Obituary of Barbara T. Devaney

March 26, 2026

Barbara T. Devaney, a native of Greenwich Village in New York City, artist, and longtime art director, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, March 26, 2026, shortly after celebrating her 94th birthday that same week.

She was born in New York City to Domenico Masciocchi and Pauline Gazzolo Masciocchi. As a child, she lived in Italy, where she became fluent in Italian—her first language—an experience that shaped her lifelong appreciation for art, culture, and travel.

Barbara graduated from Marymount Manhattan College and built a distinguished career in publishing and design. She spent 25 years at Harris Publications, where she served as one of the company’s first Art Directors, contributing to the visual identity of numerous publications, including work connected to Farmer’s Almanac. Earlier in her career, she worked with Look magazine and contributed to a range of New York-based lifestyle publications during the vibrant publishing era of the 1950s and 1960s.

An independent graphic design professional for many years, Barbara was also a natural collaborator. She worked closely with her husband, writer John Francis Devaney, contributing to multiple book projects through proofreading, visual input, and creative partnership. Together, they co-published a book on the Indianapolis 500, and she remained one of his most trusted creative collaborators.

Barbara was deeply engaged in her community. She served as President of the 520 LaGuardia Place Tenants’ Association and was an active member of the Friends of LaGuardia Place.

She was a beloved client of God’s Love We Deliver, an organization that became an important part of her life. She was featured in an ABC News segment that helped raise over $200,000 for their work, and in her own way became a quiet ambassador for their mission. On several memorable occasions, Hugh Jackman, Sutton Foster, and Michael Kors personally delivered meals to Barbara—an experience that brought her great joy and remained a true highlight for her.

A passionate traveler, Barbara explored the world extensively—from the Galápagos Islands and Africa to Australia and throughout Europe. She spent time living between New York, Italy, East Hampton, and Nantucket, embracing a life rich in culture, beauty, and connection. She was a lover of animals, especially her many treasured cats, and had a deep appreciation for nature.

Barbara lived independently in the Greenwich Village apartment where she raised her family—a home that became a gathering place for friends and family alike. She welcomed loved ones to stay with her over the years, creating a space filled with warmth, laughter, and connection. She often said that everything she ever needed was within five blocks of her home—a reflection of her deep love for New York City.

Above all, Barbara’s greatest pride and joy were her family. She is survived by her sons, John Devaney of Reston, Virginia, and Luke Devaney of Corry, Pennsylvania; and her three grandchildren, Riley and Charlotte Devaney (John), and Lillian Devaney (Luke). She also leaves behind a wide circle of cherished family and dear friends across the United States and Italy, including her cousin Mary, who was like a sister to her. As an only child, Barbara held her extended family especially close—treasuring her cousins as siblings and their children as her own nieces and nephews. She was especially close to her husband’s Irish family, who affectionately called her “Aunt Barbara” at family gatherings.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 39 years, John Francis Devaney.

She was also surrounded by the care and companionship of devoted aides—Shirley, Crystal, and Sunny—who became an important part of her extended family.

Barbara will be remembered for her creativity, her independence, her warmth, and the unmistakable presence she brought to every room. She carried the spirit of Greenwich Village with her always—creative, independent, and deeply connected to the world around her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to God’s Love We Deliver.

Following the interment, a celebration of Barbara’s life will be held from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. at GMT Tavern in Greenwich Village, just 82 steps from her home, a place she loved. All who knew and loved her are welcome.

Funeral Services