Obituary published on Legacy.com by Habegger Funeral Services on Nov. 12, 2025.
Toledo, Ohio – Barbara J. "Bobbi" Smith, 84, passed away on November 7, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, sweet tea, and an infectious laugh that could light up any room. She was born on September 9, 1941.
To her family, she was known by many things "Ma", "Mom", "Bobbi", "Grandma" or "Mamaw," the spirited heart of a home where countless memories were made. With a famously ornery streak and a wonderful sense of humor, Bobbi kept her family laughing until the very end. As a mother, she was strict, raising her children with a firm hand to keep them on the straight and narrow. A testament to the depth of her love and her commitment to raising them right. In her later years, that same fierce love blossomed into her role as a doting grandmother and great-grandmother. To which she showered each with an abundance of love. Spoiled them even.
Bobbi was a woman of many passions and talents. She loved the quiet challenge of her daily word find puzzles and the lively clatter of Mahjong tiles, a game she lovingly taught to multiple generations. Her hands, skilled and patient, also taught her grandchildren and great-grandchildren how to crochet, ensuring her home was always filled with odd and ends of cozy, handmade crocheted treasures. Her kitchen was a place of welcome, famous for serving up the world's best iced black sweet tea(secret recipe and all), and she believed in the magic of a well stocked junk drawer, always filled with random goodies for her many little ones that were always running around.
She found her greatest joy in the company of her family, passing on skills, sharing stories, and creating a warm home where everyone felt loved.
She will be profoundly missed by her loving children, Wendy (J.R), Dawn (Dale), Chris (Corrina), JudiAnne (Robert), and Jeremy. Siblings Patty (Jim), Joann, and Charlene. Also very big extended family. Her beautiful legacy lives on through her MANY adoring grandchildren and her doting great-grandchildren. In whom she passed on memories, skills, and pure love.
Barbara was preceded in death by her loving parents Charles & Lucille Zattau, brothers Charles (Skip) & Rollie Zattau, sisters Judy Ralph, Lucille (Sue) Oberdier, & Geri Gedert.
A celebration of Bobbi's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests honoring her memory by doing something she loved like work a word find puzzle, teach someone a new skill, or share a sweet tea with someone you love.
Habegger Funeral Services is honored to serve the Smith family. We encourage you to share a fond memory or condolence by visiting www.habeggerfuneralservices.com
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