Obituary of Barbara Smith Stengel

In Loving Memory of Barbara Smith Stengel, a Cherished Mother, Grandmother, and Friend

Barb Stengel, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend peacefully departed this world on April 23, 2024, at the age of 92, surrounded by love. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, unwavering dedication to her family, and a remarkable Boston accent. 

Born in the Bronx on August 19, 1931, Barb spent her early years in Boston, New Hampshire and Maine, always enjoying time outside. After marrying, she moved across the country from place to place, leaving behind renovated beauties in exchange for new adventures. She lived for moments of connection and brought a flair for celebration in everything she did. She raised four children in a warm and loving home, full of parties and delicious gourmet food. Barb settled in the Southeast, finding joy amidst the sands and waves of Fernandina Beach and the majestic mountains of North Carolina. 

Her home was a sanctuary of treasures and personal style, where laughter, love, and the Lifetime Movie Network echoed through the halls. She enjoyed traveling and simple pleasures like antiquing, reading, playing cards and spending time with her animals and dear friends.

Barb faced adversity with grace and strength, demonstrating extraordinary resilience. She approached every day with a kind heart and a gentle spirit, relying on her faith in God to keep her open to the gifts of a new day. 

Her gentle presence and nurturing spirit touched the lives of all who knew her, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts. Her unconditional love knew no bounds, and her family was her greatest joy. Known as Nana, or Nan, to her grandchildren, she showered them with boundless affection and never missed a chance to create cherished memories. Her friends and family benefitted from her steadfast calendar of handwritten greetings over the years, always sent with endless love. 

Barb will be deeply missed by her children, Scott (Susan), Kim (Patrick), Lori (Tim) and Shawn (Maria), her grandchildren, Shannon (Jamie), Leslie (Shawn), Matthew (Caleb), Blake (Molly), Drew (Karlee), and Sam, her great-grandchildren, Logan, London, Austin, August, and Hallie, her lifelong friends, Arlene and Candi and all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

A celebration of Barb’s life will be held off the coast of South Carolina, with details to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Cardz For Kidz or Operation Smile, in Barb’s honor.

Although we grieve the loss of Barb, we celebrate the profound impact that she had on our lives. We find comfort in the cherished memories we shared with her. May she find eternal peace, and may her legacy of love and connection continue to inspire us all.

South Carolina Cremation Society is assisting the family. Family and friends may sign the online guest book by clicking on the "tribute wall" tab above.