Barbara Ann Babow

Barbara Ann Babow (nee Weiner) was born in May 1938 in San Antonio, Texas, where she was raised. After graduating Thomas Jefferson High School, she enrolled in University of Texas at Austin. However, her life changed when her parents urged her to go on a blind date with a nice Jewish soldier from California stationed briefly at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio. Their words, “It’s just one date; you don’t have to marry the guy” proved to be so very wrong. She went on that date. A few months later, while Larry Babow was stationed in Germany, Barbara transferred to U.C. Berkeley, close to Larry’s family. After his return from Germany, they got engaged. They were married in the fall of 1958, shortly before Barbara’s graduation, a marriage that thrived for more than 63 years, until her passing on April 19, 2022 at her home in Sonoma.

Barbara was a giant ball of energy packed into a

small body. During her life in Marin County, Barbara both raised two children Brent and Barri - and was a top salesperson for Transworld Systems, winning numerous awards over decades. She had a wide network of friends and colleagues, but would also frequently strike up conversations with complete strangers, who soon would be pulled into her orbit. She and Larry travelled the world, were subscribers to several Bay Area theatre groups and symphonies, and participated in many local lecture and educational programs. She was an active member of the Jewish community and the Marin community, and gave time to several charities and organizations. Typically, she and Larry were busy five or six nights a week, between events and social engagements.

Barbara loved bright clothes, eclectic fashion and large jewelry. She and Larry were known for their lively themed parties. Barbara also stayed in constant contact with her family and friends in Texas and around the country.

Barbara passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by family. She is survived by husband Larry; her two children and their spouses: Brent Babow and Kristin Prentice and Barri Babow and Mike Kirkland; her two granddaughters Shira and Maya Babow; her brother and sister-in-law Sig and Jo Weiner of Virginia; her niece and nephew and their families; and her many cousins and relatives, most still in Texas.

Barbara was a true people person - always asking questions, engaging in conversations, and looking for ways to help others. She will be missed by the many people whose lives she touched.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Temple Rodef Sholom in San Rafael on April 29, 2022 at 10:30 a.m.