Obituaries

Barbara Rose Stephens passed away on May 21, 2022 at Frye’s Care Home in Eureka. Her husband, Ron, of 66 years, was at her side.

Barbara was born in 1933 in Osage County, Oklahoma, the youngest of 9 siblings to Clarence and Rose Woods. Barbara came to Eureka in the midst of the “Dust Bowl” in August of 1938 as a small child. Being a child during that time was a rough start for a newly minted Californian, but it gave Mom a strong will and determination that stayed with her for the rest of her life.

Barbara graduated from Eureka High in 1950 and proceeded to graduate from Humboldt College in 1955 with a degree in education and teaching. Barbara enjoyed a lifelong career in the Eureka City schools, teaching at the elementary and junior high levels.

Barbara met the love of her life in 1955, Ron Stephens, who was another fellow teacher in Eureka. They were married in 1956 and spent their entire married life in Eureka. During their summer breaks from teaching, they enjoyed traveling and later, their summer home in Willow Creek.

Barbara is survived by her husband, Ron of 66 years, daughter, Lynn Jacobsen, grandsons Anthony and Nick Pasquale, nieces, Pat Divinnie, Debbie Takamoto, Connie Titterington, Sandy Pon and nephews Gary and Roger Woods.

Barbara was predeceased by her parents, Rose and Clarence Woods, and siblings Grace Strickland, Bunny Divinnie, Ruth Lanning, Bruce, Glen, Don and Bernie Woods.

The family extends special thanks to Frye’s Care Home who were so helpful in the final year of her life.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 4 at Ocean View Cemetery with Jeff Ragan officiating.