Barbara Jean Smith

Barbara Jean Smith, of Olympia, Washington, passed away on October 3, 2016 after a short but courageous fight with breast cancer. She was 71. Barbara was born on September 23, 1945 to M. Jean and Frederick Obenchain in Olympia. She is survived by her sisters, Sharon Schuler and Leora Hebert; her children, Lori Holbrook and Lanny Waldrop; and her much-loved grandchildren, Shelby, Aaron, Tanner, Stone, Austin, and Brady. Anyone who knew her, knew that Barbara was an active person who enjoyed going to the ocean and attending community events. She retired from her job with the State of Washington on May 31, 2016, and had a diverse employment history. It seemed that she could learn or do whatever she decided was right for her. Besides her family, Barbara’s friends, bible study group, and church community meant a lot to her. She was a generous person, and if you were in need, would do all she could to lend a hand. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Wayne Obenchain; and her daughter, Lynn A. Black. In her honor, please make donations to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (https://www.bcrfcure.org/), or other charity of your choice, in Barbara’s name. Please leave memories of Barbara or condolences for her family in the Guestbook below.