Barbara Louise Smith's Obituary
Barbara Louise Smith, 73, of Buckeye, Arizona died in Virginia on January 18, 2011.
She is survived by three children and two sons-in-law, Christopher Ross of Scottsdale, AZ, Marti Jo and Joshua Barrett of Fredericksburg, VA, and Todd and Shelly Smith Hornback of Buckeye, AZ; four grandchildren, Courtney Ross-Tait (whom she raised) of Los Angeles, CA, Tryndon and Trevin Smith Hornback, and Cameron Barrett; and brother, “Billy” Wells of Romeo, MI. Her firstborn child, Andrea Lynne Ross, and four beloved miniature Chihuahuas preceded her in death.
Barbara was born on August 7, 1937 in Detroit, MI to Charles and Louise Wells. She moved to San Diego, CA in 1974 and retired in Scottsdale, AZ in 1999.
Barbara was a retired property manager who enjoyed music, gardening, beading, and billiards. A cervical and tonsillar cancer survivor, Barbara endured life’s challenges with strength and grace. She devoted herself to her children and grandchildren. In her final days, inspired by singer Peggy Lee, Barbara encouraged loved ones to “Keep on dancin’!”
A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 29, 2010 at 2:00 pm at Merkley-Mitchell Mortuary in San Diego, CA. A reception will follow in El Cajon, CA at the home of Karen and Don Anderson.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be sent to Arizona Humane Society.
Online condolences may be expressed to Barbara’s family at foundandsons.com.
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