November 11, 1951 ~ April 3, 2021
Barbara was born in Rumford, Maine on November 11, 1951. She was the third child of Robert and Adelia Houghton (predeceased).
She married Doug Kelly (predeceased) in Yosemite, California. They were blessed with two children, Katie Kelly (Derek) Moore of Santa Barbara, and Andrew Kelly of Modesto, and she was Grammy to grandsons Jackson and Jameson Moore. Survived by siblings, Bobby Houghton, Deano Houghton, Debbie Mccullers Houghton and Joe Houghton (predeceased) and eight nieces and nephews.
Her devoted partner, Jim Johnson, was a delightful surprise in her later years. They traveled to Cuba, Costa Rica and Spain. In Cuba she delighted in the music of the culture. One of her fondest memories was dancing at the Buena Vista Social Club. Barbara was such an enthusiastic supporter of Jim’s theatre work at the Gallo Center that he called her his Theatre Angel.
Barbara was known for her love of gardening, cooking mastery, holiday decorating, wisdom and a nurturing heart. She loved traveling the world and marveled at the simplest of things. She had an eagerness to learn and reveled in the accomplishments of her cherished children, grandchildren, family and friends.
This beautiful soul was at her best when she was helping single mothers, sharing motherly advice to those she loved and lifting up those in need. Nearly every morning she greeted the day with, “I love this life!” She liked sharing photos of her breakfast meals, in the Italian garden she created, to encourage healthy eating. She could wrap a gift better than any professional and took the most delight when giving.
She battled cancer twice in her beautiful life and won both times, but suddenly passed away during a third onset of the disease. There was still so much to learn from this joyful human being and even though she will be profoundly missed by so many the love and sacrifice she gave will live on.
God help those left behind in their grief, and in her child-like wonder may she revel in the arms of her creator.
Condolence(1)-
Walter Kimes says
May 4, 2021 at 11:35 pmMy son Matthew and I are so shocked to hear of Barbara’s passing. Even though we met in what would have to be described as a business relationship, there is no way one could possibly meet Barbara and her children without feeling close to them. Barbara was such a caring person. Over the years since we met, we talked on the phone. I always came away feeling blessed to have known Barbara. (Katie and Andrew as well)
Bless you Barbara Dawn Kelly.