Barbara Marie Novak, 76, of Northampton, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Arden Court Assisted Living, Allentown, surrounded by her loving family. Barbara would have celebrated 56 years of marriage to her high school sweetheart, Richard Alan Novak, on August 8th. Born August 31, 1949, in Grand Rapids, MI, she was a daughter of the late Theodore J. Jr. and Ethel (Stroud) Host. Barbara earned her bachelor's degree from Aquinas College. She devoted many years to serving the Hillsborough Township School District in Hillsborough, New Jersey, as a teacher/instructional assistant. In recognition of her dedication and impact, Barbara was honored as Instructional Assistant of the Year for both the school district and Somerset County. She was a member of Queenship of Mary Church. Barbara found joy in traveling and taking leisurely walks with friends. Above all, she cherished her family, and her children and grandchildren were the pride and joy of her life.

In addition to her husband, Barbara is survived by her daughter, Lynne Ryden and husband, Timothy; son, Thomas and partner, Alaina Watts; son, Christopher and wife, Kristen; grandchildren, Samantha, Timothy II, and McKenzie; brother, Ted and wife, Shirley; brother, Larry; sister, Mary Beth Host; sister-in-law, Pat Host; and nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother, Rick Host.

Services: A visitation with the family will be held on Tuesday, June 2nd from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Wednesday, June 3rd from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. in the Reichel Funeral Home, 326 E. 21st St., Northampton. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow on Wednesday morning at 10:30 a.m. in Queenship of Mary Church, 1324 Newport Ave., Northampton. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be presented to the church or Alzheimer’s Association Lehigh Valley chapter in Barbara's memory. Online condolences may be offered below.