Barbara Joan Short passed away peacefully on July 8, 2024 and joins her husband Jerry and her daughter Kristy at home with her Heavenly Father. Barbara was born on October 29, 1945 in Canton OH-the firstborn of Dr. Joseph and Barbara O’Grady. She was a redheaded spitfire from day one, the oldest of five O’Grady kids. Her family moved often and she grew up in Ohio, Mississippi, Alabama, Texas and Kansas. She graduated from Halstead High in 1963.
Barbara met Jerry Short at church in Halstead, they fell in love and were married Feb 1, 1969. Jerry's 36-year career at Buick led to Barbara moving frequently, including a relocation to Houston shortly after their marriage. She gave birth to three daughters while in Houston and assumed the role of housewife and mother. And what a mother she was- she led Girl Scouts, coached sports she knew little about, and centered her entire world around her girls and their happiness and wellbeing. She and Jerry raised their family in Texas, Colorado, Michigan, Georgia and eventually back to Kansas. Along the way, she made so many friends and spearheaded a myriad of adventures.
Barbara was a woman deeply committed to serving and she volunteered with countless organizations over the years, gladly sharing her time, treasures and talents. Her faith carried her through every day of her life. She loved her friends in Salina with whom she quilted and played Bunco. She cherished her role as “Na” to 8 grandchildren the past 26 years. Barbara was a die hard sports fan and loved her KU Basketball and Denver Broncos, as well as being the #1 (and loudest!!) fan at all of her kids and grandkids games. The family would like to apologize to any officials she may have given an earful to over the years.
Barbara battled Parkinson’s for almost 10 years, stubbornly refusing to give up on how she wanted to live her life and fighting tooth and nail right up to the end for her independence. As that fire red hair turned to gray, Barb’s spirit never faltered and she continued to bring smiles and laughter to everyone with whom she came in contact.
She is survived by daughters, Cindy (Steve) of Kapaa HI and Petey of Salina, grandchildren Stephani, Janessa, Haley, Casey, Cole, Avery, Addison and Abbie, her sister Kathy Sheehan (AZ) and brother John (VA) and countless friends. She will be deeply missed for her sense of humor, her spunk and independence.