Babette "Barb" Reynolds' Obituary
Babette "Barb" Reynolds passed away peacefully on April 8th, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, compassion, and a life well-lived. She was born in Wauseon, OH on December 19,1953.
Barb was a woman of many talents and interests. She completed her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification in Mount Angel, Oregon in 1989 and later graduated from Ohio Business College in 2009—showcasing her drive for lifelong learning and service to others.
Throughout her life, Barb wore many occupational hats, but two roles stood out among the rest: truck driving and caregiving. As a truck driver, she proudly traveled through all 50 states, operating singles, doubles, and triples with skill and grit. As a caregiver, she brought warmth, kindness, and comfort to many—a testament to her generous heart.
Faith was an important part of Barb’s life. She was a member of Beacon Baptist Church in Lorain, Ohio, and also worshiped at First Baptist Church of Hudson, Michigan.
Barb had a deep love for the outdoors—she found joy in fishing, camping, and picnicking. She was a proud lifelong member of the Morenci American Legion. Her hands were rarely idle, always creating something beautiful through crocheting, sewing, and quilting. Whether it was a handmade blanket or a heartfelt meal, Barb gave of herself in everything she did.
A true family woman, Barb cherished time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She found adventure in travel and enjoyed life’s simple pleasures—crime shows, game shows, the Hallmark Channel, and shooting pool. Known for her strong will and her complete inability to hide her feelings, Barb’s candid nature made her both endearing and unforgettable.
She had a special love for animals and a special gift for making people feel like family.
Barb is now reunited with her beloved husband, Larry Reynolds, who passed on February 15, 2011. She was also preceded in death by her brother Robert Stewart Jr., her mother Irene Evers (Shaffer), her father Robert Stewart Sr., her stepfather Lowell “Mike” Stahl, and her grandson Bradley Martin.
She is survived by her children: Tonya Bernath (David) of Hudson, MI, Craig Jones (Krystal) of Clayton, MI, Tamara Igoe (Robert), Lynna Donofrio, Tara Reynolds—all of Lorain, and Nathaniel Reynolds of Cleveland. Barb was the proud grandmother of 23 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Margaret Bates of Kentucky.
Barb’s life was full of love, laughter, hard work, and adventure. Her impact will be felt for generations to come. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
The family will receive friends on Monday, April 21, 2025 from 11:00 am until the time of her funeral service at 1:00 pm at Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center, 1110 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst. Her interment will follow her funeral service at Calvary Cemetery, Lorain. To send an online condolence, please visit www.dovinreberjones.com.
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