Barbara DePue Stealey died peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, on December 30, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, kindness, and unwavering love for those she held dear.
Barbara was born on August 25, 1933, on Stillwell Road in Davisville, West Virginia, to the late Harry Camden and Elizabeth (Hanger) DePue. Raised with strong values of family and faith, she carried those principles throughout her life. She was a proud graduate of Parkersburg High School, Class of 1951.
Following high school, Barbara began her career as a C & P Telephone Operator, a role that reflected her warm manner. She later continued her working life at Peoples Bank, where she retired after 19 years of dedicated service.
On January 16, 1961, Barbara married the love of her life, Richard H. Stealey, Jr. Their 52 years of marriage was focused on creating a home filled with laughter, traditions and unconditional support for their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Barbara was a devoted mother to her four children: son Rick Stealey of Winter Park, Florida and daughters Barbara (Dave) Holbert of Waverly, West Virginia; Caroline (Sean) Keefe of Vienna, West Virginia; and Susan (Louie) Tomaro of Manhattan Beach, California. Her greatest pride was her family, and she cherished every moment spent with them.
She was a beloved grandmother to twelve grandchildren – Brook, RiAnnon, Miranda, Scott, Stephen, Seanna, Ryan, Gage, Garett, Seth, Micaela, and Luca – and a loving great-grandmother to thirteen W great-grandchildren. She also held close in her heart the memory of her late great-granddaughter, Haley Boggs.
Barbara was a devoted member of the Belpre Congregational Church for more than 50 years. She generously gave her time as a volunteer at Belpre Area Ministries, quietly serving others in the community.
Barbara possessed a joyful and adventurous spirit. She loved to travel and embraced opportunities to see the world and proudly visited every state in the continental U.S. plus Hawaii and Alaska.
God later brought many special people into her life. Most importantly, Max Cowdery brought so much joy to her and the entire family. A special thank you to her caregivers Rita, Leza, Miranda, Carla, Julie and Brianna.
Barbara will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and lovingly remembered. Bushels and bushels and ten ton truckloads of love Mom!
Services will be held Saturday 1:00 pm at the Leavitt Funeral Home, Belpre.
Burial will follow at Rockland Cemetery.
Visitation will be Friday 5-7 pm at the funeral home.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.LeavittFuneralHome.com
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