean-able, spoke the unspeakable, served the un-servable. She wasn’t afraid to get her hands dirty, and she’d be sure to clean up extra squeaky-clean when the job was done, with unstoppable energy. Barb lived a hero!

    Reply
  59. John Novello

    Update: To My Twin Flame: It has been a little over two years and to be honest, I’m surprised I’m still here in the earth dimension without you because I’d rather be in the Spirit Dimension, our true home, but apparently my race is not over! That said, thank you for your amazing love and support for over 20 years, for this incredible house your designed, and for inspiring me more out of Hell -A!!!

    You are my One & Only…

    Your Jazzman…!!!

    Reply

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