Barbara Pence Folmar

She leaves a loving family: Debi Taylor (Glynn), Teri Mills (Art), Frank Folmar (Merrisa), three grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Barbara was born on September 20, 1932 in West Palm Beach, Florida; the only child of Ettie and Franklin Pence. She graduated from Stetson University with a degree in psychology, but more importantly, this is where she met Joe. They married in August of 1954 and moved to Louisville, Kentucky so Joe could attend Baptist Seminary. Barbara supported Joe financially, spiritually, and emotionally as he went to seminary full time. After Joe’s graduation they moved to Frostproof, Florida for a few years then on to Goodwater, Alabama. Barbara was very involved in the church; playing the piano, singing in the choir, and teaching bible classes. She was also a large part of the community, often entertaining at their home. During this time she also participated in the PTA, made her children’s costumes for school plays, threw unique birthday parties, and taught at the local school. The family’s next move was to Jacksonville, Florida.

Barbara attended University of North Florida to earn a degree in Elementary Education. She taught for many years before retiring. Barbara and Joe remained involved in the church and community while spending more time on the road, often camping for weeks at a time, and flying and cruising to places around the world. They were able to visit all 50 states and a few countries.

Throughout her life, Barbara dedicated her time to making sure those around her; family, friends, and neighbors were looked after. She often donated food to various causes, had a gift for a friend, a toy for a newborn, and was always delivering cookies to neighbors. She volunteered with Meals on Wheels, made quilts for family and friends, and enjoyed entertaining neighbors with an afternoon tea.

Eventually she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and moved to a lovely assisted living home in South Carolina. Our hearts are heavy but she is no longer suffering. She is with the love of her life, Joe. Her family, friends, and neighbors will greatly miss her.

Her funeral will be held in the Lodge at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn located at 4810 San Jose Blvd, on Monday, June 26 at 11:00am. Visitation will be at 10:30am, prior to the service. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Alzheimer’s association. www.alz.org

A visitation for Barbara will be held Monday, June 26, 2023 from 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Chapel, 4801 San Jose Blvd Jacksonville, FL 32207. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM. A private committal service will occur at Evergreen Cemetery, 4535 Main St, Jacksonville, FL 32206.