13th July 1931–10th November 2024
Barbara was born 13th July 1931, a much-wanted child of Gladys and Job Cooper.
She always spoke of a happy childhood, especially her times with her uncle to whom she attributed her love of the stars. Barbara’s early education was cut short to look after Gladys. Despite that she studied at every opportunity and was a great believer in lifelong education.
Barbara was proud of her many and interesting jobs some of which she applied for only using her initials to hide the fact she was a woman. When offered an interview she convinced them to employ her, paving the way for more opportunities for women.
At one point Barbara worked at Wolverhampton Polytechnic and worked for Kenneth Russell who came from Newport. Their mutual love of cycling was a big factor in their relationship and together they toured much of the countryside.
They married in July 1952, 6 days after her 21st birthday at Holy Trinity Church, Bushbury.
A few years later Carol was born followed by Jon, and Barbara spent those years at home with the children until they were old enough to leave with Grandma. The family moved to Richmond Road by Bantock Park but subsequently moved to Penn.
Barbara had many interests, particularly science based and joined societies to further her knowledge. She was a part of Wolverhampton Astronomical society for many years becoming president at one point, coaching younger members in O level and in charge of refreshments later. Barbara loved the lectures and the residential courses at Alston Hall. She was a member of a geology society and a Science Fiction Society in Birmingham. Later Barbara also had a keen interest in the Unitarian Church, eventually becoming a lay preacher, her love of poetry and prose led her to writing several hymns that are published in the Unitarian Hymnbook.
When Barbara resumed full-time work, she became a school laboratory technician, which she loved, first at Smestow then at the Girls High School.
The years at Skidmore Avenue were largely happy years, Barbara loved hosting parties, often in the garden and well attended by members of Wolverhampton Astronomical Society. When widowed in 2015 Barbara remained at Skidmore Avenue missing Ken greatly but drawing comfort from her family, friends and interests.
In October of 2024 after a stay in hospital it became clear that she needed nursing care and was admitted to Anville court. She was very well looked after in her final days and died on 10th November 2024. The funeral was held at Lower Gornal Crematorium on the 18th of December 2024.
Barbara will always be loved and remembered for her generosity, intelligence and indomitable spirit.