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Barbara Smith Obituary
Barbara Lou Smith, 85, of Findlay, passed away Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023.
She was born Dec. 24, 1937. Barbara was a caring, family-oriented woman who was known for her strong independence and disciplined nature. She was a hard worker and dedicated herself to multiple occupations throughout her life, including being a beautician, bus driver, truck driver, and factory worker. One of her career highlights was serving as a shuttle bus driver at the 1996 Summer Olympics.
Barbara was a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her brother, Jerry Sheldonl children, Rebecca (David, deceased) Bates, Robert (Margie) Smith, and Dennis (Cathy) Smith; grandchildren she was cherished by, Jeremy (Jackie) Bates, Adam (Jennifer) Bates, Michael Smith, Andrew (Laura) Smith, Ashley (Bryan) Ferrasci, Clay (Aimee) Smith, and Levi (Mandy) Smith; great-grandchildren who will deeply miss her, Zack and Luke Bates, Colin and Aden Bates, Satie and Leroy Ferrasci, Maddilynn Smith, Blake and Tucker Smith, and Ava and Austin Smith.
Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Leroy Smith; parents, Leon and Leonna Sheldon; siblings, Shirley Wiler, Arthur Sheldon, and Martin Hunt; son-in-law, David Bates; and longtime friend, Clifford Peterson.
Barbara enjoyed attending West Independence United Methodist Church and found solace in her faith. She was a fan and avid visitor of her kids and grandkids' sporting events, always cheering them on from the sidelines.
A memorial service will take place in Barbara's honor. For more information about the service, please visit the COLDREN-CRATES FUNERAL HOME, Findlay, website.
In lieu of flowers and gifts, the family kindly requests that donations be made to West Independence United Methodist Church and St. Jude in Barbara's memory.
Condolences may be expressed at www.coldrencrates.com.
Please join us in celebrating the life of Barbara Lou Smith, a strong and caring woman who leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to her family and community.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Barbara Smith
Sponsored by Coldren-Crates Funeral Home - Findlay.
Bea Hiatt
September 13, 2023
Becky so sorry to hear of ur mothers passing. Prayers miss the old days my husband so loved ur dad and mom. Lov to ur family
David Ritz
September 12, 2023
David Ritz
September 12, 2023
David Ritz
September 12, 2023
Aunt Barb was more than an Aunt to me. She came to support me at my high school games. She showed up for my homecomings from deployments to Iraq with a shirt that had my picture on it! She came to my commissioning when I became an officer. She helped me move into the first home I bought. She was kind, compassionate, loving and one of the toughest ladies I´ve ever met. Always at my families side when I needed them, her support helped me have the career I´m currently enjoying in the Marine Corps. Unfortunately that is what keeps me from being at the funeral. I will see you again one day in heaven though Aunt Barb. Thank you for everything.
Love you! David Ritz
Sandi Berry Musser
September 12, 2023
Sending prayers, love and hugs. I am so sorry for your loss.
Ada Cmpbell
September 11, 2023
Barb was a good friend and neighbor. She was one of the first to welcome us when we moved across from her in 2005 and our friendship continued. She was fun to visit with and upbeat even when not feeling good. I will miss her!
Ada Campbell
Van Scoy Family
September 11, 2023
To Barb Smith's Family- So very sorry for your loss....Barb was a great caring cheerful friend..we will miss her "Happy Face and her Lovely Laugh...we were blessed to have had her for a wonderful neighbor...
Sincere Heartfelt Condolences,
Bryan and Marilyn Van Scoy
Vincent Van Scoy
and Sparky
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Coldren-Crates Funeral Home - Findlay205 West Sandusky Street, Findlay, OH 45840
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