Barbara Jo Barber

Barbara Barber, born on March 30, 1944, passed away peacefully at home on July 15, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born Barbara Jo Russell, at Fort Warren Army Airbase in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to Alice and Irvin Russell, she shared a special bond with her identical twin sister, Bonnie, arriving just 15 minutes ahead of her. Growing up, they were the middle children, tucked between older brothers, Joe and Butch, and younger sister, Jainie. Her family moved to Cody in 1948.

After graduating from Cody High School, Barbara met the love of her life, Tom Barber, at Northwest Community College in Powell, Wyoming. They were married in 1964 and continued their educational journey together at the University of Wyoming. Barbara dedicated her career to nurturing young minds, primarily as a kindergarten and first-grade teacher. After earning her Master’s degree from the University of Oregon in the late 70s, she became an exceptional master teacher, always eager to help her colleagues succeed. She taught 23 years in the Redmond School District until her retirement.

In retirement, Barb and Tom embraced the open road, setting off on memorable cross-country adventures in their motor home. Their love for travel was highlighted by a trip to Europe to celebrate their 40th anniversary. Barbara’s days were filled with the simple joys of quilting, knitting, gardening, and golf. Her faith, along with her participation in church, book club, and PEO, were cornerstones of her life. She was a passionate quilter who cherished the time spent with friends—working on projects, attending quilt shows, and enjoying annual beach getaways. She and Tom were long-time members of the Juniper Golf Club, where they shared countless rounds with their children, Michael and Valerie, and many friends.

Barbara faced the challenges of Parkinson’s disease with incredible grace, particularly after 2015. Throughout her physical trials, her cheerful spirit, enduring kindness, and Christian faith defined her final years.

Barbara is lovingly remembered by her husband, Tom; her children, Jodie Weaver and Michael Barber; her grandchildren, Elyana and Andrew Weaver, Piper Grindstaff, Jessica Grindstaff Bryant and her great-granddaughter, Adeline Bryant. She is also survived by her twin sister, Bonnie Capron and family; her sister, Jainie Anderson and family; her brother, Clifford “Butch” Russell and family; and the family of her late brother, Joseph Russell. She is preceded in death by her parents; her grandsons, Stuart and Damon Grindstaff; her daughter, Valerie Barber Mallory; and her brother, Joe Russell.

A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Zion Lutheran Church, 113 SW Black Butte Drive, Redmond, OR 97756. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Valerie Mallory Memorial Scholarship in care of the Jefferson Scholarship Foundation, P.O. Box Z, Madras, OR 97741. Email:JeffersonScholarshipFoundation@gmail.com

Arrangements handled by Baird Funeral Home. Please visit www.bairdfh.com to sign the online guest book.