Barbara Micklay, 1928–2026, loving wife, mother and aunt

Barbara J. (Robinson) Micklay, of Artisan at Hudson Community, formerly of Waltham, died Saturday, March 7, 2026 at her home. She was 98.

Barbara J. Robinson was born Jan. 19, 1928 in Watertown, a daughter of the late John Robinson and Violet (Rosborough) Robinson Isaccson. Raised in Watertown she graduated from Watertown High School. She was married to the late Donald A. Micklay until his death in 2012. A longtime Waltham resident she moved to Artisan at Hudson in 2022 where she easily adapted to her new surroundings and community and quickly became a much-loved resident.

Barbara worked as clerk for the Registry of Motor Vehicles in Watertown for over 25 years. She was a friendly face and respected colleague.

A talented knitter amongst her many talents and treasures, she made Christmas stockings for family and friends, a timeless and treasured gift. She was also known by many as ‘Auntie’. A longtime member of the former First Baptist Church of Watertown she transferred her membership to the First Baptist Church of Belmont when her church closed.

In addition to her beloved husband, Donald, she was predeceased by their only daughter, Linda Micklay, and brother, John W. ‘Jack’ Robinson and his late wife, Diane.

She leaves her nephew, Scott D. Robinson (Mary) of Hudson, and niece, Lori Fone (Michael) of Sun City, Florida; and her great nephews and nieces, Nicholas, Diane, Kaitlin, Lyndsay and John Robinson.

Barbara was also the aunt of the late John B. Robinson.

Family and friends will honor and remember Barbara’s life by gathering for a morning wake in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham, on Thursday, March 19 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. followed by her funeral service at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Ridgelawn Cemetery, Watertown.