Barbara Jean Edwards

She was born in Huntington Beach, California and moved to Woodlake when she was in the 5th grade. Barbara graduated from Woodlake High School with the Class of 1960. Following graduation she attended College of the Sequoias and was hired as a clerk in the main office at Woodlake high School. When she retired in 2007, she was the Administrative Office manager and the “go to” person. If a staff member, student or parent need supplies, copies, proofreading, tickets or “you name it”, Barb was there to help.

She had a smile for everyone, unless you became a “problem” in the office in which case a very different smile gave a warning to “cool it”, you don’t need to be a ”problem”. Discipline occurred not only in the main office but often during brunch and lunch breaks. You could hear voice over the PA system: “Excuse me Mickey and Minnie, what are you doing? Remember hand holding only”.

She was selected as a honoree by the Tulare County Administrative Employee of the Year, Woodlake High School Classified Employee of the Year and was nominated for Woodlake Women of the Year. She served on the Board of Directors and Recording Secretary for Assistance Service Dogs Educational Center.

Barb had the distinguished honor of being one of the Charter Members of the Visalia Rockettes Drill Team. This group just celebrated their 50th year an award winning equine drill team.

She loved animals, cats and dogs, but horses were her favorite. The first adventure of retirement was to buy a horse to ride the range again.

A thank you goes to the staff at the Sequoia Cancer Center for their special care. A very special thank you filled with love goes to Missy Garcia, Barb’s oncology nurse. You always brightened the day and gave hope and faith. Your smile, laughter and caring have meant so much.

Another thank you to Frances Mann, Barb’s friend, co-worker and encourager. You were always there and did above and beyond in everything you do…you are loved.

Barbara is survived by her mother, Virginia Painter; her husband, Donald; three sons, Alan, Mike and wife Patty and Ryan and wife Kelly; four grandchildren, Erika, Aaron, Mia and Michael; three sisters, Linda Rogers, Penny Niadna and husband Ken and Patty Doughtery and husband Dave; several nieces and nephews and Louise Achenback, a friend of 45 years.

Contributions can be made to the Woodlake High School Foundations for scholarships or the St. Clement’s Day Care Center of Woodlake or “Cat On The Kings (a no kill shelter).

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2015 at 10 a.m. at the Presbyterian Church of Woodlake. Burial will follow at the Woodlake Cemetery. Refreshments will be in the church fellowship hall following services.

Tributes and condolences may be made at www.millerchapel.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Miller Memorial Chapel, 1120 W. Goshen Ave., Visalia, CA 93291 (559) 732-8371.