With our deepest sorrow, we share with you the passing of our beloved mother, mommom, sister, aunt, and best friend. Barbara Elizabeth Yurko died on November 15, 2024 at home with family at her side.

Barbara was born to Salvatore and Ermelinda Marasa (nee Fioravanti) on January 26, 1939.  Salvatore was an Italian Immigrant, which contributed to the Italian traditions still enjoyed today.  Barbara grew up in Philadelphia, and moved to Riverside, NJ as young girl until her father was drafted. Barbara attended Saint Edwards Roman Catholic School and Little Flower High School class of 1957. She was captain of the Little Flower basketball team and a graduate of Chestnut Hill School of Nursing 1959. She perfected skills such as wound wrapping and splinting by practicing on her younger brother Anthony.

Barbara married the love of her life, Robert M. Yurko I in April 1962. Together they had three children Linda, Robby, and Rick. A registered nurse for over five decades, Barbara was employed at Albert Einstein Medical Center until she retired in 2014. She provided care, comfort, and expertise to countless patients in various settings. Her dedication is a true testament to her selfless service and unwavering commitment to helping others, which defined her life's work.

Ultimately Barbara's favorite joy was her family. She taught her family the importance of being strong, patient, and considerate. Affectionately known as Mommom, she was always there to clean the inevitable cuts at the kitchen counter and help with tricky homework problems.  She provided a safe space whenever needed, and most importantly provided endless love and acceptance to those around her. Her generosity knew no bounds. Her favorite past times were reading, puzzling, gardening, vacationing, playing pinochle and rummy, betting the ponies, and eating popcorn with her son. Her laughter remained until reaching her heavenly home.  Barbara is survived by her sons Robert A. Yurko (Dianna), Richard R. Yurko (Christine), Grandchildren Robert M. Yurko II (Rachel), Jocelyn Malriat (Jonah), Alexandra Yurko, Janine Monico (Dave), Lauren Stevens (Jay), Gabrielle Haynes (Dan), Nicholas Yurko, Catherine Yurko, her brother Anthony Marasa, lifetime friend Barbara Pruszinski, as well as great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to her caregivers, Munira, Krista, and Jess, for the compassionate and respectful care that allowed Barbara to pass peacefully at home.

Barbara is predeceased by her husband, Robert M. Yurko I, her daughter Linda A. Stevens (nee Yurko), and her parents Salvatore and Ermelinda Marasa.

Services will be held privately.