Barbara Jean Hart

Surrounded and protected by the family who loved her so deeply, Barbara Jean Hart peacefully left this life on September 5, 2026, as we watched her become an angel in the presence of Jesus Christ. Born on July 15, 1954, Barbara was the daughter of Dorothy Jean and Carl Roy Wellman. She was one of six children, alongside her siblings William S. Wellman; the late Carl R. “Rick” Wellman; the late James M. Wellman, husband of Katherine; Joan C. Osborne, whose husband, Glenn, preceded her in death; and Patricia L. Flynn and her husband, Ron. Barbara shared a special bond with her brothers and sisters and loved them deeply. She was equally loved and cherished by them, and their unwavering love and loyalty remained a constant throughout her life. During her time of greatest need, they stood faithfully by her side, surrounding her with the same love and support she had given so freely throughout her life. She was also a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews. Barbara was a 1973 graduate of Overlea High School and a member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church. At the center of Barbara’s life was her family. For more than 50 years, she and her beloved husband, Dale R. Hart, shared a love that grew with them through the many seasons of their lives together. From that love came the family that meant everything to her. Above all, Barbara treasured being a mother and Grandma. She was a devoted and deeply loving mother to Shannon Hart and her husband, Patrick Courtney, and Candice Hart and her husband, Frank Messick. Being their mom was not simply a role in Barbara’s life—it was at the heart of who she was. She devoted herself to her children, celebrated their happiness, worried when they hurt, and was always there whenever they needed her. Becoming Grandma brought Barbara immeasurable joy. She was the immensely proud and loving Grandma of Hailey and Arianna Courtney, and Frank Jr., Mariah, Aleiah, and Braden Messick, along with her cherished grand-dog, Mako. Her grandchildren were a tremendous source of pride and happiness, and there was nothing she loved more than being a part of their lives. When a child was sick, Grandma was there. When someone needed her, Grandma was there. Her children and grandchildren always knew they had someone in their corner who loved them completely. Barbara was also blessed to reconnect later in life with her daughter, Suzanne Condon. Over nearly two decades, they built a beautiful and loving relationship, remaining close and in constant contact. This past summer brought an especially meaningful gift when Suzanne was able to come see Barbara in person. After so many years, mother and daughter were finally able to embrace—a precious reunion that meant more to Barbara than words could express. Barbara treasured receiving pictures and keeping up with Suzanne and her family, including her lifelong partner, Trent Gaines; their son, Elijah Condon-Gaines and his fiancée, Sydney Duran; and Barbara’s great-granddaughter, Sodayi. As a stay-at-home mom, Barbara made Shannon and Candice’s childhood magical with her imagination and creativity, endless energy and enthusiasm, and childlike sense of wonder. Days in the backyard were filled with swimming, pretend games, homemade popsicles, coloring, crafts, and even washing doll clothes in a little soap-filled pool she would set up for them. She freely handed over her best shoes, dresses, and makeup for games of dress-up and happily joined her children and their friends on walks to the playground or to Edwards for a special treat. Summer also meant trips to the library, coming home with armfuls of books that Barbara and her girls would spend hours reading together. She was the mom that everyone enjoyed being around, and her home was a place where loved ones were always welcome. Barbara especially loved the changing seasons and the traditions that came with them. Christmas in particular was magical because Barbara made it that way, filling the season with excitement, traditions, and the kind of memories her children would carry into adulthood. She made snow days magical, took the kids to orchards, encouraged bike rides, roller skating and jumping into piles of leaves, and was always ready for an impromptu adventure. But summer held an especially treasured place in her heart. She loved the sunshine and the beach, and the many family vacations spent there became some of their most precious memories. One of Barbara’s greatest gifts was that the magic she created for Shannon and Candice didn’t end with their childhood—their own children were blessed to grow up experiencing many of the same joys, traditions, and adventures their moms had treasured as little girls. Barbara’s family was her everything. She loved and cared for them wholeheartedly, and her presence brought a sense of comfort and security that they will carry with them always. Barbara was also blessed with a beautiful and treasured friendship with her best friend, Hyeongah Theresa Choi, and her husband, Wonpyo Benedict Hong. Their friendship held a very special place in Barbara’s life. Barbara also held a special place in her heart for their son, Christopher, and cherished the years she spent helping to care for him as his nanny and watching him grow. During the final weeks of Barbara’s life, Hyeongah and Wonpyo surrounded Barbara and her family with extraordinary love, kindness, and support. Their devotion and presence meant more than words can express. They were truly angels on earth during a time when Barbara and her family needed them most. Barbara will be remembered for her loving heart, her devotion to her family, and the countless ways she made life better simply by being there. She was deeply loved and will be missed beyond words. The love she gave, the family she built, and the beautiful memories she created will remain with them forever. A Celebration of Life honoring Barbara will be held at a later date, allowing her family the time and space to grieve, heal, and come together when they are ready to celebrate the beautiful life she lived.

Barbara Jean Hart

July 15, 1954 - September 5, 2026