SARATOGA SPRINGS — Barbara McMahon Scanlan, formerly from High Falls, NY, passed away on Thursday, May 5, 2022 surrounded by peace and serenity with the loving embrace of her family. She was born in Napa, CA on December 31, 1931.
Barbara had an impressive career in the acting world which started at the University of the Pacific, where she was a leading actor and received her bachelor’s degree at the age of 17. After that, she was a leading actor at the Monterey California Warf Theater Company as well as The Repertory Theater of New Orleans. She performed Off Broadway in New York City and was not only an actor in, but a cofounder of the Berkeley Players. Her talents didn’t only exist on stage; she was also an accomplished playwright and philanthropist. Barbara played a role in the fundraising for and development of organizations such as Publisher’s Clearing House, Brooklyn Museum, and the Orchestra of St. Luke’s.
The adoring wife of the late David E. Scanlan, together they traveled to various parts of the world- Paris, France being the most visited as the city was beloved and cherished by both.
Along with her husband David, Barbara is predeceased by sons Michael M. Scanlan and John S. Scanlan; and her brother John McMahon. A loving mother and proud nana, she is survived by her children Christopher E. Scanlan and Bridget S. Languth; and her grandchildren Kaitlin and Connor Scanlan and John David and Dylan Languth. She also leaves behind two nieces Kimberly Dodds and Jennifer Scanlan, and a nephew Scott McMahon.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 12, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. at 4 Deerleap Pl, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
Donations in Barbara’s memory can be sent to Doctors without Borders or Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).
Arrangements are made under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518-584-5373).
Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com
