Barbara L. Cioffi
Williamsport, Pa. — Barbara L. Cioffi, 70, of Williamsport, Pa. passed away peacefully on Nov. 11, 2024.
Born on Nov. 13, 1953 in Allentown, Pa., Barbara was the beloved daughter of Alan S. and Adeline (Curnow) Holliday and a devoted sister to William Holliday. She spent her early years in Lancaster, Pa., where she graduated from Manheim Township High School in 1971. Pursuing a passion for education, she earned her degree in secondary education from Mansfield University in 1975.
Barbara devoted 35 years to teaching in the Williamsport Area School District, where she inspired countless students and colleagues before her retirement on Nov. 29, 2011. Known for her dedication, warmth, and humor, Barbara left a lasting impact on her students, many of whom remember her as a cherished mentor and friend.
In 1975, Barbara married the love of her life, Michael A. "Mick" Cioffi. Together, they shared over 40 wonderful years, enjoying their mutual love of Broadway, especially their visits to New York City to see musicals. Mick's passing left a deep void in Barbara's life, but her memories of their life together brought her enduring joy.
Barbara was known for her quick wit and a lifelong love of "Jeopardy!," often shouting out the answers and beating the contestants to the buzzer from her own living room. An English teacher to her core, she had an eye for spotting grammar mistakes, quietly correcting everyone's grammar with a smile and an ever-gentle nudge. Her humor, intelligence, and warmth will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Barbara will be remembered for her kindness, passion for teaching, and zest for life. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. She is survived by her children, Meredith C. (Keith) Wenz of Lancaster, Michael A. Cioffi of Fairfax, Va.; her beloved grandchildren, granddaughters, Avery and Emersyn Wenz and grandson Porter Cioffi; as well as her in-laws, Nicholas E. and Anne M. (Mangiardi) Cioffi, Janice M. (Lee) Frank, Ronald E. (Patricia) Cioffi, and Nan Holliday.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Comfort Keepers for their care and compassion over the past few years. Their dedication and kindness brought comfort to Barbara's life, and we are forever grateful for the warmth and support they provided.
The family will receive family and friends at Crouse Funeral Home & Cremations, 133 E. 3rd St., Williamsport, Pa. on Friday, Nov. 22, 2024 from 6 to 8 p.m.
A private family burial will be held at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial contributions in Barbara's name may be made to the James V. Brown Library, 19 E. 4th St., Williamsport, PA 17701.
