Barbara Anne Lytle-Smith passed away on September 12, 2021 in Newport News, VA. She was born in Indianapolis, ID on April 24, 1933 to Marguerite and Pete Lytle. Barbara and her sister, Della Kemp, grew up in Indianapolis, IN. Barbara was married to Victor Campbell in 1952. Karyn Marchelle and V.C. Campbell, Jr. were born during this marriage. Barbara moved to California in 1959 where she began her career with Oakland Army Base as a data clerk then to Alameda Naval Air Station where she was promoted to computer operator then to a programmer and finally, systems analyst for the commanding officer.
Barbara met Walter Smith in 1985 and they were married on February 14, 1986. After 40 years, Barbara retired and opened Panache Designer Fashion located in Jack London Square in Oakland, California; and was successful and was featured in the national magazine, Essex.
In 1998, Walter was transferred to Newport News. While living in Newport News, Barbara worked with FEMA which she thoroughly enjoyed. Walter had some serious back surgeries and Barbara was no longer available to work for FEMA. She began realtor training, received her realtors license and worked with Mid Atlantic Realty. Barbara earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Kaplan University, an MBA and a Juris Doctorate from Howard Taft Law School. Barbara was motivated and determined to get her PHD. She enrolled in the program but became ill and was unable to complete that last goal.
Barbara and Walter had a beautiful life together. They enjoyed 35 years of marriage. They were a “couple on the move”.
Barbara is predeceased by her sons, V.C. Campbell, Jr. and Phillip; sister, Della Kemp; and parents, Marguerite and Pete Lytle. Barbara is survived by her loving husband, Walter Smith, Sr.; daughters, Karyn, Ivy, and Carmen; sons, Alvin and Walter, Jr.; grandchildren, Jamese Walker, Marquiesha, Kalyph, Ysmina, Kasina, Marcus, Chancey, B.J., Danielle, Arin, Phillip Kennis, and Cheryle; great grandchild, Jasiah; nieces, Lynn Hightower and Cantrell Reid; and a multitude of great grandchildren, cousins, and friends.
A memorial service will be held on September 24, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at Barbara and Walter’s home located at 626 Brandywine Drive Newport News, VA.
Arrangements in care of Cremation Society of Virginia – Newport News Office.
