Barbara Jean Paige

Barbara Jean Paige of Lakebay died peacefully Feb. 2, surrounded by family members. She was 92 years old. Barbara Jean was born and raised in Tacoma. Her parents were Theodore Gordon and Nora Coyne.

Barbara Jean graduated from Lincoln High School in 1950. She married Richard Paige May 22, l952. They raised three children together and were active in the Tacoma Elks Club, The Town and Country Dance Club, and the Associated General Contractors Association.

Barbara loved water skiing, tending flowers, and reading poetry. She enjoyed spending time at the family beach place each summer with her children, her nieces and nephews, and friends and family.

She was known throughout her life for her sharp wit and colorful stories.

She loved silk scarves, shoulder pads and high heels. She worked at The Bon Marché in Tacoma for several years in the women’s fashion department. She enjoyed putting a fashionable outfit together and making an entrance. Her family nickname was “the Queen.”

Barbara joined AA in the 1980s, where she participated regularly and sponsored other members. She deeply valued her AA community. She was proud of her 38 years of sobriety and was known to quote the Serenity Prayer with great frequency.

For the last 20 months of her life, Barbara lived at the Mustard Seed Village. The staff treated her as a beloved family member and affectionally described her as “spicy.” Several of the staff went above and beyond in their care, regularly bringing her the flowers she loved, visiting her on their days off, and advocating for her needs. The family will be forever grateful for their efforts.

Barbara Jean is survived by her sister, Gail Livermore (Pasadena, California); her daughter, Lisa Dunham (Larry); son, Jon Paige (Teri); and grandchildren, Allison Clift, Jordanna Warneck, Caitlin Black, Courtney Paige, Vasa Dunham and Josh Paige. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews and great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held locally March 29.