Barbara Jean Zeigenfuse

In Loving Memory of Barbara Jean Zeigenfuse

October 1, 1947 - June 3, 2025

Barbara Jean Zeigenfuse, beloved mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, at the age of 77. She departed this life at her home in Howard County, surrounded by the love of her devoted family.

Barbara was preceded in death by her cherished husband, John "Butch" Zeigenfuse, her loving parents, Grover and Dorothy Meade, and her dear sister-in-law, LaDonna Coffee.

She is survived by her three children: John Patrick Bahl and his wife Cindy, Melinda Bahl, and Barbie Mahaffey-Smith and her husband Keith. She also leaves behind her sister, Sharon Deasel and husband Joe, and her brother, Michael Meade.

Barbara was a proud grandmother to eleven grandchildren and their families:

Teisha and Christopher Gellespie; Brandy Collins and her children, Shane and Ilanna; Stephanie and Richard IV Andrews and their children, Dalanie, Amairis, Winter, and Richard V; Autumn Collins and her children, Nolan and Alaska; Jazmein Bahl; Ciera Bahl; Savanna Bahl and Shalton Blaylock, who are expecting a child due on Barbara's own birthday; Ruth Bahl; Grace Bahl; and Breanna Mahaffey and Nathan Mahaffey.

She is also lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews: Melissa and Tony Stout and their sons, Zachary and Nicholas; Sasha Meade and Alex Meade.

Known affectionately as "Jeannie" to her family and "Miss Barb" to all others, Jeannie was admired for her strength, warmth, and grace. A natural leader, she managed numerous food establishments throughout her life, earning deep respect from those who worked alongside her. She held high standards, yet always led with kindness and compassion.

Her generosity knew no bounds. Barbara's home, though modest, was a haven for those in need - a three-bedroom house with a single bathroom that somehow always had room for one more. At times, eight people lived under that roof, and yet, it never felt crowded - only full of love.

Jeannie was a woman who savored life's joys. She loved good food - steamed crabs, medium-rare steak, clams casino, and a tender rack of ribs - and could enjoy a feast with the heart of a foodie and the figure of a sparrow. She adored the ocean, making annual trips to Ocean City with her extended family. Days on the beach, nights dancing on the boardwalk, Thrasher's fries, and Dumser's ice cream were treasured traditions.

Family was her heart. Raised in a close-knit family, Jeannie treasured those ties throughout her life. Sundays were often spent gathered around the table with loved ones, the room filled with laughter, playful banter, and games of pinochle. Holidays were sacred - a time to celebrate togetherness, a value she passed on to the generations after her.

Jeannie's life was a beautiful testament to love, perseverance, humor, and faith. She inspired all who knew her - offering support, wisdom, and encouragement to countless souls who were fortunate enough to cross her path.

Her faith sustained her through life's trials. She worshiped at Edgewood Baptist Church, where she also taught Sunday School, and later attended Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Edgewood, Maryland. Her trust in God was unwavering and a source of quiet strength.

An avid Ravens fan, Jeannie never missed a game, cheering passionately from her living room with the spirit of a true Baltimore loyalist.

Above all else, Jeannie will be remembered for the legacy she leaves behind: a life rooted in love and anchored by family. She gave selflessly, loved fiercely, and lived joyfully. Those who knew her are better for it - and will carry her memory in their hearts forever.