Barbara J. "BJ" Krantz was escorted by the Lord to her forever home on Dec. 26, 2008. We know that His host of angels, along with the loved ones who went before her, joyously celebrated and cheered her arrival in heaven. Her spirit remained perpetually youthful during her 71 year journey on earth.

Barbara was a beloved mother, sister, friend, mentor, teacher,student, co-worker, neighbor, sponsor, volunteer, church member and an ardent follower of Christ. She will be dearly missed by those whose lives she touched.

She enjoyed meeting new people and initiating lively conversations. She was a good listener and a vivid storyteller. She enjoyed learning and using uncommon words. Barbara liked history, music of all kinds, art, photography, acting, writing, reading and making people laugh. She enjoyed the beach, parties and family gatherings, travel and she especially liked road trips (even with four kids in tow!). She thought bored people were boring. She adored children and the younger generation, and they, too, seemed drawn to her youthful spirit.

Barbara forgave people who hurt her. She understood and had a heart for those who had been abandoned or abused.

She cared about relevant issues. She rallied against social injustices and intolerances of all kinds. She wrote letters to senators and letters to the editors. she always exercised her right to vote. And she knew that one person CAN make a difference. Barbara lived a life filled with passion and purpose.

In her winter years, her spirit refused to be stifled by the illness and limitations that ravaged her physical body. Her sense of humor was ever present. Generous to a fault, even in death, her wishes were to be donated to an anatomical program. Memorial services will be planned at a later date by her family.

She is survived by her children, Scott Krantz of Claremont, Calif., Laurie Krantz and her husband Sonny Lynch of Harrison; Lisa Krantz of Burlington, Wash., Jeff Krantz and his wife, Sandi of Clemmons, N.C.; two sisters, Sharon Hipp of Saluda, N.C. and Jean DeLau of Hendersonville, N.C. and their families; eight loving grandchildren; and nine beautiful great-grandchildren.

Any memorial donations may be made to the Christian Children's Fund.