Barbara A. Sleboda

Barbara Ann Sleboda, 80, peacefully passed away on January 5, 2024, at Harbor Healthcare nursing home in Lewes, DE, following a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s.

Born on January 1, 1944, to Jozef Sleboda and Anna (Bolesta) Wilfong, Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, niece Nancy Chambers, and many cherished friends and relatives.

Beloved wife of the late Russell Studer (m: 1962-1999) is survived by four daughters that they raised in Jessup, MD: Barbara (Brian) Baer of Milford, DE; Lynanne (Chris) Reed of Beaufort, SC; Cathryn (John) Fox of Lititz, PA; and Theresa Studer of St. Petersburg, FL. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren: Larry (Lisa) Sturgill, Russell Sturgill, Sean (Despoina) Sturgill, Alexandra (Clinton) Fortier, Steele Reed, August Fox, Ellit Fox, and Rebekah Simmons. Her great-grandchildren include Panteli and Stylianos Sturgill, Avelynn, Emily, and Lacey Fortier.

Raised in Curtis Bay, MD, Barbara graduated from Southern High School in 1961, distinguished as a member of the National Junior and Senior Honor Society.

Deeply devoted to her Catholic faith, Barbara served at St. Lawrence Martyr in Jessup, MD, as a Eucharistic Minister, Liturgy Committee member, Reader, Lady’s Guild participant, and Choir member. In Jessup, she contributed as a Girl Scout leader, JPYO girls’ softball team coach, and secretary of the Jessup Improvement Association. A member of Elks Lodge #1778, Barbara earned Elk of the month in February 2010 and 2012.

Her infectious love for song and dance brought joy to everyone around her, a sentiment she extended to fellow nursing home residents, especially those wheelchair-dependent. Barbara's passion for writing allowed her to share her life experiences and adventures with others.

Services will be held at Berry-Short Funeral Home, 119 NW Front Street, Milford, DE on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, with a viewing at 1pm and Eulogy at 2 pm. A mass of Christian burial will be scheduled at a later date.

Online condolences or tributes are welcome for the family at www.shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com