Mary Jane (Barry) Glynn, known to all who loved her simply as Jane, 87, of Middletown, RI, formerly of North Andover, MA, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on December 29, 1938, in Haverhill, MA, she was the cherished daughter of Elaine (Madigan) Barry and Edward T. Barry. Jane grew up in Marblehead, MA, where her lifelong love of the sea first took root. She was always happiest by the water and carried that deep connection to the ocean with her throughout her life. A proud graduate of Marblehead High School, Class of 1956, she treasured her hometown and, until recently, took part in a yearly reunion with her graduating classmates.
Jane met the love of her life, James A. Glynn, Jr., while they were both students at Merrimack College. After graduating, they were married on August 26, 1961, beginning a devoted partnership that would span decades. When Jim was asked how he knew Jane was “the one,” he would always smile and say, “She had me at hello.”
After college, Jane and Jim settled in North Andover, where they raised their family and built a home filled with love, music, and laughter. Jane began her professional life teaching third grade at St. Michael School in North Andover, where her patience, kindness, and love of learning left a lasting impression on her students. She taught her students to play the guitar and perform at weekly Masses. She later embarked on a long and successful career in real estate, where her warmth, integrity, and natural ability to connect with others earned her the respect of colleagues and the trust of clients. Many of her fellow realtors and clients became lifelong friends, a testament to the genuine relationships she formed throughout her career.
Jane was a devoted mother who joyfully passed on her love of reading and music, ranging from classical and show tunes to hymns and popular songs, to her children and grandchildren. A fierce and steady supporter, Jane stepped in without hesitation to coach, carpool, tutor, and mentor whenever she was needed. She opened her home generously to friends and family, hosting countless sleepovers, pool parties, and family gatherings. In later years, she especially delighted in welcoming visits from her children’s friends during college breaks and later bringing their partners and families to visit, always eager to hear their stories and remain connected to their lives.
She was predeceased by her beloved son, James “Jay” Glynn III, and her brother, Edward Barry.
Jane leaves her devoted husband of 64 years, Jim. She is also survived by her loving children: Patricia and her husband, Laszlo Korbl, of Fairfield, CT; Elaine and her husband, Ed L’Italien, of Bradenton, FL; and Stephen and his wife, Deirdre, of Londonderry, NH. She is lovingly remembered by her adored grandchildren, Sean and Samantha L’Italien; Reilly Korbl and her partner, Dave O’Neil; and Jillian and Ellie Glynn; and by her beloved great-grandchildren, Savannah and Sean, Jr. She also leaves her dear sister, Patricia Barry; her brother-in law Marty Glynn, her sisters-in-law Rita Mae (Thomas) Mickey, Cathy (Mike) Milley, Maureen (Michael) Chadwick, and Diane Glynn; and many cherished nieces and nephews. Jane will be remembered for her quick laugh, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to her family. She had a gentle presence and a generous heart and took immense pride in the lives and accomplishments of her children and grandchildren. Her home was always a place of comfort, laughter, and unconditional love. Jane’s love remains the foundation of her family.
Our family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the phenomenal caretakers at Hope Hospice of Rhode Island for their kindness and compassionate care.
Funeral services will be announced by the family in the spring. When you think of Jane, wear something bright and colorful in her honor.