Barbara Louise Smith, 72, of Manteca and formerly of Milford, DE, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, after an extended illness. She was born in Altoona, PA on October 26, 1951, daughter of Frederick P. and Betty E. (Glunt) Smith. In addition to her parents, preceding Barbara in death were her brother, Frederick P. Smith, Jr. and Barbara Kay Smith, his wife, and a sister, Mary C. Smith.

   Surviving Barbara are her sister, Sharon (Donald) Hathaway, and her nieces and nephews: Frederick P. (Mary) Smith, III, Michelle (Tom) McDowell, Jennifer (Carlos) Gomez, Andrew, Nicole (Tony) Barros and many great and great-great nieces and nephews, and cousins.

   Barbara relocated to Milford, DE in 1997. There she was employed by Burris Logistics for 20 years in the Human Resources department. Her Milford friends and co-workers quickly became like a second family.

   Barbara was known for her infectious smile and quick wit. To be Barbara’s friend meant you had a lifelong friend. She was a generous, loving woman with a heart of gold. Her deep faith in God and cheerful outlook guided her life.

In April of 2022, Barbara moved to Manteca, CA residing with her sister, Sharon and brother-in-law, Donald. She quickly made new friends without losing contact with her DE friends. Barbara especially enjoyed participating in a Bible Study group. She became an avid fan of the San Francisco Giants and the Golden State Warriors. She loved to travel, taking in the California sights and great weather.

    Family and friends will deeply miss Barbara. A Memorial Mass will be scheduled later, and she will be interred with her sister, Mary Smith, in Delaware.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Hospice of San Joaquin or to your favorite charity.

   P.L. Fry & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the Smith family. An online guestbook available for condolences at www.plfryandson.com

Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin

Tuesday, April 30, 2024