Obituary of Barbara Ann Roberts

Barbara (Barb) Ann Roberts, whose authenticity, honesty, and wisdom deeply impacted the lives of family and friends, died at home with family January 3rd. The cause of death was a recurrence of lung cancer, this time metastatic, and COPD. She was 67. Born in 1949, Barb grew up in Washington, Pennsylvania, but lived most of her adult life in Morgantown. Before she retired she worked as a coder at the Eye Institute of WVU for 12 years, a job she loved. Barb is survived by her husband of 45 years, Larry, whom she deeply loved; her son Daniel whose creativity and resiliency inspired her; her beloved daughter Jodie whose artistic eye she shared; her son-in-law Joe whom she adored; her son Larue whose passion for life invigorated (and sometimes scared) her; her daughter-in-law Bobbie whom she admired; her granddaughter Morgan who absolutely delighted her; and her cherished siblings Peggy Lou Batson, Mona Tokarcik, and Butch Lee; and eleven nieces and nephews. Though not formally educated, Barb had an uncanny understanding of human behavior and possibility which became a beacon of light, even in the darkest of times, for so many people. Her home became the gathering place for people who were seeking community and fellowship. Her generosity of spirit was evident even in her sickest times. During her last stay in the hospital, her doctor, surrounded by interns, told her 'You have taught us so much.' In keeping with her wishes, cremation services have been entrusted to Hastings Funeral Home, Omega Crematory. Friends and family will be received at Hastings Funeral Home, 153 Spruce St., Morgantown, on Saturday, January 21st from 3 PM until the time of the memorial service at 5 PM. In keeping with Barb's generous spirit; her family requests in lieu of flowers that friends and well-wishers make a donation to any charitable cancer foundation or organization of their choosing. Online condolences may be made at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com.