ROOT, Barbara F. of Norwood 

Barbara Frances (Riordan) Root, 76, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on June 7, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born in Passaic, New Jersey, on October 7, 1949, Barbara was the beloved daughter of Benedict Riordan and Frances (Partyka) Riordan. She lived a life defined by curiosity, adventure, learning, and connection. She was a teacher, entrepreneur, world traveler, Tai Chi instructor, and lifelong student of natural health, spirituality, and culture.

In 1971, Barbara moved to Boston to study Tai Chi Chuan under renowned Master TT Liang, beginning a journey that would shape the rest of her life. She became deeply involved in the macrobiotic movement, natural foods cooking, holistic wellness, and spiritual practice, dedicating herself to helping others live healthier and more meaningful lives.

A graduate of Seton Hall University, Barbara later earned a degree in Elementary Education in Boston and created innovative educational programs that reflected her love of learning and world cultures. She developed a curriculum called "Teaching About China to Elementary School Children," combining her passion for education with her extensive travels throughout Asia.

An adventurer at heart, Barbara traveled extensively throughout China, Tibet, Nepal, India, Thailand, and Bali. Her journeys inspired her writing, teaching, and entrepreneurial pursuits. She founded a clothing and import business featuring handcrafted textiles, jewelry, and clothing from Bali, Indonesia, where she spent several months each year for more than two decades. For many years, she shared her love of Balinese culture and craftsmanship throughout the Boston area and became a familiar and beloved presence in the Jamaica Plain community, selling Balinese clothing on Centre Street.

Barbara was known for bringing people together and for hosting legendary parties on Alveston Street from the 1980s into the 2000s. She loved conversation, community, dancing, cooking, shopping, Tai Chi, and discovering the stories that made every person unique. In her own words, "I love real people." Friends often remarked on the remarkable and fascinating people who seemed to gather around her wherever she went.

Above all, Barbara cherished her family. She is survived by her loving daughter, Jennifer Root Bannon, and son-in-law, John Bannon; her beloved grandsons, Oliver and Matthew, who brought her immense pride and joy; her former husband, Evan Root, and his wife, Maureen Root; her niece, Katelyn, and nephew, Jameson; her former sister-in-law, Debbie Riordan; and many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing her.

She was predeceased by her beloved son, Juston Root, whose memory remained forever in her heart; her brother, Denis Riordan; and her parents, Benedict and Frances Riordan.

Barbara and Juston shared an extraordinarily close bond. A devoted son, Juston cared deeply for his mother, and the love they shared was evident to everyone who knew them. His tragic death in 2020 left an immeasurable void in Barbara's heart, one she carried with grace, strength, and enduring love for the remainder of her life. Family and friends can find comfort in knowing they are reunited again.

Barbara's life was full of curiosity, compassion, courage, and connection. She leaves behind a legacy of love, adventure, and an enduring belief in the goodness and potential of people everywhere.

As Barbara once wrote, "I know I am a magnet for great interesting people. I have met them all over the world."

Her family finds comfort knowing that her extraordinary journey continues in the hearts of all who loved her.

Visiting hours will be THURSDAY at Mann Rodgers Funeral Home, 44 Perkins Street, Jamaica Plain from 5pm - 8 pm.  Relatives and friends invited.

Interment private