Barbara J. May

She graduated from El Rancho High School in Pico Rivera. Right out of high school she started working for Rockwell as a stenographer and later earned her Masters degree from La Verne University. After many years of hard work, BJ ended her career with Rockwell as VP of Communications.

Outside of work, Barbara was an avid tennis player, enjoyed softball, and was a huge Arizona Diamondback fan. BJ also loved to read and especially enjoyed learning about history and art.

Almost 40 years ago, she met Eugene May through mutual friends. They shared a love of travel, and their adventures took them all over the world. Eugene proposed to Barbara in Singapore, they were married in Banff, Canada and every summer they hit the open road to explore in their RV. BJ took particular delight in collecting photos and souvenirs along the way, and also created detailed scrapbooks to preserve their memories.

When she was home, BJ wasn't the life of the party, she WAS the party. Always entertaining family and friends, she loved to cook and made the world's best potato salad. BJ always set a full table using her collection of tablecloths and napkins, even for a simple family dinner. Most of all she cherished the quality time spent talking with her guests of all ages.

Her adventurous and generous spirit was matched by her compassion for others, which was evident in her community involvement.

Barbara served as a Senior Docent at the Arizona Art Museum, where she loved going to local schools and teaching children about art. Her dedication to sharing her passion for art with the younger generation left a lasting impact on many.

She passed away on August 16, 2025 at the age of 83. She was preceded in death by her husband.

She is survived by two sons and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and beloved friends.