Barbara S. Stainbrook, 86

Barbara S. Stainbrook, born June 7, 1938, to Bill and Lydia Miller in Huntingburg, Indiana, passed away peacefully at home on June 14, 2024, at the age of 86, surrounded by her loving family and pets.

Barbara’s early aspiration was to become a missionary, but she found her true calling in education. After graduating from Huntingburg High School, she attended Indiana Central College, earning her degree in 1960. Barbara began her career as a first-grade teacher at Clinton Young Elementary School in Perry Township, Marion County. Her dedication to education spanned over two decades at Clinton Young, where she also served two terms as President of the Perry Education Association, remaining an active member throughout her career.

Following her tenure at MSD Perry Township, Barbara joined the Indiana State Teaching Association’s professional staff, contributing significantly to professional development initiatives, including the annual Indiana State Teachers Conference. She excelled in human relations and worked closely with the Student Education Association. Retiring in 1997, Barbara continued her passion for teaching as a substitute and supervised student teachers at Butler University.

In addition to her educational endeavors, Barbara engaged in civic service, volunteering at the Grace Food Pantry, Bloomington Hospital gift shop, among other organizations. She was known for her compassion and respect for all individuals. Her love and compassion extended to animals, especially those who needed a home such as Mia, her shih tzu, and Corrina, her miniature donkey who participated at nativity scenes on Palm Sunday services. 

Finally, from 1988 until the very last of her life, Barbara Stainbrook loved, protected, and maintained Jim Stainbrook, and the children, Susan and Steven, who survive her. They will eternally cherish Barbara Stainbrook and her memory. Survivors also include the immediate family, brother Larry Miller and his children: Jack, Jeb, Shawn, and Jamie, and grandchildren. Not least, Ernest Gonzales, who meant so much to Barbara and who returned the same with care, love, and service. Especially dear to Barbara was also Tammy Krogstad about whom Barb often asked.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the medical and social service staff at Indiana Healthcare, Monroe Hospital, and The Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Special gratitude goes to Drs. Bradford Bomba, Jr., Charanjit S. Rihal, and their teams, along with Anna Filler, a dedicated home nurse.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Allen Funeral Home, 4155 S. Old State Road 37, Bloomington, Indiana 47401, on June 19, 2024, with a calling at 3:00 and service at 4:00.

In Barbara’s memory, please be kind to others whenever possible.