Babs Land

Berkley "Babs" Barnum Land, 67, a lifelong Henrico resident, passed away on April 10, 2017, after a brief struggle with cancer. She was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, George Land; her brother-in-law, Ryland Whiteside; and her parents, Cora and Winfrey Barnum. Survivors include her daughter, Carrie Marsh (Lee); her special granddaughter and favorite shopping partner, Emily Marsh; along with her many nieces and nephews and their families; and her sister, Jackie Cosby (Cliff). Babs began her career at Blue Cross while attending J.R. Tucker High School. After graduating, she married George. She then stayed home to raise her daughter for seven years and resumed her working career with Henrico County Public Schools, where she worked for over 38 years. Babs served as school secretary at Baker E.S., Seven Pines E.S., and Shady Grove E.S. A dedicated and hardworking employee, she made lives better for generations of students, parents, and faculty with her kind and loving manner, sense of humor, and beautiful smile. Babs was also a talented artist who dazzled others with her painting, crafts, and her eye for color. From her parents, she inherited the rare gift of bettering all living things whether they were an upset student, a wilting hydrangea, or a frightened house cat. Special thanks to the staff at Bon Secours Community Hospice House; dear friends, Karen Howard and Eileen Goddin; niece, Susan Stafford and her husband, Johnny; and her Shady Grove E.S. family. Her remains rest at Nelsen Funeral Home, 4650 S. Laburnum Ave., Richmond, Va. 23231. The family will receive visitors on Friday, April 14, from 2 to 4 p.m. A celebration of Babs and George's life will follow visitation at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Bon Secours Community Hospice House, American Cancer Society, Alzheimer's Association or the Richmond SPCA.