Barbara Arlean Safford, 82, passed away in her sleep at home on June 23, 2026, in Puyallup, WA with her daughter beside her after a short, courageous battle with cancer.

Barbara was born on December 10, 1943, in Everett, WA to Andrew and Maxine Sutich. Her father was in the Air Force and Barbara traveled the world as a youngster, including living in the Philippines which they traveled to by boat. She graduated in 1962 in the inaugural class of Mount Tahoma High School in South Tacoma. After graduation, Barbara moved to the East Coast, working in the banking industry. In 1973, she returned home and began working at Nalley’s Fine Foods.

The following year, she married Michael Safford on July 12, 1974, and had two beautiful children. She raised her children and returned to the workforce in 1988, for the Puyallup School District as a lunch lady, retiring after 33 ½ years. She loved her students, the many generations who were her “kids”. Barbara, who also went by “Barb”, enjoyed gardening, embroidery, football, Reba concerts with her daughter, numerous football games for her son, and traveling to see the West Coast lighthouses.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister, and husband of 43 years, Mike.

Barbara is survived by her children: son Michael Jr. (Liza) Safford and daughter Erin Safford; two grandchildren Parker and Hannah; two great-grandchildren Rylan and Stella with a third on the way; brothers Tom (Nita) Sutich and John Sutich; and a large, loving extended family and treasured friends. Barbara was devoted to her family and leaves an indelible legacy.

She will never be forgotten, will be deeply missed, and tremendously loved by so many - more than the moon and stars, always.