Barbara F. (Root) Gonsalves

Barbara F. Gonsalves, 90, of Prospect passed away peacefully while surrounded by her loved ones on March 4, 2026 at St. Mary’s Hospital.  Barbara was the widow of the late Alfred Gonsalves.  Born February 20, 1936 in Waterbury, she was the last living child of the late Edward and Hazel (Joy) Root.  

Barbara was a truly remarkable woman—fun-loving, humorous, generous, and filled with joy. Her family was the center of her world, and her home was always a welcoming place for the neighborhood. It was where laughter, snacks, and great conversations were had. Barbara was known as the neighborhood mom.  All of the children in the neighborhood knew that she would always welcome them. Her easygoing nature and unconditional love made her the approachable adult that everyone could turn to with life events, worries, and dreams. She cheered on everyone’s accomplishments and kept every newspaper clipping about her family and friends' achievements close at hand.

Her children and grandchildren carry so many memories of her that are marked by laughter, warmth, and love where ever she was. Whether that was the family home or the Upstate New York retreat. These places were cherished by the family where they spent weekends, holidays, and vacations together. The simplicity of the homes and the peaceful, rural settings allowed everyone to slow down and enjoy the little things in life: ice cream trips, visiting the horses and cows, and outdoor barbecues—all while creating memories with those they loved most.

Barbara always made sure that each grandchild received a special Christmas present, no matter where they were living. She mailed gifts far and wide, making sure they arrived well in advance, so that every grandchild would have something under the tree from Grandma.

Her heart was big enough to welcome many pets over the years. From cats and dogs to grand-dogs and grand-kitties, there was always room on her lap for a snuggle. Her home was a place where everyone felt welcome, and her beautiful smile could light up any room.

Barbara’s love and memory will be cherished by her sons, Alan and Gary Gonsalves of Prospect, and her daughters, Lori Hager (and her husband Herbert) of Wolcott and Lynn Emmons (and her husband Robert) of Tennessee. She will also be missed by her cherished grandchildren, Jennie, Bobby, Nathan, and Katie Emmons, and Kerry Hager, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Barbara was predeceased by her siblings: Edward and James Root, Jean Smith, Mary Berger, and Catherine Cox.

Friends and family are invited to visit with Barbara’s family from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm on Monday, March 9, 2026 at Prospect Memorial/The Palmerie Family Funeral Home, 122 Waterbury Rd., Prospect. Funeral Service for Barbara will be held at 12:00 pm. Barbara will be interred following services at St. James Cemetery Naugatuck.  Prospect Memorial/ The Palmerie Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements and to care for the Gonsalves family throughout their grief journey.  Sharing your memories, photos and words of comfort on Barbara’s Tribute Wall on this page will be much comfort to her family in the days ahead.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

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