Barbara J. Durkin

It's been many years and many miles, but I still see that impy grin and hear her laughing. What fun it was to work with Barb and be in her company.
I found Elaine and she told me about this site. Steve Tibs, I send you hugs and prayers and loving thoughts. Barb, until we meet again ...

I found a website describing what NOT to say to someone who lost a loved one. It made me laugh to realize that I've heard many of those stupid things from those who didn't know Barbara, but never from anyone who did.
She always knew what to say or do to be a true friend to those she loved. Without even trying, she taught that to those who loved her.

Steve, Calla, Chase and Nancy, we all love you and are thinking of you always.

Our hearts and thoughts are with you, Tibs.

We're sending all the emotional strength we have. I've never known anybody stronger than you. But don't hesitate to lean on the friends who love you.

Our deepest sympathy to you and your beautiful children.

Scott and Michele Powers

I'm enclosing the text from a eulogy I delivered at Barbara's funeral Saturday. I thought some of you who weren't there might like to read it.

When I called to order flowers for this funeral, I lost my composure. The woman on the other end of the line tried her best to help navigate me through the decisions: standing spray or European basket, which words of condolence to put on a card. When I told her Barbara's name, she said, "We've gotten calls from a lot of women about her....

I guess her friend Gayle said it best; she worked hard, she played hard; she loved hard. So lucky to have worked with her, played with her, and loved her. All my love and thoughts go to Tibs and their lovely children. Cathie

I'm sending good thoughts your way, Tibs. Your losses were great, but knowing you, your heart is greater.

I had the honor of being Barbara's co-worker and later, her editor, at Gannett. No one worked harder or cared more. I miss her.

Barbara...we will miss you

Tibs...all our thoughts are with you

Barbara was a terrific reporter in the newsroom and a good friend to all.
But my fondest memories are of Barbara on the tennis court where she and three other Sun-Sentinel reporters played some of the most mediocre doubles tennis imaginable.
We laughed a lot while reminding each other how badly we needed to keep our day jobs. Tennis pros we'd never be.
I'll always remember this laughing, joking Barbara who was great fun and a good sport.
My heart goes out to her husband...