Barbara Anne Shea, 91, of Brookings, OR died peacefully July 9, 2023, in her home. She was born May
29, 1932, in Auburn, CA to Byron and Genevieve Brownell. Barbara grew up in the San Francisco Bay
area, and married Martin Shea on June 6, 1952, in Oakland, CA.
Survivors include her two children, Michael Shea and Kathryn (Shea) Kruse; grandchildren: Dylan Kruse
(wife Rachel) and Erin Kruse, and five great-grandchildren: Noah, Jaxon, Logan, Emerson and Shealynn.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Martin Shea, and a sister, Nancy (Brownell)
Cuccia.
Barbara enjoyed a long fun-filled life, living in the Bay Area, Tulelake, and for the past 42 years, in
Brookings, OR, where she pursued her passions of gardening, quilting, scrapbooking and cooking. She
was especially well-known for her pies and desserts as well as many handmade gifts. She loved spending
time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren, whether it was visits to the Bay Area to see them
or having them come to stay in Brookings. So many special family memories were made around the
Thanksgiving table and summers at the beach and river. She loved to play games with the kids and
enjoyed puzzles and playing Solitaire for herself.
Barbara worked in retail for many years as manager to high end stores, and also spent a good portion of
her life working in education. While living in Tulelake, she worked as a high school Physical Education
teacher, and later was part of the Kindergarten tea at Kalmiopsis Elementary School in Brookings, where
she spent many fulfilling years working with young children.
Barbara was a very fun social person who enjoyed people and life. She had an infectious laugh and was
always ready with a smile for anyone she met. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
A private family memorial will be held at a later date. Redwood Memorial Chapel assisted the family.
