Barbara Mae Stuart, beloved Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, Mother-in-law and friend passed away peacefully on April 24th surrounded by her family.
Barbara was born April 10th, 1927 on a ranch in Selah WA to Lucille and Alexander Wilson. She spent her early years there in a multi-generation household until the death of her Grandfather forced the family to move, which brought them to Seattle. Barbara attended John B Allen elementary school where she first met her future husband and love of her life, William Norman Stuart. They attended different high schools – Barbara Queen Ann, Norman Ballard. They met again and fell in love while both were students at the University of Washington, where Barbara majored in art. Barbara and Norman were married September 1st, 1950 and remained best friends and lovers until Norman’s passing in December 1977.
In 1958 Norman was called into the ministry and the young family moved to Berkeley CA where he attended Seminary. Upon his graduation Norman was called to pastor Suquamish United Church of Christ (Congregational) bringing the family home to Western Washington.
As a new Pastor’s wife Barbara was active in church life, PTA and her childrens’ activities. She was a fantastic role model – especially to her five children – displaying boundless optimism and quiet confidence.
After Norman’s passing Barbara became Director of North Kitsap Fishline, a local food bank where her drive and compassion were put to use for the good of the community. Though she never sought attention for herself, she was honored in the 70’s with the PTA’s Golden Acorn Award, in the 80’s by Governor Booth Gardner as a Volunteer of the Year and as a Poulsbo Chamber of Commerce Person of the Year and in the 90’s as one of Kitsap County’s Women of Distinction.
Barbara was a life-long artist and enjoyed painting, drawing, wood carving and other artistic outlets. She also loved to travel, but her absolute favorite thing was to be with her family.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents and her husband. She is survived by her only sibling, Alexander H Wilson of Anaheim CA, sons Bill Stuart (Lois Bresaw), Jon Stuart (Kelly Rosenbach), and David Stuart (Sonia), daughters Kate Eifrig (Martin), and Susan Mangold (Jeff), Grandchildren Erin, Brenna, Meghan, Carlie, Emily, Jamie, Mitchell, Alex, Stuart and Seth and Greatgrandchildren Emma and Sampson.
A Memorial Service and celebration of Barbara’s life will be held Saturday May 8th at Suquamish UCC 18723 Division Ave. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to NK Fishline or Suquamish UCC.
