Barbara Sue "Barb" Hale Straughen passed away peacefully on July 4th, surrounded by love and family. Born in Honolulu and raised in the Carolinas, she was a woman of strength, humor, and soul—part island breeze, part Carolina grit.

Barb found joy in life's simple pleasures: sunsets, laughter, good stories, and her favorite herbal remedy, enjoyed with unapologetic delight. She believed in comfort over convention, forgiveness over grudges, and living every moment with heart.

She shared decades of memories with her ex-husband, Bill—seafood feasts, motorcycle rides, and laughter that never quite faded. Even in her final days, she insisted on green pedicures with her sons—a moment of beauty and mischief that defined her perfectly.

She is lovingly remembered by her sons, Eric and Bruce; daughters-in-law Brandy and Ashley; and her grandchildren—Liam, Leilani, Gabriel, and Michael—who each carry her spark. She is also fondly remembered by her brother Jim and her sister Frances, who shared in her stories, laughter, and unwavering love of family.

Her family will celebrate her life privately, with stories, laughter, and a bonfire—just as she would have wanted.

In Her Honor

Plant something beautiful, hug someone tight, and when the sun sets just right, take a breath and savor the view. She'll be there, smiling with you.

"When the wind is still and the sun begins to set, I am there. Laughing with you. Reminding you: don't waste the view." - Nolan Sage Hollis