Barbara Ann Essex

September 28, 1942 - August 2, 2020

Barbara Ann Essex, 77, of Essexville, our caring, excellent, loving, and devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend was born into eternal life on Sunday, August 2, 2020 with her family by her side. Barb was born in Vacaville, California on September 28, 1942, the daughter of the late George and Anna Marie Sunderman. It was after graduating high school, Barb met the love of her life, Leo Essex. They dated, fell in love, and were united in marriage on January 23, 1961. Together they shared over 42 years together, four children, and countless memories. Sadly, Leo predeceased Barb in death on March 10, 2003. Barb was a dedicated parishioner of St. Jude Thaddeus Parish (St. John the Evangelist Church) and a member of the Bay County Quilt Guild. Throughout life, she enjoyed quilting, feeding the birds, puzzles, photography, and above all being with her family. Barb’s grandchildren were the lights of her life, she absolutely loved being a grandma. She will be missed dearly and lovingly remembered for years to come. Barb leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Lucy (Dan) Gavord, David (Carla) Essex, Kevin Essex, and Todd (Heather) Essex; grandchildren, Amanda Gavord (Jacob Williams), Samantha Gavord, Danny (Victoria) Gavord, Eric Essex, Evan Essex, Andrea Essex, Jamie (josh) Bonds, Noah Essex, Peyton Essex, and Cooper Essex; seven great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, George (Suzie) Paquette, along with many nieces, nephews, and friends. Barb’s family will be present to receive visitors on Thursday, August 6, 2020, from 2:00 PM until the time of her 3:00 PM Funeral Liturgy at St. Jude Thaddeus Parish (St. John the Evangelist Church), 614 Pine St., Essexville. Fr. Dale Orlik will officiate, with private inurnment to be held in Floral Gardens Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the wishes of the family. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at www.skorupskis.com.