Joel Johnson
Barbara was my first friend I had... Barb and I lived next door to each other on Union Street. Our families were very close, she came from a family of four sisters. I from a family of four brothers. We began playing together at the age of four or a bit younger. Our parents were very close also. I well remember Martha and Dick as Barb knew Billie and Wally my parents. Those were the 1950's, a very different world than today.Being first friends we both had a huge impact on each other as we learned to shape relationships and expectations in others. Those people you don't forget, ever. I was fortunate to have spent a couple of visits with Barb before her passing. All the memories and early life experiences become clear how very important they are.Barb's passing reminds me that each of us will soon see life as Barb. Barb was a special friend, my first friend. I will miss her, but I have hope I will be with her again, someday...and she will greet me in the same innocence and joy as we first met.