Barbara Jean Bendix

Barbara was born on September 8, 1941 in Gunnison, CO. Her family moved around frequently, but settled at a ranch in Montrose, CO, where she enjoyed riding her horses. She met her first husband, Teodoro Valencia in Colorado and they built their own home together and welcomed her only child, a daughter, Diane. Years later, she made a permanent move to California and obtained a degree from College of the Sequoias in Sociology.

Throughout her years, she worked many jobs over a 60-year period, up until the age of 77. She had incredibly strong work ethic. But most importantly, she was a devoted Mother, Grandmother and Aunt. She enjoyed nothing more than spending time with the children in her life. She loved to read, cook and was a football enthusiast, being a die hard 49ers fan. She had a zest for life and was always on the go. She also always stood her ground and anyone who knew her would describe her as spirited and playful.

She is survived by her daughter, Diane Duvall, Visalia, CA; grandchildren Crystal Williams, Rachelle Williams, Kirk Duvall, Derek Duvall, all of Visalia, CA; four great-grandchildren; sister, Judy Wing, Kingsburg, CA; and numerous nieces and nephews. Barbara is preceded in death by her father and mother, Jesse and Dorothy McKinzie; and brothers Delbert McKinzie, Donald McKinzie, and Charles McKinzie.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 12, 2023 at 9 a.m. at Miller Memorial Chapel, 1120 W. Goshen, Visalia, CA.