Barbara A. "Bobbie" Bartley

"You only get as good as you give" was the credo of Bobbie Bartley, longtime P.E. teacher at Bella Vista High School. This soft-hearted woman with the crusty exterior was born Thanks-giving Day 1931 to James and Helen Bartley in New Jersey and died June 21 of complications of diabetes at the Windsor Care Center where she had lived for the past 6 years. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Frances Yahnel, and her longtime partner Ruth Reed. She is survived by sisters Betty Perdoni, Helen Ramirez, Kathy Larimer, and Norene Hudson, plus many nieces and nephews. Graduating from Armijo High School in Fairfield in 1949, Bobbie continued her education at Sacramento State and become a teacher. Bobbie's years at BV included being chairman of the P.E. department, athletic director, and supervisor of the cheerleaders. She was instrumental in the implementation of Title IX, which expanded opportunities for girls' sports. After retirement, she subbed in Special Ed. classes and worked at El Sereno Continuation School. An avid traveler, Bobbie went to England many times and in 2000 fulfilled her dream of visiting Africa. She enjoyed golf and photography and often organized theatre and ocean trips to the Bay Area for friends. Her backyard Tom Jones' parties for her wide circle of friends were legendary. Above all, Bobbie's love of animals guided her life: rescuing dogs, feeding feral cats, and as a member of the Sacramento Turtle Association, collecting an impressive array of turtles. A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 29, 1 to 4 PM, at the Conzelmann Community Center, 2201 Cottage Way in Howe Avenue Park, Sacramento. Donations can be made to the Humane Society or the ASPCA in Bobbie's memory.