Robert E. Barrett, a beloved educator, civic leader, and athlete, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026, at Glen Arden Nursing Home in Goshen, New York, at the age of 92.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 69 years, June; his daughters, Elizabeth (Jeff) and Katharine (John); his grandchildren, Katie (Jim), Robert (Tanya), Emily, Kristin, and Kevin (Chloe); his great-grandchildren, Max and Zoe; his sister, Marion; and his beloved niece Regina and nephew Matthew, along with their children. He was predeceased by his sister, Rose, and his brothers-in-law, Roger and Frank.

For more than three decades, Robert made his home in Yonkers before retiring to Smallwood in Bethel, where he became a cornerstone of the community. He was widely respected for his unwavering commitment to civic life and his deep sense of responsibility to the people and environment around him. As a dedicated member-and President-of the Civic Association of Smallwood, he served as a thoughtful and persistent advocate, lending his voice to issues of environmental stewardship, water quality, and responsible development. His work on regional efforts, including those connected to the Mongaup River Hydroelectric Projects and the Toronto Reservoir, reflected both his diligence and his belief that communities thrive when people stand up for what matters.

Robert's life was equally defined by his passion for athletics. A distinguished master racewalker, he represented New York at both the National Senior Games and the Empire State Senior Games, earning medals and setting national records well into his 70s. His achievements placed him among the top competitors in the sport, but those who knew him best understood that his true legacy lay in the discipline, perseverance, and quiet determination he brought to every stride.

Robert was always working on something-building or fixing things, knocking out projects, making repairs, and keeping a running list of what needed to be done next. He was a wealth of knowledge, like a living encyclopedia, always ready with an answer, idea, or solution-and if he didn't know something, he could just as easily make it up with confidence and a grin.

He loved sports throughout his life. He played competitive horseshoes and softball and followed baseball closely, growing up with the Brooklyn Dodgers and later cheering for the Mets and the Jets. He was the life of the party and a quintessential Irish storyteller, known for his humor and ability to bring people together, always lighting up every room he entered.

At his core, Robert was an educator, serving for over 40 years in the New York City School System. As principal of I.S. 192, the Piagentini-Jones School in the Bronx from 1982 to 1995, he shaped the lives of countless students and colleagues. He led with integrity, compassion, and a firm belief in the transformative power of education, leaving an enduring imprint on the school community he served.

Robert's life was one of purpose, service, and determined strength. His legacy lives on in the communities he served, the students he guided, the causes he championed, and the family he cherished. He will be remembered with deep respect, lasting gratitude, and great love.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Hospice of Orange and Sullivan Counties, Inc., 800 Stony Brook Court, Newburgh, NY 12550.

Family and friends are invited to join us at Colonial-Ramsay Funeral Home, 3534 Route 55, Kauneonga Lake, NY, on Monday, April 20th, from 2:30 to 5:00. There will be a celebration of life on Tuesday, April 21st, starting at 11 AM, followed by a burial at Evergreen Cemetery, Route 17B, Bethel, NY.