On March 24, 2020, Barbara Newkirk, beloved wife, mother of four, and “Nana” to eight grandchildren, passed away at age 62 with her family by her side, and joined The Lord after a brief but intense battle with cancer.

Barbara was born the youngest of five children on January 21, 1958, in Montebello, California, to Lee and Donna Brown. She married Brian Newkirk on July 15, 1977 and together they raised and educated their two sons, Zack and Seth, and two daughters, Caitlin and Molly, in Monrovia and McKinleyville.

Barbara had a passion for ballet and rhythmic gymnastics, which she taught and coached for almost 20 years. She was very musical, and enjoyed singing in church and playing the cello and mandolin. She was an avid reader and enjoyed reading to her children and grandchildren. And despite her shyness, was known for her quick, dry wit. She loved to take scenic hikes on Trinidad Head and walks on Trinidad beach, and greatly enjoyed traveling to other picturesque locales across the Pacific Northwest with her husband. Most importantly, Barbara was a woman of deep and reverent Christian faith, and she shared the Gospel of Jesus with many people. Her testimony at the end of her life was one of reconciliation, grace, humility, and love.

Barbara was preceded in death by her father, Lee, her mother, Donna, and granddaughter, Penelope. She is survived by her husband, Brian; her four children Zack, Seth, Caitlin, and Molly; her seven grandchildren Ethan, Isaiah, Auden, Adeline, Joy, Micah, and Vivian; and her siblings Cherie, Karen, James, and Patrice and their families. She was laid to rest at the Trinidad Cemetery on March 27, 2020, in Trinidad, California.

Her family would like to thank all of the following for their kindness, compassion, and tender care that was shown towards Barbara: the staff at Mad River Community Hospital, St. Joseph Hospital, Dr. Russel Pardoe Radiation Oncology Center, Peals Family Chemotherapy Center, and Hospice of Humboldt; Dr. Join Luh, Dr. Jennifer Choate, and Dr. Luther Cobb. We would also like to thank Ayres Family Cremation for their professionalism, respect, and kindness. And a special thanks to nurse Molly and caregiver Sheila from Hospice of Humboldt. Memorial service information will be forthcoming.