Irma Barbookles

Irma Barbookles, age 97, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2025, in Tribes Hill, NY, surrounded by the love of her devoted family. Born and raised in the vibrant heart of the Bronx, NY, she was the beloved daughter of Angelo and Maria Perrone and the youngest of six siblings, who she is now reunited with in peace.

In her later years, Irma made her home in Amsterdam, NY, drawn by the nearness of her beloved daughter, Lucille—whose boundless love and quiet grace became a guiding light. With unwavering devotion, Lucille gave of herself completely, tending to her mother with tenderness and strength, offering not only care but deep companionship through the ever-turning seasons of life.

Irma's journey was one of quiet strength, enduring love, and unwavering devotion to her family. A gentle matriarch with a fierce heart, she was the cherished wife of the late James Barbookles Sr., with whom she built a life rich in love, laughter, and memory. James departed this world in February of 1995, yet the bond they shared lives on—in every story told, in every heart they’ve touched.

She leaves behind a legacy of love in her four devoted children: James Barbookles Jr., John (Denise) Barbookles, Michael Barbookles, and Lucille (Michael) Fraser. To her seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, she was a guiding light—radiating warmth, pride, and joy with every smile and every story she shared.

Irma will be remembered not only for her strength and enduring grace, but for the boundless love she poured into her family. Her spirit—gentle yet unyielding—lives on in every soul she touched. Her devotion to family was a flame she kept alive through the warmth of her kitchen, where the scent of homemade Italian meals mingled with laughter and love. Sunday dinners were her sacred ritual, a gathering of hearts she held dearest, each meal a testament to the joy she found in togetherness.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Irma’s devoted health care aide, Donna Wilmot, whose kindness and compassion brought comfort to Irma’s days, and to Mountain Valley Hospice, whose staff ensured her final moments were peaceful and full of dignity.

In honoring her wishes, a private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who knew and loved Irma to honor her memory by making a donation to a charity of their choice—something meaningful, something kind, something that echoes the life she lived.

She will be deeply missed, eternally loved, and forever remembered.