She was born on March 7, 1947 in Brawley, California to her parents Enriqueta Gonzales and David Hinojosa. When her mother died unexpectedly in an accident Barbara immediately took on the role of surrogate mother to her younger siblings. It was a role she would assume through much of her life. She cared deeply and fully for everyone in her care, and often thought of herself last. She found great joy in caring for others, be they humans, her much loved animals, or her precious plants and garden vegetables.
She lived most recently in Loveland, Colorado but also lived for a time in Henderson, Las Vegas, where she worked as a human resources manager for several years. Prior to that, and for the majority of her life, she lived in Central and Southern California, which is where she felt most at home. She enjoyed her work in n Alzheimer’s facility immensely, interacting with the residents and helping them feel a sense of connection, even if just for a moment. That was a gift Barbara had.
It was earlier in California where she met her husband Murray Jacob Sr, the father of her three children, Mia, Murray Jr., and Jessica. It was also in California that she discovered her faith and became baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. This remained an integral part of who she was and affected the rest of her life in every way. She touched many people with her hope for the future; a world free of the pain and suffering which had been such a constant feature in her own life.
Sadly, Barbara and Murray ended their marriage after nearly 20 years together. Happily, though, Barbara was able to find love again, re-connecting with a high school friend, Robert C. Melton, and eventually marrying and starting life together anew.
Barbara’s greatest love, especially as she grew older, was spending time with her grandchildren. She was so proud of them, and loved to have as many of them as possible at any given time. She is survived by 6 grandchildren and 2 step-grandchildren, as well as the afore-mentioned 3 children, 2 sons-in-law and additionally 2 step-sons and their wives. Also she has been preceded in death by her mother and sister.
It is difficult to out into words a more warn, generous, and beautiful soul. She will be remembered as such for as long as the rest of us shall live.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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