Barbara Jean Farnsworth, née Greaving, 80, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, October 19, 2026. Beloved wife of Ralph Roy Farnsworth, Jr. who preceded her in death; Dear Mother of Elaine (Eric) Farnsworth Thoren, Ralph Roy (Rebecca) Farnsworth III, and John David (Sabrina) Farnsworth; Devoted and Beloved Grandmother of Quinn, Gabriela (Cooper), Alexander, Darren, Connor, Emma and Owen; Cherished Sister of Dennis (Nancy) Greaving, Laura (the late Gary) Friedmeyer, Edwin (Elaine) Greaving, and Richard Greaving. Dear Aunt, sister-in-law, cousin, and friend. She was preceded in death by her parents Edwin and Kathleen Greaving.
Barbara lived in the St. Louis area for most of her life, graduating from Rosati-Kain Academy and Maryville University. She married Ralph, raised a family together, and was a tireless parent, volunteer, and advocate for her children and others. She enjoyed a career in elementary school programming, working for the YMCA and the Rockwood School District. She loved and lived for her family, especially her grandchildren. (Not to mention, St. Louis Cardinals baseball!) She persevered through chronic health issues, remaining optimistic, independent, generous, and caring. We will carry her resilient spirit forward. She will live on in our hearts.
Services: Visitation at KUTIS SOUTH COUNTY CHAPEL (5255 Lemay Ferry Rd.) on Monday, November 2, from 4-8 p.m. Funeral Service at Kutis Tuesday, November 3, at 10 a.m. Interment Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
Funeral Service Live Stream
In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to a cause Barb would champion.
Donate to End Polio- Rotary International:
Consider making a memorial contribution in memory of Barbara
https://my.rotary.org/en/polioplus-fund
Donate to Combating Cancer- American Cancer Society
Consider honoring Barbara as cancer survivor with a donation
https://share.google/o7NKvCYCjGRbjsAwO
Healthy Moms Strong Babies- March of Dimes
Consider honoring Barbara who was a volunteer with a donation.
I will miss you, Aunt Barb. Rest in Peace
I’m so sorry for the loss of your beloved mother. May you find strength and comfort in the love and beautiful memories you shared with her. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. May her soul rest in eternal peace. 🙏
My deepest condolences to Barb’s family and friends. I worked with Barb (She was my supervisor) at Rockwood School District for several years. She was the best boss, and friend, that anyone could have. Barb was supportive, knowledgeable, perceptive and compassionate. And we often chatted about our families, sharing photos, and funny anecdotes. She akways spoke of her children and grandchildren with great pride and love. Rest in peace, Barb.
My deepest condolences to you, Elaine. It’s difficult thing to lose your mom. Sending a big hug for you. And to your children, Quinn, Gabriela, and Alexander. I’m so sorry for your loss.
“May there be peace on her spirit and eternal light on her soul.” (3x)
Even though we did not see each other as much as we became NOT younger, I always considered Barb to be a Special cousin. Thanks for the inspiration and fun you always provided.
My condolences to Barbara’s children and grandchildren and siblings and their extended families. May Barbara be in Heaven already. She deserves it.
My condolences to all of Barbara’s
Family. I know she will be missed dearly.
What a wonderful happy giving woman she was. I know she is in Heaven with Our Lord
and we all look forward to seeing her in Heaven again. Barbara was a long term
special patient of mine. It was a pleasure
assisting her in her care because she was full of smiles and so thoughtful of others. I enjoyed hearing about her life stories which were very interesting.
Barbara you will be missed so very much.
Your Home Health Nurse
Sue
My condolences to all of Barbara’s
Family. I know she will be missed dearly.
What a wonderful happy giving woman she was. I know she is in Heaven with Our Lord
and we all look forward to seeing her in Heaven again. Barbara was a long term
special patient of mine. It was a pleasure
assisting her in her care because she was full of smiles and so thoughtful of others. I enjoyed hearing about her life stories which were very interesting.
Barbara you will be missed so very much.
Your Home Health Nurse
Sue