Barbara found joy in the simple pleasures of life and treasured the time she spent with family and friends. She enjoyed attending exercise classes, participating in the Red Hat Society, and gathering with friends at the Lexington Seniors Luncheons. She had a love for cats, reading, working on jigsaw puzzles, and attending auctions. One of her special comforts was relaxing with her beloved cat, Sammy Boy, who held a very special place in her heart.
Barbara also loved going out to eat, with O'Charley's and Mansfield Restaurant among her favorite places. Holidays were especially meaningful to her, as she enjoyed celebrating and making memories with family and friends. She was a member of Ontario United Methodist Church.
Barbara is survived by her beloved Sammy Boy and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward Maxwell; her parents, Melvin and Dorothy Willis; her brother, Jim Willis; her sister, Judy Miller; and her nephew, Robert James Deffendoll.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Wappner Funeral Directors and Crematory-Ontario, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road, Ontario, Ohio, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Barbara will be laid to rest at Mansfield Memorial Park.
