Barbara Anne Hafner

Barbara Anne Bowlin, 79, of Minerva, Ohio, passed away in hospice care following a  stroke on Sunday, January 25, 2026.

The daughter of the late Clarence and Hester (Partin) Bowlin, Barbara was born on  September 18, 1946, the fourth of ten children. She found joy in tending her garden,  quilting, reading, cooking, eating out with siblings, walking the trails of Stark County  Parks with friends; and the beaches of Emerald Isle, North Carolina, with her daughters  and grandchildren. She also loved adventure, traveling regularly and riding roller  coasters in her younger years. A devoted animal lover, she had a tenderness for all  living things. In her professional life, she was a trailblazer, stepping into non-traditional  roles and excelling at a time when women in the workplace were not the norm. She  remained tech savvy until the end of her life and loved her iPhone, MacBook, and the  internet. She was a progressive role model, demonstrating strength, independence, and  determination. Her example shaped not only the family, but all those who had the  privilege of knowing her.  Barb is survived by three daughters, Kimberly Heestand of Cincinnati, Jill (Bob) Griffith  of Grove City, and Jennifer (David) Wallace of Blythewood, SC; five sisters, Mary Lou  Hite of Alliance, Sue Syme of Dayton, Nancy Amey of Columbiana, Linda Fey of  Sebring, and Debbie Grim of Salem; six grandchildren, Katelane (Ahren) Kirschner,  Blake Griffith, Lauren Griffith, Ben Griffith, Morgan Wallace, and Andrew (Blaire)  Wallace; three great grandchildren, Ellery Kirschner, Opal Wallace, and James Wallace,  and many cherished nieces and nephews.  Barb was preceded in death by the love of her life, Melvin Hafner, who passed away  less than a year ago. Their bond remains a guiding light for their children. Also  preceding her were her parents, Clarence and Hester Bowlin; four brothers, Bill,  Clarence, Jr., Randall, and Terry Bowlin; and son-in-law William Heestand.  Honoring Barb’s wishes, no services will take place at this time. Memorial contributions  may be made in her name to the Stark County Parks or the Minerva Library.