Barbara Ann Bailey

January 19, 1934 - November 19, 2017

Barbara was a beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend to many. Born in Madison, New Jersey, she relocated to Lafayette, California in 1976 and married John Abner(Jack) Bailey shortly thereafter. She graduated from The Professional School of Business in Morristown, NJ after which she began her career in real estate. She was an exemplary realtor for 47 years in the Diablo Valley. Barbara excelled in her profession and enjoyed meeting wonderful clients, many of whom became friends. Golf, swimming, and tennis were her favorite ways to stay fit. Barbara was an enthusiastic entertainer and enjoyed sharing her cooking talents at her late night dinner parties. She was a thoughtful baker of feel good treats for those that were ill or infirm. Her generous and gregarious spirit was a welcome presence at all gatherings. she was quite fond of playing bridge and bunco with her friends. When given the opportunity, travel to beaches and the ocean were her priority where she was able to teach her children to swim, beach comb, and enjoy the powerful seas. Gardening was a passion that showed through her many garden creations. Her flower and vegetable beds showed pride of accomplishment. Volunteering and giving back to others came easily to Barbara. Her hours with the Berkeley Heights Women's Club, the PTA, a six-year term as a Cub Scout leader all led to a fifteen-year membership with the Rotary International. At San Ramon Valley Rotary Barbara was in charge of guest speaker presentations. She was additionally involved with many of the Rotary Club volunteer opportunities. Her love of animals was evident by the love returned to her with wags, happiness, and kisses from her many poodles and other dogs she had adored so much. It had been inferred many times that if one could experience reincarnation, it would be fabulous to return as one of Barbara's beloved pets. She is pre-deceased by her husband, Jack, and sister Betty Boyer. Her abundant and unconditional love, joy for life, optimism, and resilience and light will be missed by many. She is survived by her daughter Susan Schmidt (Anders), and sons Richard Nace and David Nace, and sister Marlene and many nieces and nephews.