Barbara Walker

Barbara S. Walker, 84, of Vandalia, Ohio, died Monday, December 31, 2012, at Miami Valley Hospital after a short illness. Born Barbara Margaret Smith on March 22, 1928, in Xenia, Ohio, she was raised by her mother, Anna Collins Bailey, in Cedarville, OH. She was a graduate of Beavercreek High School and Monmouth College, Monmouth, IL. She was a teacher in Illinois and Virginia after graduating from college. After her marriage she lived in Knollwood; the Cleveland area; Paris, France; Mystic, CT; and Indialantic, FL, before returning to the Dayton area. She spent many summers in Chautauqua, NY. She had a wonderful sense of humor and made many lasting friendships everywhere she lived. An avid gardener and theatergoer, she was also an enthusiastic cook, and a formidable organizer. She volunteered in many school and public libraries, and was always a friend to children. Beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, she is survived by her husband of 61 years, Robert; son Mitch (Sarah Hoban) of Barrington, IL; daughter Margaret (John Wallace) of Cornwall, VT; grandchildren Anna Walker, Kate Wallace, and Jack Wallace. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 12, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 125 N. Wilkinson St., Dayton. Donations in her memory may be made to the Westminster Presbyterian Church, 125 N. Wilkinson St., Dayton, OH 45402; or Dayton Metro Library, Library Donations Community Relations, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH 45402; or a charity of your choice. Send condolences to the family by signing the Guestbook at www.routsong.com.