Barbara D. Bookin

Barbara D. Bookin, 71, of Fernley, Nevada, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025.

Born on August 4, 1954, in Alameda, California, Barbara was the beloved daughter of the late James and Betty Blankenship. She was preceded in death by her sister, Holly Blankenship.

Barbara is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 20 years, Bill Bookin; her loving daughter, Cathy (Chad) Sanders; and her stepchildren Michelle (Charlie) Ross, Pamela Stevens, and Bill Pender. She was the proud and adoring Grammie of Corinne (Daniel) Posvar, Charlie (Lily) Sanders, Carson Sanders, Morgan Johnson, and Rainee Johnson, and the loving Great Grammie of Kenny Posvar, with another great-grandbaby joyfully anticipated next year, as well as Elliyanna and Linnea, Morgan's daughters. Though she never liked the nickname "Barbie," she made an exception for her great-grandson Kenny – she was the only one allowed to call him Ken and she affectionately referred to herself as "Barbie."

Barbara found true love and happiness when she married Bill in 2006. They lived in Manteca before selling their home and buying a huge RV where they spent more than five wonderful years traveling the country, visiting 45 states along the way. She never passed a casino without stopping to try her luck and was always up for an adventure. She loved stopping in Minnesota to see Michelle, Morgan, Rainee and Elliyanna and Linnea. One of her favorite stops was Washington, D.C., where she was in awe of the history and monuments. She also enjoyed going to various ghost towns throughout the United States. Their years traveling left her with a lifetime of fun memories.

After their traveling days were over, she and Bill settled in Fernley, Nevada where she enjoyed spending time at her favorite local spots Pioneer and Terrible's. You could find her at her favorite slot machine with a rum and coke in her hand always going for that big win. She loved watching game shows on TV and keeping up with current events. When she had family or friends over, she loved to make her famous clam dip and macaroni salad.

Barbara was kind, hysterically funny, and truly the life of every party. She never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a hand-or even the shirt off her back-to anyone in need.

Above all, Barbara's greatest joy was her family. She adored her grandchildren and loved being their "Grammie." Before her travels, she treasured Taco Tuesdays with Corinne, Charlie, and Carson, playing board games, and spending quality time with them. She was proud of them beyond measure and never missed a chance to brag about their accomplishments to anyone who would listen.

Barbara shared a deep bond with her daughter Cathy and valued their relationship with unwavering loyalty and warmth. When she was a single young mom, she always said it was her and Cathy against the world and Barbara made sure Cathy had everything she ever needed. She was her best friend.

Barbara was an amazing friend to many. If you became a part of her inner circle, you knew you had a friend for life and someone who would drop everything for you.

Barbara will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her, but her spirit will live on in the memories and laughter she leaves behind.