Barbara Caldararo
Barbara Ann Caldararo (née Messina), of Mohegan Lake, NY, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, Barbara is survived by her beloved husband, Anthony Caldararo; her three loving children, Nicole Hollingsworth (Jason), Anthony Caldararo (Michelle), and Dena Caldararo; and her four treasured grandchildren: Amelia, Jacob, Cayla, and Nicholas. She is also survived by her dear brothers Louis Messina (Karen), Richard Messina (Jackie), Albert Messina (Tara), and Frankie Messina (Michelle); her brother-in-law Joseph Caldararo (Fran); and her cherished nieces Lily, Isabelle, Alexa, and Landry.
Barbara was born in Mount Vernon, NY, in 1957 and spent her early years there, attending St. Ursula’s School. Her family later moved to Mamaroneck, NY, where she graduated from Rye Neck High School. She went on to earn her Associate’s Degree from Westchester Community College and began her career in the medical field.
In 1980, Barbara married the love of her life, Anthony “Tony” Caldararo, and together they built a beautiful life in Mohegan Lake, NY. She devoted her early years to raising her children, returning to the workforce when they were older to begin a new chapter in the technology department at Lakeland Central School District. Known affectionately as the “Computer Lady” at Walter Panas High School, she served the school community with dedication from 1998 until her retirement in October 2024.
Barbara also found deep meaning in her role as a religious education instructor at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, where she joyfully taught first graders to know and love God.
She had a passion for reading, going to food festivals, playing games on her iPad—especially her Smurfs—and treasured the enduring friendships she shared with Den 2. Their bond continued long after their children stopped playing together, with regular gatherings and celebrations that enriched her life.
A lifelong Yankees fan, Barbara loved going to Yankee Stadium and watching games with her family and friends. Whether cheering from the stands or enjoying a game at home, those moments brought her immense happiness and joy.
A compassionate and generous soul, Barbara was always ready to lend a helping hand or offer comfort to anyone in need.
While she loved being a mother, Barbara found her greatest joy in becoming a grandmother. She cherished every moment with her grandchildren—whether watching Amelia dance, cheering on Jacob at his games, spending special time with Cayla twice a week, or delighting in the arrival of baby Nicholas. These one-on-one moments brought her unparalleled happiness.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Barbara’s life during visitation on Tuesday, July 29, from 2:00–4:00 PM and 6:00–8:00 PM at Clark & Giordano Funeral Home, 2104 Saw Mill River Road, Yorktown Heights, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, July 30, at 10:00 AM at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 1377 E. Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY, followed by interment at Assumption Cemetery, 1055 Oregon Road, Cortlandt Manor, NY.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, https://www.stjude.org/ or The Community Food Pantry at St. Mary’s Mohegan Lake (Please specify for School Supplies), https://cfpstmarysmoheganlake.com/donate