Barbara Helen Darby

Barbara Helen Darby, age 85, of Rochester, Michigan passed away on Friday, August 2, 2024. She was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on September 22, 1938. Barbara was involved with Campfire Girls thru her childhood, enjoying many wonderful Iowa summers at Camp Hitaga, where her mother was the Director. Barbara graduated from Franklin High School before earning her Bachelors in Education from Coe College. The Campfire Girls offered her a job which brought her to Michigan, where she met her husband Ralph; they were married on March 21, 1964. With a passion for helping students, she worked as a teacher in Rochester Schools until her daughters were born when she then transitioned to the role of home maker. After her children were grown she re-entered the school system as a paraprofessional. When she had time, Barbara enjoyed gardening, cooking, reading, and perhaps most of all shopping. She had a passion for life and sharing it with her many friends and family.

She is survived by her husband Ralph; daughters Kelly (Timothy) Chan and Kim (Ryan) Spencer; grandchildren Jennifer, Justin, Brenden, Ryan, and Casey; great grandchildren Roman and Dominic.

Barbara is predeceased by her brothers John Demmy Battin and Doug Battin.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Barbara's name may be made to the American Heart Association, as well as the American Cancer Society.

A visitation for Barbara will be held Monday, August 5, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Pixley Funeral Home, 322 W. University Dr., Rochester, Michigan 48307. Her funeral will be held at the funeral home the following day, Tuesday, August 6, at 11:00 AM with a visitation from 10:00 AM until time of service.