Barbara Ruth Washburn, 72, of Fowler died Thursday, April 3, 2008 at St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Lafayette.

Born April 13, 1935, in Shelbyville, she was the daughter of Emerson Jay and Ruth (Nave) Brunner.

Survivors include her sons, Jeff Washburn of Hope, Steve Washburn of Greenwood, Matt Washburn of Pine Village and Doug Washburn of Crested Butte, Colo.; grandchildren, Alex and Jack both of Hope, Jennifer, Heather and Matt, all of Greenwood, Mason of Pine Village and Catherine and Porter, both of Crested Butte.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, George Albert Brunner.

Ms. Washburn had been a sales associate with F.C. Tucker in Lafayette.

She graduated from Shelbyville High School in 1953 and from Hanover College in 1957, with a degree in mathematics.

Ms. Washburn served on Benton Community School Corp. board from 1977 to 1992, with two of those years as president.

She enjoyed and was excellent in her needlepoint work and also enjoyed riding her moped.

In respecting Barb's wishes, there will be no visitation and a private family service will be conducted followed by a gathering with friends at the Cottage on Blue River.

Murphy-Parks Funeral Service, 703 S. Harrison St., is handling the arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Barbara to the donor's choice.