Barbara Nahas, 87, of Colts Neck passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 8th surrounded by her loving family.

Born of Greek descent in Alexandria, Egypt, Barbara immigrated to the United States in 1967 with her beloved husband, Basile Sr. She arrived with no knowledge of English, but with extraordinary courage, determination, and love. She taught herself to speak, read, and write English, and was fluent in four languages. Barbara made Colts Neck her home for over 55 years.

Barbara devoted her entire life to her family. She raised seven children with no babysitters, no outside help, and very little time carved out for herself. Every hour went to her children, and that never changed even after they were grown. To Barbara, her children and grandchildren were her greatest joy and her whole reason for being.

She was also a devoted wife, caring deeply for her husband throughout their life together and building, alongside him, a beautiful family rooted in love, faith, sacrifice, and strength.

Barbara was an incredible cook, and her table always had room for more. She made sure there was enough food for whichever neighborhood kids wandered in that day, and many did. To countless of her children’s friends growing up, she was not just someone’s mom — she was a second mother.

She was a loving wife, mother, mother-in-law, and Yia-Yia. She was a gentle, steady presence in the lives of all  who knew her. Her kindness came naturally. She was always ready to lend a hand to friends and neighbors, whether that meant offering a ride to school, preparing a warm meal, or simply being a shoulder to cry on. She was a source of comfort, strength, and unconditional love.

Barbara was one of the most loving and remarkable people most will ever have the privilege of knowing. She was adored by everyone whose path she crossed, and she leaves behind a warmth, tenderness, and legacy of love that will never fade.

She was predeceased by her husband, Basile Sr. Surviving are her two sons Christian Nahas (Donna), and Basile Nahas, Jr., five daughters Pascale Coppola (Juan), Karin Roros (Louis), Natalie Callaci (Joseph), Mylene DiStefano (David), and Nicole Nahas, and 11 grandchildren. She was one of seven children herself, and is survived by her sister Nana, whom she adored, along with dozens of relatives and friends around the world.

Barbara’s family would also like to express their deepest gratitude to the caring and compassionate staff and community at Sunrise Assisted Living in Lincroft, NJ. Over the past four years, they cared for Barbara with extraordinary kindness, patience, dignity, and love, and became a meaningful part of her life and her family’s journey.

Visitation will be held Monday from 5:00 to 8:00PM at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 South Holmdel Road, Holmdel, NJ. A prayer service will be offered at 5:00 PM.

Memorial donations may be made in Barbara’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alznj.org