Barbara Franklin

1931 – 2016

Barbara Franklin, age 85, died in Dockton, October 28, during a recent illness. Born October 9, 1931, in South Bend, Indiana, to John and Margot Bagley, Barbara Ann Bagley grew up in South Hadley, Massachusetts, with four siblings. She married Henry Bridges with whom she had four children. Barbara married her devoted husband of 49 years, Richard (Dick) Franklin, in 1967.

Barbara moved to California in the 1950s, where she raised her children and was an active hospital volunteer and PTA leader. She enthusiastically supported her kids’ educational, recreational and professional pursuits, exposing them to boating, skiing, water sports, and unusual pets, and creating a welcoming home for young people. Her years raising children and grandchildren were her happiest.

Migrating with Dick to Vashon in 1978, Barbara was active in the Garden Club, Harvest Festival, the Vashon Country Club, Friends of the Library, and the Episcopal Church. She delighted in treasure hunting at Granny’s Attic, watching “Jeopardy,” devouring magazines of all kinds, and in the many, many books she read. Curiosity, wit and humor underpinned a keen and engaging intellect and a deep interest in politics, art, gardening and history. She thoughtfully cooked and planned for all holidays and loved hosting 4th of July gatherings. Her potato salad is epic, her gifts for others carefully chosen. Barbara penned newsy letters, called lifelong friends in New England and California regularly, and cherished her children, siblings and several beloved nieces. Barbara’s greatest joy the past 23 years were her two grandsons with whom she played Bingo monthly, enthusiastically introduced to the Seattle Symphony, traveled, and loved beyond measure.

Barbara is survived by her husband, Dick; children Barbara Gylland (Fred) of Vashon, Peter Bridges (Laura Duncan) of Grass Valley, CA, and Chris Bridges (Ron Rodriguez) of Los Angeles, CA; grandsons Brian and Bradley; siblings Margot Reynolds Maclachlan, John Bagley, Bruce Bagley and Peter Bagley; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews; two step-daughters and several cherished friends. Son Roger predeceased her. The family is deeply grateful to the many neighbors, care-givers, family members and companions who loved and supported Barbara, and delighted in her humor and companionship.

A remembrance service will be held in the new year with the date to be announced.