Barbara E. Nunes

Barbara E. Nunes, 71, of Shelton, entered into eternal life at home on April 2, 2026, with her family by her side.

Barbara was the beloved wife of Russell Nunes, and a deeply loved mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend. Born on March 1, 1955, in Harrison Township, Michigan, she was the daughter of Ellen Craig and the late John Banholzer.

Barbara spent most of her career working in banking, eventually retiring as a supervisor with Bank of America. But her true passion was always animals, and in retirement she found joy at VCA in Shelton, where she cared deeply for both the pets and the people who loved them. She was known there not only for her kindness, but for being one of the dogs’ favorite people, usually with a treat in tow.

Barbara will be remembered most for the little things that made her so unmistakably her. She was young at heart, loved to laugh, and was always ready with the latest soap opera update. Her bold, eccentric earrings made her vibrant personality shine even brighter. The people around her always felt safe, cared for, and heard. People turned to her for comfort, for reassurance, and for the kind of steady presence that made hard moments feel a little lighter. When it came to her people, she always showed up, even on her sickest days. The overwhelming outpour of love in the wake of her passing has been a reflection of just how rare and deeply cherished Barbara was to so many.

Family was everything to Barbara. She gave generously of herself and treasured the people closest to her. Her children and grandchildren were at the center of her world, and the care she gave them was steady, selfless, and unwavering.

Barbara is survived by her devoted husband, Russell Nunes; her mother, Ellen Craig; her daughter, Rachael Nunes; her son, Shane Nunes, and his wife, Kristen; her beloved grandchildren, Harper and Banks; her siblings, Craig Banholzer and Beth Wade; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. She was predeceased by her father, John Banholzer III, and her brother, John Banholzer IV.

Family and friends are invited to visit at Spear-Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Road, on Friday, April 10, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, April 11, at 10:00 AM at St. Lawrence Parish, 505 Shelton Avenue, Shelton. Burial will be private at St. Thomas Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Barbara’s memory to Bissell Pet Foundation.