Polly Barber

April 19, 1954 – September 22, 2025

“It is not length of life, but depth of life.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Polly Beth Barber, 71, of Springboro, Ohio, passed away peacefully in the comfort and warmth of her son’s arms on September 22, 2025, at 6:10 PM. Known for her warmth, creativity, and generous spirit, Polly lived a life devoted to family, craftsmanship, and caring for others.

She was the beloved daughter of Robert and Shirley Gauby of Centerville, Ohio, and was preceded in death by both. In 1973, Polly married the love of her life, Thomas Raymond Barber, and they shared 46 wonderful years together until his passing in 2019.

Polly is survived by her son, Thomas Edward Barber, and his life partner, Zachary Ballard (whom she adored), of Waynesville, Ohio; her sisters Jill Robinson (Gauby) and family of Centerville, Ohio, and Gretchen Ulbricht (Gauby) and family of Seguin, Texas; and her brother, Peter Gauby and family of Mainville, Ohio. She also leaves behind many cherished brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, and her beloved “grand-furry-babies,” who brought her endless joy.

A gifted seamstress from an early age, Polly began by sewing her own doll clothes as a child and later crafted clothing for her son before moving on to design and alter countless garments, including custom wedding dresses. She spent much of her career as co-owner, with her closest and dearest friends, of the Springboro Sewing Shop, where her skill and attention to detail were admired by the community. After retiring in 2016, Polly devoted herself to caring for her mother and husband at home.

Polly had a lifelong love for animals, especially her horses and pets, which brought her great joy throughout her life. She always gave more than she received, and her legacy of love, creativity, and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A celebration of Polly’s life will be held at Anderson Funeral Home, 40 N. Main St., Springboro, Ohio, on Sunday, September 28, 2025. A private family viewing will take place between 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm, followed by a public viewing from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. She will be laid to rest the next day at Springboro Cemetery at 10:00 am, following a private service at the Springboro Cemetery Chapel. If you choose, you can donate in lieu of flowers to Day City Hospice, 7601 Paragon Rd. Suite 201, Dayton, Ohio 45459, or at https://daycityhospice.com/donate in memory of Polly Beth Barber.

She will be remembered for her kindness, her artistry, and her unwavering love for family.