Barbara Ann Bladen

Barbara Ann Bladen, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, died peacefully on June 12, 2025, in Carlsbad, California, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and quiet strength.

Born in Philadelphia in 1946 to George Washington Sly and Isabella Margaret Semple, Barbara grew up with her two sisters, Margaret Elizabeth ("Betsy") and Rebecca Louise ("Becky"). Her lifelong passion for language led her to earn a degree in Literature and Writing Studies at California State University San Marcos.

Barbara dedicated much of her life to nurturing young minds. She supported multilingual learners in early elementary grades and later worked with children in kindergarten through third grade, providing emotional and developmental support. In both roles, she brought warmth, patience, and empathy into classrooms and counseling spaces alike.

Barbara was a devoted mother to Jennifer Bladen of North Hollywood, California, and Meredith Mahoney of Nashua, New Hampshire. She was the proud grandmother of Noah (25), Gregory (15), and Kieran (12), who brought her immeasurable joy and whom she cherished deeply.

A passionate community member, Barbara found fulfillment and connection through her volunteer work. She was active with the Friends of the Carlsbad Library and led local initiatives with the Del Mar-Leucadia branch of the American Association of University Women. Through AAUW, she helped raise funds and award grants to send girls to Tech Trek, a transformative STEM camp. She also found great enjoyment in the intellectual and social rewards of bridge, earning ACBL Masterpoints along the way.

Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 39 years, James Benjamin Bladen; her sister, Betsy; her parents; and her cherished mother-in-law. She is survived by her daughters, grandchildren, and her sister Becky, as well as her nieces and nephews: Gabrielle Herring and Dominique Herring; Karey Gonzalez and Scott Tiano; Tamara Head and Matthew Simmons-each of whom will carry her memory forward with love and gratitude.

She will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at Annandale United Methodist Church in Annandale, Virginia-the church where she and Jim were married in 1967, and where he is also buried.

Her daughters will host a celebration of life at home on June 19, welcoming friends and family to honor Barbara's memory together.

In honor of Barbara's love for public broadcasting and lifelong learning, donations may be made in her name to KPBS at https://donate.kpbs.org/kpbs/donate, or to your local public radio or television station.