Barbara A. (Smith) Denhard of Peabody, formerly of Reading, died December 2, 2016 at Continuing Care at Brooksby Village in Peabody. She was 91 years of age.

Having only recently moved to Peabody, Barbara had lived an active life in Reading for 67 years. She grew up in Bartlett, NH and graduated high school in a class of 12. After completing business school in Boston and working for several years she and Bill married and moved to Reading to start a family. As her kids got older Barbara returned to work in a variety of jobs ranging from secretary to electronic assembly to medical office work.
Barbara was an active participant in church activities and was always available to help in any way possible. An excellent baker, her skills were always in demand for fund-raising and social activities. Her involvement with church and her friends there were very important parts of her life.

Barbara, along with her Reading pals Alice, Iris, Eva, Peg, Gertrude, Ruth, Dot,and Sylvia was a proud member of their self-named group the Bi**ches, whom their husbands knew not to mess with. They got together to plan family outings, holiday parties and support for worthy causes and church functions. As the group dwindled to a small core of regulars they would meet weekly for lunch and reminiscing at the Last Corner Restaurant in Reading.

Married to an avid beekeeper, Barbara was active in the Essex County Beekeepers Association. You may have met her helping out at the Bee & Honey Exhibits at the Topsfield Fair over the years.
She and Bill enjoyed traveling, visiting China several times as well as Canada, Australia, Bermuda, Puerto Rico, most of Europe and all of the US States. Barbara made lasting friendships with fellow travelers met along the way and kept in touch over the years.
Barbara is remembered for her selflessness in helping others, whether shopping for the home bound or caring for ailing relatives and friends. When Barbara accepted you as a friend it was with an unquestionable loyalty. Her love, care and dedication to her family was felt every day.

She was the beloved wife of William G. "Bill" Denhard. Devoted mother of Craig W. Denhard and his wife Tammy of Franktown, CO, George H. Denhard and his wife Florence of Marblehead and Bruce D. Denhard and his wife Karin of Barrington, NH. Loving grandmother of Adam, Mollie and C.J. Denhard.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, December 7 at the Douglass, Edgerley and Bessom Funeral Home 25 Sanborn St. (corner of Woburn St.) Reading at 12 Noon. Burial to follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery, Reading. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 11:00AM to 12:00PM. Those who wish may make contributions in Barbara's memory to the Alzheimer's Assoc. MA/NH Chapter 480 Pleasant St. Watertown, MA 02472.