Barbara Carper Bane, 73, peacefully passed away on February 25, 2025. A lifelong resident of the Peninsula, Barbara graduated from Newport News High School in 1970. She began her career as a commercial real estate agent, later becoming a Real Estate Manager for Newport News Redevelopment and Housing Authority. Through her work, Barbara played a role in revitalizing areas of Newport News and helping many families become first-time homeowners. In addition to her professional achievements, Barbara took on the important role of caregiver, providing end-of-life care for her grandmother, mother-in-law, and father. After 22 years with the Housing Authority, she retired in 2011, and went on to offer companion care to others until she once again became the devoted end of life caretaker of George, the love of her life and beloved husband of 50 years, until his passing in 2023.

Barbara had a passion for spending time with her family and creating cherished memories with loved ones. Known as the cornerstone of her family, Barbara's home was at the center for backyard cookouts, summers in the pool, visits from out of town family, eating smores around the fire pit or celebrating holiday traditions, especially Christmas Day brunch.   She enjoyed fishing, working in her flowerbeds, boat rides with her brother, beach days with her grandchildren, and attending their school and sporting events.  Barbara also enjoyed finding good deals at yard sales and rarely found a person she couldn't persuade to take less for an item, even if it was only $.50 cents.

Barbara's generous soul was always willing to lend a hand—whether it was watching her grandchildren, helping neighbors, caring for others or driving friends to appointments. She was stubborn to a fault and would rarely allow anyone to return a favor.

Barbara is preceded in death by her husband, George I. Bane; parents, Jack and Ingrid Carper; sister, Anne Girard; and brother, Scott Carper. She is survived by her children, G. Matthew Bane (Heidi) and Ashley W. Swain (Robert); her grandchildren, Tyler M. Bane (Chandlyr), Rilee L. Bane, McKenna L. Swain, and Emerson A. Swain; great-grandchildren, Bodhi and Blakely Bane; her brother, Jack D. Carper II (Dawn); sister-in-law, Carolyn Bane; brother-in-law, Terry Girard; cousin, Helga Johnson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to offer their heartfelt thanks to Tina Hart and Donna White for the compassionate care they provided Barbara and the peace of mind they gave to her children by looking after her when George passed and as her health declined. Lastly, they wish to express their deepest gratitude to Barbara's partner in crime, co-conspirator, and best friend of 54 years, Gale Burcher. The daily calls, planned outings, errands, and emotional support Gale offered brought light and joy to Barbara's life after George passed. Throughout their friendship, Gale's playful antics always brought laughter, but above all, her unwavering, loyalty, and love was a priceless gift that Barbara cherished.

A celebration of Barbara's life will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Huntington Mennonite Church, 785 Harpersville Rd., Newport News, with fellowship and visitation to follow. To watch the celebration online, please click WATCH VIDEO at the time of the service, Arrangements are being handled by Berceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions in Hampton, 757-825-8070.

Barbara and her husband have cherished the companionship of their rescued four-legged friends over the years. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Animal Aid Society of Hampton by clicking HERE or to any pet rescue organization of your choice.