Barbara A. LeMaster

Barbara Ann Phillips LeMaster, lovingly known as Barb, was born on November 21, 1948, in Laurel, Maryland. She was the cherished daughter of Mary Ann Hobbs Phillips and Cecil Laughter Phillips. Her childhood began in Laurel until 1960, when the family moved to Jessup, Maryland. She completed her early education in Howard County and proudly graduated with the Class of 1966 from Howard County Senior High School in Ellicott City.

After high school, Barbara attended Eastern Mennonite College, where she continued to grow academically and personally. In time, she began building a family of her own. On April 8, 1972, she married Larry S. LeMaster, and from that union came two children: Bethany Ann, who preceded her in death, and Brandon Chandler LeMaster. Barbara carried both of her children in her heart throughout her life.

While raising her family during their years in military life, Barb also found opportunities to work outside the home. Over the years, Barbara held several roles that reflected her willingness to serve in different capacities. From 1975-1980, she worked with The Cakery Catered Bakery Company. Barbara also spent time teaching at Erial Community Church Christian School, where she taught Junior High Grammar from 2000-2003. She later worked from 2003-2006 supporting the Emergency Room's physician billing department.

Barbara was active in the community receiving President Burlington County Eagle Forum Chapter- Educational Issues Eagle Forum Award. She, also, was made an honorary citizen of Dunzweiler, Germany where her military family was stationed.

Faith and fellowship shaped much of Barbara's life. She served in several church‑related roles, including Vice President of the Protestant Wives of the Chapel in 1976 and later as Bicentennial Chairman for the Chapel. Music was another way she connected with others, singing with Al's Choral‑Community Group in New Jersey and the Community Choir of Dunzweiler, Germany. She also contributed to community events as Food Chairman for Oktoberfest at Dover Air Force Base, helping create gatherings that brought people together.

Barbara's faith was a steady anchor throughout her life. Her favorite hymn, "It Is Well With My Soul," reflected the comfort she found in worship. She often returned to the assurance of Psalm 23 and Psalm 91, passages that reminded her of God's presence, protection, and peace. Even in moments during her illness when she felt nervous, weak, or weary, she often found her way back to these familiar scriptures and songs.

Barbara was also a woman of many talents and creative passions. She loved sewing, quilting, and singing- hobbies that brought her joy and allowed her to express her creativity. She kept an impressive collection of fabric and materials, always ready to start a new project. She enjoyed counted cross-stitch, knitting, and other forms of needlework, often pouring hours into pieces made with love, care, and patience.

A lifelong learner, Barbara enjoyed reading non-fiction and writing. She shared her voice and perspective as a columnist for Officer's Wives Magazine, a role that allowed her to connect with and encourage others.

Barbara passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, at the age of 77, after a long and courageous journey with ongoing health challenges. She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Brandon Chandler LeMaster. She is also survived by her two granddaughters, Haeli Lynn LeMaster and Kayla Jayne Hurtudo (Nicholas - U.S. Navy), and her sister‑in‑law, Carol Wilcox of Catlett, Virginia. She is also lovingly remembered alongside her daughter, Bethany Ann and her brother, Jay Schenk III, who preceded her in death. Barbara is lovingly remembered by her dear friends of many years, Dora Hunter (40 years) and Susan Sinelnik (25 years), along with extended family members and friends who knew her through the years.

Barbara Ann Phillips LeMaster lived a life marked by her love for God, service, creativity, and commitment. Her legacy lives on through the people she loved, the communities she supported, and the many lives she touched along the way.