It is with both heavy sadness and deep gratitude that we share the passing of Barbara J. Usborne (Law) on October 21, 2026. Barb was a devoted wife, cherished mother and treasured friend. Born to Thomas D. Law and Janet M. Law (Roy) on June 10, 1932, she became the little sister to big brother Tom, who she idolized. Barb was raised in Sherrill by her Scottish-born parents who instilled in her values of kindness, thoughtfulness, and pride for her heritage. Barb was active in multiple extra-curricular activities, including cheerleading, bowling, drama, swimming, track – among many others. She graduated from Sherrill High School in 1950. Her employment history included lifeguarding, teaching swimming, and factory work at Oneida Silversmiths. Following her years of a variety of work experiences she enrolled at SUNY College for Teachers in Albany, earning a B.A. in Education with a major in Spanish and a minor in English in 1954. While attending college, Barb was vice-president of Beta Zeta social sorority, chairman of the hospitality committee for visiting teams and a member of the campus commission. Barb had a love for learning and she thoroughly enjoyed teaching. Her first teaching job was in Hoosick Falls, NY and continued in Canastota.

       Barb married the love of her life, Samuel G. Usborne, on December 29, 1956 and immediately left for Davenport, Iowa where Sam attended Palmer Chiropractic School and Barb continued teaching to support them. After Sam graduated, in 1959, they returned to CNY, eventually settling in Cazenovia where they raised their family, Barb continued teaching at Cazenovia Central School, and they quickly became part of an extraordinary circle of friends that they held dear for over 66 years. Moreover, we are certain that Barb’s healthy, active, fun-filled life was due to her love for her family, love for her friends, and love of a good time.

       Barb truly loved any social event and was genuinely happy to see people. As her oldest son frequently commented with some exasperation, “she talks to everyone!” Barb has been described by those who may have just met her and those who have known her for a lifetime as “a light, a treasure, a spitfire, a good egg, a sweetheart, a joy; strong, stubborn, vivacious, sincere, comforting, inviting” – just to name a few adjectives.

       To say Barb will be missed is an understatement, and her absence will be felt by so many. Yet we take comfort in our memories and knowing how dearly she was loved. Barb’s life was truly a gift and her love a blessing. 94 years is a beautiful testament to a life that meant so much to so many and whose spirit will live on in all who knew her.

       Barb is predeceased by her parents (obviously); her love and life partner of 56 years, Samuel G. Usborne (June 2012); her first born child, Samuel D. Usborne (October 2025); and countless family members and friends who are patiently awaiting her arrival.

       Barb is survived by her daughter Ann and son-in-law, Scott Clements; her son, Thomas and granddaughter MacKenzie; grandsons, Brian and Andrew Clements; and daughters-in-law, Dottie Shue and Christina Waltz Usborne and her children; as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.

       A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2 p.m., Monday, October 26, 2026 in St. James Church, 6 Green Street in Cazenovia. Burial will be in St. James Cemetery, Cazenovia. There are no calling hours. Contributions in Barbara’s memory may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Condolences for the Usborne family may be shared at www.michaelebrownfuneralservices.com.