Barbara Hershberger

Barbara Hershberger, 84, of Greenville, VA, passed away at home on January 17, 2024. She was born on January 28, 1939, to Tobias J. Yoder and Saloma (Nisly) Yoder in Nowata, OK. She was baptized at age 15 into the Amish church in Stuarts Draft, VA and was a member at Pilgrim Fellowship Church. On February 26, 1965, she married Paul D. Hershberger with whom she enjoyed nearly 59 years. Their home was blessed with eight children: Lucinda (Dale) Hochstedler of Mocksville, NC; Rosetta (Steve) Zimmerman of Woodleaf, NC; Anita (Alex) Portorreal of the Dominican Republic; Brenda Hershberger of Bird-in-Hand, PA; Michael (Rosalie) of Amherst, VA; Wendel (Sarah) of Greenville, VA; Conrad (Esther) of Harrisonburg, VA; Julia Hershberger of Stuarts Draft, VA. Her 28 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren were her great delight. She is also survived by five siblings: Nora (the late Enos) Schrock, VA; Sylvia (William) Miller, VA; John Henry (MaDonna), MD; Irene (Maynard) Nisly, IN. She was preceded in death by her brother, Leo Yoder, LA. Barbara graduated as an LPN in 1965; two weeks later she married Paul. Within months, they moved to Free Union, VA, to assist with the start-up of Faith Mission Home where Barbara served as the nurse and matron. Paul and Barbara enjoyed serving together and shared a heart for the underprivileged. Over the years they gave time to friends and neighbors, Christian Light Publications, Calvary Bible School, local prison ministry, as well as a second term at Faith Mission Home. Barbara especially enjoyed her work with the Fresh Air Fund and assisting with the local church’s Widow’s Supper. She also enjoyed quilting, gardening, sewing, socializing, and loved outings and picnics. Her family was very important to her, and nothing brought sunshine to her life like visits from her children and grandchildren. Around 6 years ago, her vision began to deteriorate more rapidly due to macular degeneration. This was difficult for her, but she persisted in pursuing activities that she could do within her abilities. Attending a week-long retreat for the vision impaired gave her new courage and inspiration to live with her limitations. Barbara will be remembered for her cheerful smile and enthusiasm for life and people. She will be sorely missed but we rejoice she now has perfect vision and health. The family wishes to express their deep appreciation for the generous outpouring of love and support from our family, church, and friends during this time of grief and loss. We are so grateful. The family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at Pilgrim Christian Fellowship Church, 240 Twill Hill Road, Stuarts Draft. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 21, 2024 at Pilgrim Christian Fellowship Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes of Stuarts Draft. Relatives and friends may share condolences and memories with the family online by visiting www.reynoldshamrickfuneralhomes.com