Barbara Gay (Simonds) Redmond

Barbara Gay Simonds Redmond passed away Thursday October 19, 2023 at Story Point at Bronson Place. She was born August 21, 1932 in Kalamazoo to Walter and Eloise (Gay) Simonds, joining older siblings Shirley and Jim and beloved grandmother, Idele Gay. Barbara was raised in Parchment, Michigan, graduated from St. Augustine High School and Western Michigan University Cum Laude. She taught fifth and sixth grades for 16 years at McKinley and St. Augustine Schools. As co-owner of Redmond Funeral homes with her husband, Arthur W. Redmond, Jr. she worked many years there also. She is survived by two children; Kathleen (Joseph) Hayes and Martha Redmond; daughter-in-law, Kathy Barkey-Redmond; seven grandchildren, Scott (Kathleen), Greg (Emma), Jason, Katie (Monte) Kerry (Steve), Daniel Arthur, Grace and Sara, nine great-grandchildren, Talia, Aiden, Redmond, Ashlyn, Sophia, Jarrett, Lawson, Andrew, and Victoria. Barbara was especially fond of her many precious nieces and nephews, including a special nephew, Kevin Ferrara and dear friends, Pat Barkey, Phalon Lewis, Sue Redmond, and Mary Simonds. Barbara was preceded in death by loving husband, Art Redmond, Jr. on February 1, 2008; son William Redmond on July 31, 2023; sister and brother-in-law, Shirley and Bud Ferrara; brother, Dr. Jim Simonds; niece, Loran Redmond; nephew, Joe Ferrara; special friend and sister-in-law, Betty Simonds; and best friends, Mary and Jerry Stahl. She was enthusiastic about her lifetime faith, devotion to family and Notre Dame Football. Barbara enjoyed any social gathering and the Fountains for 9 years was a perfect home. Friends will be received 5-7 pm Wednesday October 25, 2023 at Redmond Funeral Home, Kalamazoo where a scripture service will be held at 6:30 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 am Thursday at St. Monica Catholic Church. Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes or St. Augustine School for Art Supplies. www.redmondfuneralhomes.net