Barbara Mae Charpentier

Barbara May (Johnston) (Cote) Charpentier, 78, formerly of Litchfield, died November 27, 2003 at Hackett Hill Nursing Home after a period of declining health. She was born in Manchester on March 5, 1925, the second daughter of Earle and Mildred (Cook) Johnston and attended West High School. She was a graduate of South Boston High School and then attended Northeastern University where she earned a degree as a Jr. Draftsman. She also attended the Boston Conservatory of Music majoring in piano and voice. Later in life, she attended St. Joseph School of Nursing where she became a LPN. She spend most of her career as an LPN at local nursing homes and retired from the Concord State Hospital. During World War II, she toured with the New England USO Troops, singing with several well known bands. She and her first husband ran Arts News Delivery. After retirement, she spend the winter months in Holiday, FL. She was predeceased by her first husband, Arthur B. Cote. IN HER LIFE: After the untimely death of her husband, she continued to run Arts News Delivery with the help of her son and her second husband, Meddy DeBlois. Barbara was also involved with several New England Horse shows and bred Morgan horses. She started DarCol Stables in Litchfield with her daughter. DarCol successfully produced the 1985 and 1995 World Champion Morgan Horses. Barbara's legacy with horses is still alive and well. DarCol continues to operate as an equestrian academy in Litchfield. Family members include a son, Colin C. Cote of Coulton, OR; a daughter, Darlene DeBlois of Litchfield; two step-sons, David DeBlois of Portland, OR and Tom DeBlois of Manchester; three stepdaughters, Linda Farrell of Phoenix, AZ, Janice Scala of Syracuse, NY and Sandra O'Brien of Phoenix, AZ; several grandchildren and great grandhcildren; a brother David B. Johnston of Lakeside, CA; and nephews, nieces and cousins. SERVICES: A graveside committal service will take place at Pine Grove Cemetery on Tueaday at 10:00. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire, 545 Route 101, Bedford, NH 03110. Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium is in charge of arrangments. To view an on-line memorial, get directions or send a condolence, go to www.phaneuf.net.