Barbara Frances Hess, 80, of Davenport, passed away Thursday, September 13, 2018 at Genesis West. Barbara was born on February 19, 1938 in Des Moines, the daughter of David and Mary (Neff) Hess. She taught at Central for all 46 years of her long and distinguished career. A Davenport native and an alumna of Madison, Hayes, Smart and Davenport High School, she received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Drake University and completed a one year fellowship at The College of William and Mary. In 1962 Barb was hired to teach American history and government. She would later develop and teach courses in Minority Cultures, Chicano Studies, Russian History, Comparative Government and many more. She didn’t shy from hard work and expected the same from her students. Four generations rose to her call. Likewise, she served as a mentor and role model for two generations of teachers. Outside of the classroom, Barb Hess focused upon student extracurricular activities serving as advisor to councils, events and groups. She gave of her time to serve as scorekeeper for the basketball team for 25 years and even a few years as assistant cheerleading coach. Barbara was a member of Phi Delta Kappa, National Education Society, Iowa Education Society, Davenport Education Society, National Trust for Historic Preservation, and National Council for Social Studies. She enjoyed sewing, reading and spending time with her pets. Barb frequently quoted James Goldman’s axiom that “the proper use of history is the elevation of mankind.” She spent a career and a half “elevating mankind” through her work at Central High. The more than 17,000 students she taught at Central and the hundreds of teachers and support staff she worked with will not soon forget Miss Hess. Those left to honor her memory include, brothers, David Hess, Florida, Donald (wife Joy), Hawaii, and; nieces, Jo Hess, Sue Hess Treppenhauer, Ann Hess, Gabriela Hess, and Michelle Hess Wilkes; three great nieces; and four great nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents. Per her wishes cremation rites will be accorded and there will be no services. Memorials may be made to the Scott County Humane Society or the Davenport Public Library. The Runge Mortuary will be assisting the family
with arrangements. Online tributes may be expressed at www.rungemortuary.com.
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