Stella F. Barb

Stella Frances Beedle Barb, 85, passed away August 2, 2025. She was born June 8, 1940 in Bird Haven, VA. She was the last surviving child of the late Nathaniel Beedle and Mary Rosan Barb Beedle.

She was a lifetime member and deacon of the Stoney Creek Church of the Brethren. Her church and church family were very dear to her. She enjoyed her youth group and enjoyed sharing their singing with other churches.

Mrs. Barb worked many years at the Stop-N-Look Store, then the Community Store, both in Basye, and ended her retail career at Woodstock Walmart, where she retired at 73 years of age. She was married to David W. Barb, who preceded her in death on August 10, 2020. They were married July 19, 1958, and enjoyed 62 years together.

She is survived by a daughter, Penny Kay Downey and husband Barry Downey of Basye and one grandson, David Downey of Bridgewater.

Her parents and seven brothers and sisters all predeceased her. Brothers: Arthur Beedle, Norman Beedle, Martin Beedle, and Stanley Beedle. Sisters: Hannah Helsley, Ruby Watson, and Barbara Mellette. She is survived by many nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service will be held Sunday, October 5 at 2 p.m. at Stoney Creek Church of the Brethren in Basye. The Rev. Louie Shafer will be officiating. Burial will be private.

Memorial contributions can be sent to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Mrs. Barb donated her body to science. Cremation was performed at the Cremation Center of Maryland.