

Barbara’s life was a testament to strength, humor, generosity, and unwavering love. She passed away surrounded by the family she fought so hard to spend more time with.
Born on November 11, 1960, Barbara grew into a woman whose presence brought warmth, steadiness, and a touch of mischievous humor to everyone who knew her. She dedicated her entire life to caregiving, spending 25 years serving as a nurse at YRMC, where she cared for patients with a rare combination of patience, kindness, and intuition. Her calming presence—and occasionally dark, perfectly timed humor—left lasting impressions on both patients and colleagues.
At home, Barbara was the heart of her family. She was an extraordinary mother to her children, Carina Phillips and Derek Hall, and a deeply supportive mother-in-law to Paul Phillips and Kiendra Hall. Her five grandchildren—Delilah, Amelia, and Barrett Hall, and Emberly Ann and Arabella Phillips—knew her lovingly as “Bushka.” She cherished each of them, celebrating their milestones, teaching them in the kitchen, and spoiling them in all the best ways. Being their grandma was one of the greatest joys of her life.
Barbara was diagnosed with uveal melanoma ten years ago, followed by metastatic liver cancer five years later. She met these challenges with remarkable determination and grace. For three years, she traveled weekly to Philadelphia for treatment—committing herself to these journeys with courage and purpose. She often said she did it for more time with her family, and she approached each trip like it was her job. Even in the most difficult moments, she rarely complained. She was a fighter in every sense.
Her zest for life remained intact. Barbara was an avid baker, filling her home with the comforting smells of fresh sourdough bread, beloved “Bushka muffins” for the grandkids, and mastering countless vegan recipes. She loved exploring the world and shared many adventures with her partner of over twenty24 years, James Putman. Together they traveled to Ireland, Hawaii, and enjoyed countless road trips. She also treasured her travels with Carina to Germany and New Zealand, creating memories that became family treasures.
Barbara found solace and happiness in the homes she made. She adored her summers in Michigan, surrounded by nature and family. She equally loved her time in Yuma, where she could be found relaxing in the pool on warm days, soaking in the sun, and savoring peaceful moments.
She was a caring daughter, a loving sister, and a devoted friend who gave freely of herself. Her loyalty, honesty, and warmth made her someone people relied on and confided in. Her strength—in hardship and in everyday life—was a guiding force for those close to her.
Barbara passed away on November 29, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, love, and courage. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace—free from pain, surrounded by light, and forever watching over those she loved so fiercely.
A funeral service will be held on December 13, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 2555 S Engler Ave, Yuma, AZ. A gathering for family and close friends will follow at her home for a celebration of her life.
Her memory will live on in the hearts she touched, the family she nurtured, and the countless lives she improved simply by being herself.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIOCOMPARTA
v.1.18.0