Barbara A. Argabright

Barbara Ann Argabright, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, was welcomed into the arms of our Savior surrounded by her family on March 12, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, grace, and unwavering family values. She was born on December 27, 1935, in Goldsboro, NC, to William Paul Hill and Pauline Carter Hill. Being from North Carolina, Barbara’s southern charm was evident in every aspect of her life.

Barbara was a dedicated military wife to her late husband, Cecil, who was a proud member of the United States Airforce. Their life of service took them across the United States overseas to Guam, Japan and Hong Kong before settling in Atwater, California in 1970. Barbara chose a career in finance, working as a bank manager for many years.

Barbara was a devoted mother to two girls, Diane and Paulette. Her favorite pastime was shopping with them, with day trips lasting up to 10 hours. Barbara was devoted to service in her community, serving as a girl scout and brownie leader, and a Worthy Matron of the Eastern Star. Her favorite place to visit was the beach. She and Cecil shared a love of bowling, joining a local league wherever their military assignment took them. Barbara had an innate fashion sense and a natural gift for home décor. She gave special attention to her Christmas trees every year, with breathtaking decorations making them worthy of magazine covers.

Barbara was a devout Christian above all else. She attended Atwater Community Church, (now Faith Community Bible) since 1970, and later became a member. She joyously attended her weekly bible study meetings, where her thirst for knowledge of God continued to grow. She passed her gift of faith down to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband in 2008, whom she loved and missed every day. Barbara is survived by her loving daughters, Diane Knapp (Kurt) and Paulette Silveira (Joe); her grandchildren, Krystal Silva (Jon), Mikie Silva (Stacy), Nathan Silva (Dawn), Tiffany Machado (Mike), Nicole Argabright Silveira, Ashley Argabright Silveira, and Adam Argabright Silveira (Brittany); and twelve adored great-grandchildren: Mikie, Jessica, Zachary, Nathanial, Shayla, Maia, Noah, Isabella, Neve, Madison Argabright, Chloe, and Collin. She is also survived by her loving sister, Carolyn Evans; her brother-in-law, Thomas Evans; and her little brother, William Hill, and many nieces and nephews.

Barbara had a unique sense of humor that brought joy and laughter to those around her, even in the most challenging of times. Her life was one of faith, family and quiet strength. She was the epitome of our southern roots living her life with dignity, style, and grace. She was our matriarch and guiding light, and she leaves behind a legacy of love and unwavering family values. We love you, Mama.

Family will be holding a private service at Stratford Evans on March 20, 2025 followed by private burial at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery, Santa Nella, California.