Barbara J. Joyal

Barbara J. Joyal, 69, of Warwick, passed away at home on March 5, 2026, after a courageous battle with ALS. She was a beloved wife, sister, aunt, and friend whose intelligence, compassion, and quiet strength touched everyone who knew her. Barbara was lovingly cared for in her final days by her wife Susan and their Norfolk Terriers, Cali and Myles.

Born in Woonsocket to the late Robert and Jane (Perry) Joyal, Barbara graduated from North Smithfield High School before earning her degree from the University of Rhode Island School of Pharmacy. Following in her father’s footsteps, she devoted her career to pharmacy, working in hospitals and methadone clinics across Rhode Island. Colleagues and patients respected her deep knowledge, unwavering commitment, and genuine care. She was a proud member of the Rhode Island Pharmacists Association.

Beyond her professional life, Barbara was passionately involved in the dog show community for decades. She served as show chairman for the Harvest Cluster Dog Show for the Irish Setter Club of New England, the Eastern Irish Setter Club, and the Irish Setter Club of Central Connecticut for more than twenty years. She also helped manage four Irish Setter National Specialties in Warwick and served as the New England Representative for the Irish Setter Club of America Rescue.

Barbara shared 42 beautiful years with her wife, Susan Johnson, filled with love, laughter, and companionship. Together they enjoyed softball, their beloved Irish Setters and Norfolk Terriers, and a wide circle of dear friends. She is survived by her loving wife Susan, sisters Christine (Keith) Mathieu and Carol Arcand, and cherished nieces and nephews Michelle LaFlamme, Cailin Arcand-Cortez, Dr. Keith Mathieu, Kristine Salvo, MD, Tracy Fine, Scott Carlsten, and Katherine Kaplan. She was predeceased by her parents and brother-in-law Tony Arcand.