James (BARRY) Regan

James "Barry" Regan, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on September 13, 2026. Born on March 20, 1939, in Providence, Rhode Island. Barry was the cherished son of Charles W. Regan, Sr. and Emma Elizabeth (Leonard) Regan. Barry's life reflected the joys of family, education, and service to others. A proud graduate of La Salle Academy in Providence, he pursued higher education with vigor and earned both Bachelor's and Master's degrees from the University of Rhode Island. His thirst for knowledge led him to Rutgers University in New Jersey, where he achieved a PhD in Agronomy. In 1964, Barry married the love of his life, Linda F. Vaughn, and together they built a family rooted in love and mutual respect. Over their 62 years of marriage, they were blessed with four children: Michael (Michelle) Regan of Eureka, Illinois; Sandra Osbourne of Thomasville, North Carolina; Shelley (Tony) Kloba of Kenmore, Washington; and Patricia Regan of Chicago, Illinois. Barry was also a proud grandfather to Stephanie (Gus) Spanier, Steven (Maggie) Regan, Ashley Osbourne Travis Osbourne, Tara Osbourne, Katherine (Brennan) Sands, Jabari (Alayna) Simon, E. Simon III, Rachael Simon, and a great-grandfather to Owen Regan-Flowers, David Hite, Caitlyn Hite, and August Regan, brother to Sean Kevin Regan (wife Linda), and uncle to many nieces and nephews. Barry's professional life was marked by a distinguished 30-year career at Dow Chemical Company, where his work in agricultural research took him to Michigan, Illinois, Japan, and Indiana. Colleagues remember him for his unyielding dedication and the joy he brought to his work. Outside of his professional achievements, Barry found his greatest joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid gardener, known for his lush yard and thriving tomato plants, and he relished time spent outdoors fishing, hunting, and playing golf. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were often by his side, creating cherished memories. Those who knew Barry will remember him for his quick wit, warm smile, and the way he made everyone feel welcome and valued. His kindness and generosity left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Barry is predeceased by his parents, his brothers Charles, Gerald, and Courtney Regan, his nephew Sean Regan, and great-nephew Quinn Regan. His memory lives on in the hearts of his surviving family, including his devoted wife Linda, their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, his brother Sean Kevin (Linda) Regan, as well as his many nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on September 30, 2026, at 9:30 AM at St. Cajetan Catholic Church, located at 2445 West 112th Street, Chicago, IL 60655. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in memory of Barry, a cause he deeply cared about. The Regan family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the love and support they have received during this difficult time. Barry's legacy of love, laughter, and learning will live on in all.