Barbara Jean Makitra

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness, we share the news of the passing of our beloved mother, Barbara Jean Makitra. She peacefully entered the arms of the Lord, at home on November 7, 2025.

Barbara was born in Bath, NY on February 21, 1934, to William “Pete” Snell and Lena O’Brochta Snell. At the age of four, following the arrival of her twin brothers, she went to live with her aunt and uncle, Thomas and Henrietta Rees. What was meant to be a temporary arrangement became permanent, and she was lovingly raised at 3 Curtiss Avenue in Hammondsport, New York- a place that would forever remain close to her heart.

Barbara graduated from Hammondsport Central School in 1952. Soon after graduation, she began working at Taylor Wine — a job she loved and spoke of fondly throughout her life.

On May 19, 1956, Barbara married Harry Makitra, and together they made their home in Bath, New York. They shared 54 wonderful years of marriage before Harry’s passing in 2010.

Barbara stepped away from the workforce to raise her family, later returning to work and eventually retiring from Phillips Lighting.

Known as the cool mom that all the kids loved, Barbara brought warmth, humor, and kindness to everyone around her. She found joy in her near-daily rides to Hammondsport, often with Willie’s Roadhouse playing on the radio. A true Hammondsport girl, she loved reminiscing about her hometown and the memories it held. Her love for music was undeniable — especially for Willie Nelson and Elvis Presley — and her nightly glass of wine was a must!

Barbara is survived by her devoted daughters, Kimberly Makitra and Cathy Makitra (Kelly Beam), and her cherished granddaughter, Julia Makitra-Bourgeois (Tommy Bourgeois)

In addition to her husband, Barbara was predeceased by her son, Gregory; her parents; her stepfather, Norman Max Wisner; her brothers, Robert and William Snell; her sister, Patricia Hooper; and many dear uncles and aunts.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks and love to Dave, Susie, Mickey, Rhonda, Kim, Jen, and countless others for their unwavering love and compassion for our mom.

We are comforted knowing she has been welcomed by the family and friends who went before her — including her dear friends Evelyn, Gail, and Barb — all finally reunited.

Donations can be made in Barbara’s name to the Finger Lakes SPCA, 72 Cameron Street, Bath, NY 14810. Per her wishes, a private burial service will be held at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Raise a glass of wine to a life well lived and a woman well loved.