It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great grandmother Barbara Willette Bates Hemenway, who left us peacefully on September 30th 2024 at the age of 93. Born on October 26th in 1930 in Glendale, California. Barbara was a beacon of wisdom and love, touching the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Growing up in a time of great change, Barbara's life was a tapestry woven with resilience and adventure. She often shared stories of her some of her fondest memories, recalling her days at the University of Southern California in the Kappa Kappa Gamma house as the homecoming queen to her unbelievable brave days traveling by boat to Japan as a new military spouse and all the adventures and experiences she had overseas to becoming a mother to four beautiful children and the -all full of such detail and inspiration. These tales not only entertained us but taught us the importance of cherishing our roots and the values of hard work and perseverance.

Barbara was dedicated to her family. She was a loving mother to four children, who in turn blessed her with four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Each of us carried a piece of her love, her laughter, and her boundless wit. She was the quintessential entertainer and had a unique ability to make everyone feel special. Her kitchen was a sanctuary where delicious meals were prepared with love and precision. Family and friend gatherings at her home were filled with laughter, stories, and the aroma of her red pears and beef wellington.

Beyond her role as a grandmother, she was an active member of her community in various capacities. Her earlier professional years were spent as a decorated Red Cross coordinator, a title agent, a receptionist at a recovery center and a caregiver/companion to senior citizens. Barbara volunteered her time at the Missoula chapter Kappa house and the humane society as a true animal lover.

Barbara had a passion for entertaining. She sprung at any opportunity to host an event. She truly enjoyed cooking and happy hour, which she pursued with enthusiasm. She also spent time gardening and reading suspense novels. Barbara found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her curiosity about the world around her inspired us to explore and embrace our own passions.

Barbara was predeceased by her daughter Elizabeth Hemenway, her son Thomas Hemenway, and her sister Blanch Karine Bates. She is survived by daughters Judith Pryor and Brook Hemenway, granddaughters Meredith Musick, Melissa Kuchynka, Allison Hemenway and grandson Griffin Pierce, great grandchildren Macy Fekkers, Carson, Reagan and Evan Kuchynka, Aiden and Sophia Pierce.

As we say goodbye to Barbara, we remember her not only for her vibrant spirit but also for her unwavering strength. She faced many challenges with grace, reminding us that life’s trials could be met with resilience and faith. Her legacy will live on in the lessons she imparted and the love she shared.

We take comfort in knowing that she is now at peace, reunited with those who have gone before her. Her spirit will forever remain a part of our lives, guiding us as we navigate our own journeys. We will carry her love within us forever.

A celebration of Barbara’s inspiring life will be held on Friday, November 15th 2024 at the Garden City Harvest Barn from 4-6. Please join us to honor her with her favorites, red wine and a string of pearls. 

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/barbara-hemenway/obituary/

Copy