Barbara Ann Howard

July 24, 1938-August 29, 2011

Barbara passed away peacefully and is now singing with the angels in heaven.

Barbara was born in Los Angeles, California. Her mother taught piano, and Barbara developed a lifelong love of music. When she was in high school, she played the glockenspiel in the Rose Parade in Pasadena. After high school, she earned her music degree at the University of Redlands. She became an accomplished pianist and music director. For 7 years she ran the Music Department at Sepulveda High School.

In the 80's, Barbara came to Ventura. She accompanied the Children's Chorus, the Gold Coast Chorale, the Marquie Dinner Theater, and the Thomas Acquinas Choir. She also directed and accompanied the Emmanuel Lutheran and Sacred Heart Catholic Church Choirs. Barbara also taught private piano lessons to many students. In addition, she worked in the insurance business and at the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging.

Barbara loved watching "Jeopardy," "Wheel of Fortune," and "Dancing with the Stars." She enjoyed reading the newspaper and doing crossword puzzles each day. Barbara loved decorating for the holidays--all of them!

She is survived by her uncle, Gordon Howard of Long Beach and her cousin, Cindy Tiesi of North Hollywood. Her many friends and students will remember her fondly.

Interment will be private.

A Memorial Service will be conducted by Pastor Ronald Dybvig at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 117 North 7th Street, Santa Paula, at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, September 3.

Donations may be made to Sacred Heart Church in Ventura, Emmanuel Lutheran in Santa Paula, or a charity of your choice.