Barbara Jean was born in Charleston, Arkansas to Rena Willie Coleman (Kile) and George Melvin Coleman. She spent portions of her childhood in Arkansas and California working and attending school. The family eventually settled in Washington where she graduated from Bainbridge High School in 1955.

Barb began her civil service career at the Naval Torpedo Station in Keyport, WA in 1965 and retired from the Department of Defense (Navy) at the Trident Refit Facility in 1998.

Barb’s passion and love in life was her family and gathering together with tons of food she had been preparing, with love, for days. She was hands on with her grandchildren and all the greats teaching them to cook, sew, do crafts and play board and card games. Holidays were huge for Barb and she went all out decorating and cooking for every single one. Each and every Christmas there were handmade gifts filled with love that she made for her entire family.

Disneyland was her favorite place and for as long as she was able to, she took everyone on a trip there, from her children to her great grandchildren.

Barb was also a huge Mariners fan and for many years traveled to Arizona with her husband and friends to the Mariners Spring Training camp for their vacations.

To know Barb was to know a person that loved her family and friends. As her family, we are truly honored to be with her in life as well as be with her in passing. We will ALL remember her warm smile and comforting hugs with fondness. Our family will always set a place at the table for her.

Barbara is survived by her children: Debby (Mike) of Suquamish, James of Suquamish, Teri (Eric) of Bremerton, Paula of Silverdale and by 6 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers: John, James, Henry and Larry. Barb is preceded in death by her father George-1958 brother Roy-1975, mother Willie-1990, husband Duane-2013, grandson Jack-2021.

The family requests in lieu of flowers that a donation can be made to a cancer research center of your choice in Barbara’s name.

There will be a gathering held in her honor on June 5, 2022 at 1pm. Location: Kitsap Square Dance Center

6800 W. Belfair Valley Rd. Bremerton, WA 98312

The family encourages dressing in Mariners or Disney attire. Potluck reception to follow.