Virginia Beach – Barbara Thomas (née Steadman) passed away July 10, 2024.  She was born February 28, 1937 and grew up in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, England. She graduated from the Grange School for Girls and studied at Carlett Park College.

Barbara wasn’t afraid to strike off the beaten path. A job in England assisting a US Air Force colonel turned into a position at McGuire Air Force Base. She fearlessly immigrated to the States in 1963. Barbara met John, a pilot stationed at the base, at a party; she fell in love when he requested a kiss. They married in 1964, had two children, and settled in Sacramento, CA. Eventually, she persuaded him to follow their adult daughters to the East Coast.

Among other roles, Barbara worked as a stewardess for PanAm, an advocate for AIDS patients, and a costume mistress for a ballet company. Barbara thrived on competitive activities like cards, golf, and mischief. She was a blast at a bowling alley or arcade; Barbara won most games. A devout Catholic, Barbara found fulfillment in her faith and community as well. She taught catechism at St. Mel Catholic Church in Fair Oaks and celebrated her 50th wedding anniversary at Star of the Sea in Virginia Beach. Barbara doted on her grandchildren and gave shelter and counsel to friends. She fed the squirrels twice a day, watched for cardinals in her backyard, and almost always had a pet. She was an adept propagator of jade plants and a multi-talented crafter. And she loved to travel; Barbara hiked the stairs at Chichén Itzá, kissed the Blarney Stone, and partied on innumerable cruises. She was fierce, forward-thinking, and fun-loving.

Predeceased by her husband John Thomas, parents Winifred and Richard Campbell Steadman, and many cats and dogs. Survived by her sister Dianne Knox of Great Sutton, U.K., daughters Tracey Jacobson (David) of Washington, D.C. and Teri Dermody of Norfolk, grandchildren Meagan (Kellan) and Patrick Dermody (Sarah), and one cat, Princess. A memorial service is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, July 27 at Star of the Sea Catholic Church.