Mrs. Barbara J. Childres of Visalia, former resident of Exeter, passed away Thursday, June 25, 2009, following a long and courageous battle with COPD. Mrs. Childres was born January 17, 1936 in Visalia, California to William and Goldie Kagy. Barbara grew up in Woodlake and graduated from Woodlake High School Class of 1953. She then completed cosmetology school and worked as a Beautician in Exeter for many years. Always being interested in healthy living, she then completed Visalia Business College as a Medical Receptionist and worked for Suta Chiropractic as a Chiropractic Assistant. She recently attended Crossroads Community Church in Visalia and was a longstanding member of the Church of God in Exeter. In her youth, Barbara loved being active. She often played softball with her 10 brothers and sisters and as a varsity tennis team member she loved a good game of competitive tennis. As an adult she enjoyed dancing the Jitter Bug with her friends and having fun with her big family. Her passion has been keeping her 66 Mustang in mint shape. Barbara will be best remembered for her strong faith in God, her never-ending positive attitude and her selfless willingness to help and talk with anyone who needed it. As a leader in the Better Breathers Club for over 20 years and a constant sight at the Live Styles Gym, she was always helping people learn to breath correctly and use the equipment to maximize their abilities and health. Even in her toughest days she kept a smile on her face and a constant word of encouragement on her lips. Barbara is survived by a daughter, Pamela and son-in-law Ron Herrema of Long Beach; 2 brothers, Bill Kagy of Siler City, North Carolina; Jim Kagy of Apple Valley; 3 sisters, Wilma Fenley of Visalia; Evelyn Moore of Woodlake; Helen Martin of Concord, NC; and numerous nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by a brother, Paul Kagy, and 4 sisters, Ruth Wells, Dorothy Waddle, Pauline Staley and Nellie Butterfield. A chapel service will be held Wednesday July 1, 2009, 9:00 a.m. at Salser and Dillard Funeral Chapel, followed by interment at Woodlake District Cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday 4-7 p.m. at Salser and Dillard Funeral Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent to Lung Association, Better Breeders Club.

Published in Visalia Times-Delta and Tulare Adv-Register on June 27, 2009 The above tribute was written by Barbra's daughter Pam Herrema.

Barbra was my Aunt and I want to say that she is missed so much. She was the one that so many looked up to. She was an independent woman and learned early on how to make a way no matter the obstacles. Her home was always spotless and welcoming. I miss you Aunt Barbra. You were so loved by so many.