Barbara Theresa Drago, 85, peacefully passed away on December 23, 2025 surrounded by her family in Melrose, Ma. Born on November 28, 1940 in Everett, MA, Barbara was the heart of her family, a beautiful, loving wife, mother, and grandmother whose life centered around home, food, and being together. 

Barbara was the beloved wife of Charles Robert Drago and survived by Mark Drago, Cheryl, Robyn Davis, Mark Davis, Scott Drago and Kristin Drago. She was an adored grandmother to Christopher, Nicholas, Maria, Isabella, Carly, Dominic, Colby, Conor, and Corbin who were the light of her life. She also leaves behind her beloved grand dog Ruby, and is reunited with Tyson and Zoey. Barbara is survived by her sisters Rita and Mary and was predeceased by her brother John. 

Family meant everything to Barbara. She loved having everyone together for weekly dinners, where her home was always full of warmth, conversation, and laughter. She was a talented baker and was especially known for her coconut cakes, which became a massive success at her son Scott’s restaurant, Blue on Highland, a source of great pride for her and the entire family.

She loved vacations on Cape Cod, Plum Island, cruises, and spending time in Florida, but her happiest place was at home, tending to her garden and planting her flowers each year. Barbara had a true eye for beauty, she loved clothes, decorating her home, and making everything around her feel special and welcoming. 

Barbara’s love, style, and devotion to her family will live on through the traditions she created and the memories she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Visiting Hours will be held on Monday, December 29, 2025 from 8:30am-11:30am at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose. A Funeral Mass will be held at 12:00pm on Monday, December 29, 2025, at St. Mary's Church, 4 Herbert St., Melrose. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be in Barbara's memory to St. Jude's Children Research Hospital.