Barbara Jean McMinn

1944 - 2025

BARBARA JEAN McMINN

January 25, 1944 – June 14, 2025

Barbara was born on January 25, 1944, in Norfolk, Nebraska, to loving parents Merwin and Edith Arter. On June 14, 2025, she passed away peacefully at Brookdale Riverwalk Claire Bridge from the progression of Lewy-Body dementia. Barbara was the fourth of six children and was blessed with close relationships with her brothers and sisters: Larry, Denny, Judy, Sandra, and Jeff.

In the late 1950s, Barbara and her family moved to Bakersfield, where she graduated from North High School in 1960. She met the love of her life, Dolphus, in 1961, and they were married on August 18, 1962. Together they shared more than 62 years of marriage and raised two daughters, Tamera (Dobbs) and Michelle (de los Santos).

Barbara is survived by her devoted husband, Dolphus; her daughters, Tamera and Michelle (Jaime); her greatest joys, her grandchildren Jourdan, Kalyn, Daniel, and Joseph; her sisters Judy and Sandra; and her brother Jeff.

Barbara's work in the grocery business, with her warm smile, quick wit, and kind spirit, led to lifelong friendships. Beyond that, she devoted countless hours to her children's pursuits in 4-H and to cultivating the small family farm she and Dolphus built together. She will be remembered for her delicious meals and baking, her keen interest in current events, and, above all, her deep love for family and friends. Barbara enjoyed nothing more than hosting dinners and BBQs, enjoying card games and dessert with friends, and especially, retirement with her husband, Dolphus. Together they traveled in their RV with those friends and family, visiting beautiful locations throughout the United States, and occasionally venturing farther on cruises to Alaska and the Panama Canal. Barbara was always happy to stop in at a tribal casino to support their mission.

The family is grateful for the care and love Barbara received from Hoffman Hospice and the staff at Brookdale Claire Bridge during her final months.

At the wishes of Barbara's family, there will not be a service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hoffmann Hospice for their exceptional care for Barbara.

She will be deeply missed, and her memory will forever be a blessing to her family and friends. It is a comfort to know you are at peace in Heaven.

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