Barbara Ethelynne Jacobson Bernard, age 77, died Wednesday, April 11, 2012 at her home in Water Valley, MS. She was born September 23, 1934 in Modesto, CA to the late John and Bothilda Person Jacobson. In 1955 she married Ralph Bernard, a mechanical engineer. Barbara worked for Dr. Joseph Mallory at Village Optometric in the desert community of Ridgecrest, CA, for over 20 years before retiring. She loved working with the public and with Joseph Mallory and Sheila Mann. Barbara was an avid gardener, and her back yard was a lovely oasis of shade and greenery in the Mojave Desert. Barbara and Ralph moved to Water Valley in April of last year to be near their daughter and son-in-law.
Barbara was a gentle woman who was kind to all. She was loved by those who knew her. She was a great friend to animals and was always a “soft touch” to those looking for a home for a stray dog.
Barbara is survived by her husband of 57 years, Ralph Bernard; her two sons and daughters-in-law, Randy Bernard and Renee Diaz of Marion, IA; and John and Judy Bernard of Tehachapi, CA; one daughter and son-in-law, Ramona Bernard and Cliff Lawson of Water Valley, MS; two grandsons, David and Joey Bernard of Tehachapi, CA; and one brother John (Jake) Jacobson of Stigler, OK.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her eldest son, David Ralph Bernard, and her brother, James Carl Jacobson.
A private memorial service for Barbara will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be made in her name to the Oxford-Lafayette Humane Society, 413 Mcelroy Drive, Oxford, MS 38655.