Barbara Jo Smurr

Barbara Jo Smurr, a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2023, in South Bend, Indiana, at the age of 83. Born on March 19, 1940, in South Bend, Indiana, she was the daughter of the late Stephen and Josephine (Szeczyk) Rebics.

Barbara Jo graduated from Washington High School and went on to work as a transportation specialist. She later became a dedicated homemaker, always ensuring her family's needs were met. Throughout her life, she was a member of the Elkhart Moose, contributing her time and talents to the organization.

On July 23, 1960, Barbara Jo was united in marriage to her loving husband, Harold Smurr, who survives her. Together, they created a beautiful family and a lifetime of cherished memories. She is also survived by her daughters, Tammy (Tim) Rosbrugh of South Bend, Susanne (Jeff) Dienes of Portage, IN, and Marcy Jo Smurr of Mishawaka; four grandchildren, Christine Jo, Jessica, Stephanie, and Sarah; and six great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, Barbara Jo was preceded in death by her sister, Joanne Barkley.

Barbara Jo was known for her kind and understanding nature, always offering a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on. She was a wonderful cook and took great pride in her homemaking skills. Barbara Jo was a good granny to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, her infectious laughter and joy bringing happiness to all who knew her.

A lover of games and puzzles, Barbara Jo enjoyed spending her free time playing euchre and pinochle with friends and family. She also had a passion for bingo, often attending local events and sharing her love for the game with others. She belonged to both a bunco and pinochle club.

Family and friends are invited to join Barbara Jo's family for a Celebration of Life, including a traditional Polish-style dinner, at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 28, 2023, at Cambridge Square Community Center, 239 W. Catalpa, Mishawaka, IN. This gathering will provide an opportunity for loved ones to share memories, laughter, and tears as they honor Barbara Jo's life and legacy.

Barbara Jo will be remembered as a loving, strong, and understanding woman who brought joy and happiness to everyone she encountered. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her, and she will be greatly missed.

Memorial contributions in Barbara’s honor can be made to Williams Syndrome Association, 560 Kirts Boulevard, Ste. 116, Troy, MI 48084, or The American Cancer Society, 5635 W 96th St. Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46278 or The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, National Headquarters, ATTN: Financial Operations, 733 Third Avenue, Ste. 510, New York, NY 10017.

Online condolences may be left for the Smurr family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.