DUE TO THE INCLEMENT WEATHER THE MEMORIAL SERVICE HAS BEEN POSTPONED.
A visitation for family and friends will be held at 10 am to 11 am with a service following immediately after on WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4 at McCrery & Harra Funeral Home, 3924 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803
With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing of a most beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother on February 14, at the age of 93.
Barbara was born on January 13, 1933, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and raised in Upper Darby by her parents, Henry and Reta Laib, alongside her two younger sisters, Linda and Jody. From an early age, she exhibited strength, independence, a generous spirit, and a deep sense of compassion that would define her entire life.
In 1956, she proudly graduated from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine School of Nursing, beginning a lifelong commitment to caring for others. One year later, on January 13, 1957, she married the love of her life, Presley Goodwyn, whom she met on a blind date. Their marriage—lasting an extraordinary 69 years—was a beautiful testament to devotion, partnership, faith, and enduring love.
Together, they raised four children: Richard, Barbara, Jane, and Lois, who were the center of her world. Her legacy continues through her seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, who referred to her as ‘Grammie’ and she adored beyond measure. Being Grammie was one of her greatest joys, and her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and love.
She was a woman of deep faith, steady grace, and unwavering love. She volunteered tirelessly at her church in countless capacities, served as a Girl Scout troop leader, and poured her heart into service to others. She cherished Bible study, loved playing bridge, and found joy in traveling with the Primetimers. She never forgot a birthday, never missed a chance to send a card, and wrote endless letters filled with love, encouragement, and thoughtfulness—small gestures that made an enormous impact on so many.
Her second home and true passion was Ocean City, New Jersey. The shore was her sanctuary. Whether hosting family and friends, creating endless memories, or simply sitting peacefully on the front porch listening to the ocean, she found many of her happiest moments there.
She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and the heart of her family. It is estimated she lovingly prepared more than 15,000 bagged lunches, a symbol of the quiet, daily sacrifices that defined her life. She was a great cook, a loyal fan of the Philadelphia Phillies, indulged in soap operas, and found joy in attending Broadway musicals. She always enjoyed a strong old fashioned or a gin and tonic.
Her life was a living example of kindness, devotion, service, and faith. She lived thoughtfully, loved fully, and gave endlessly. She leaves behind a legacy not only in the family she built, but in the countless lives she touched through her compassion, generosity, and strength.
She will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and always remembered.
She is proceeded in death by her parents Henry and Reta Laib, and sister Jody Volz.
She is survived by her husband Presley, her children Richard (Lorrie), Barbara (Tom), Jane (Pete) and Lois; grandchildren Paul (Estefy), Christopher (Emily), Mike, Jack, Jeff, Hannah and Drew (Christy); great grandchildren Daniel, Landon, Charlotte, Sofia and Miles; sister Linda Reisen, and many nephews and nieces.
A visitation for family and friends will be held at 10 am to 11 am with a service following immediately after on Wednesday March 4 at McCrery & Harra Funeral Home, 3924 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Barbara’s memory may be made to Linden Hall Nursing Home; 147 West State St, Kennett Square, PA 19348 or Brandywine Valley Church; 7 Mount Lebanon Rd, Wilmington, DE 19803 (Attn: Financial Dept).
For online condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com
