Barbara Cerny

Barbara J. (Swanson) Cerny, of West Dennis and Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2026 in Worcester.

Barbara was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, daughter of the late Frank E. and Edna L. Swanson. As fate would have it, Barbara was born on the exact same day as her future husband, Richard Cerny. Graduates of Omaha South High School, Barbara and Richard carried their friendship into college and beyond. They were married on Valentine's Day in 1969. Around this time, Richard joined the U.S. Air Force while Barbara earned her pharmacy degree.

A registered pharmacist in five states, Barbara worked at Marshall Drug in Holden before devoting herself to raising her family as a loving, stay-at-home mother. Her patience, generosity, affection, and especially her warm hugs will be missed.

She enjoyed antiquing, with a special passion for pharmaceutical antiques. Barbara loved traveling with family and friends—most notably on her trips to Ogunquit and cruises—and enjoyed volunteering her time with Preservation Worcester.

Barbara leaves behind her devoted and caring husband, Richard; her two sons, Gregory and Jeffrey; her seven grandchildren, Ashley, Jamie, Jack, Matt, Michael, Ainsley, and Griffin; and her three great-grandchildren, Oscar, Lucy, and Sam. She was predeceased by her parents and her brothers, Frank L. Swanson and Dennis Swanson, all of Omaha.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Barbara’s family on Saturday, November 14, 2026 from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester.