Barbara Lea Evans Arthur

Published 9:20 am Monday, February 12, 2018

September 1, 1939 – January 28, 2018

Barbara Lea Evans Arthur, age 78, died on January 28, 2018, in Eugene, Oregon, surrounded by members of her family. The oldest of four children, she was born on September 1, 1939, in Eunice, Louisiana. She attended Basile High School, where she was a two-time All-State basketball player in the days before Title IX. She was also a cheerleader, a member of the yearbook staff, and the organist at her church. Later in her life, Barbara would establish a significant college scholarship at her alma mater in honor of her parents, Lloyd and Elvira Evans. Barbara graduated from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge with a degree in business education and married William E. Arthur of Lake Charles, Louisiana, on August 26, 1960. Together, they moved to Southern California, where they raised four children. She was enthusiastic about history, education, and government and pursued a degree in history at California State, Fullerton.

After Barbara and Bill retired to Central Oregon (Oregon Water Wonderland), Barbara continued to enjoy spending time with her family and actively pursued her interest in history, traveling extensively throughout the U.S. and abroad.

Barbara delighted in giving back to the community. She worked with Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers, serving those in need in her neighborhood, provided tutoring and support at COCC to persons working to obtain their U.S. citizenship, was an active volunteer in the SMART reading program at Three Rivers Elementary School, and drove for Meals on Wheels at the Bend Senior Center.

Barbara is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, Bill; daughter, Deborah (Jeff); Michael (Cheryl), Jennifer, and Steven (Janna); five grandchildren, Meliya, Lindsey, Sarah, and twins, Marcus and Madelyn; and sisters, Bettye Brumit and Sarah Evans of Texas.

She will be remembered for her fierce passion for her family, as a strong advocate for the poor, as a lover of music, and as a lifelong reader. We will always carry her memory in our hearts.

Her family has chosen a private memorial. Those who wish to do so are encouraged to make a donation in her name to the Caring Fund at the Community Bible Church in Sunriver, The Bethlehem Inn in Bend, or to the homeless aid program of your choosing in Central Oregon.