Barbara Harp, 89, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2025, in Newark, Texas. She was born on April 21, 1936, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, to Abert "Abe" J. Crain and Lida Crain.
Barbara graduated from Lakeside High School in Hot Springs with the Class of 1953. The following year, she married the love of her life, Travis Harp, and together they moved to California, where Travis began his career with General Dynamics. During their years in California, they welcomed three sons, filling their home with joy, laughter, and fun.
In 1963, the family relocated to Fort Worth, Texas, where Barbara balanced caring for her young boys with working at Sears. In 1982, Barbara and Travis returned to San Diego to continue their work with General Dynamics. Their journey later brought them back to Fort Worth, followed by an overseas assignment in Ankara, Turkey - an experience they cherished together.
Upon retirement, Barbara and Travis settled in Bella Vista, Arkansas, where they became deeply involved in the community. Barbara found great fulfillment serving as the financial secretary at Village Baptist Church, where she and Travis were charter members. Barbara relocated to Texas and spent many years enjoying family time near the lake. She was a devoted fan of the Arkansas Razorbacks. Above all, her greatest joy came from spending time with her beloved grandchildren, creating memories they will treasure forever.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Abert "Abe" J. Crain and Lida Crain; her sister, Marie Dougan; her brothers, A.J. , and Edward Crain; and her beloved husband, Travis Harp.
She is survived by her three sons and their spouses: Curt and Terry Harp of Quitman, Texas; Trent and Denise Harp of Newark, Texas; and Ronny and Susan Harp of Rogers, Arkansas. She was a proud grandmother to Joshua and Antoinnete Harp, Jacob and Robyn Harp; Megan and Sheldon Metz, Haley and Kadir Ağiş, Hunter and Cassidy Harp; Natalie and Michael Ivers, Kristin Harp, and Trevor and Brittni Harp.
Her legacy continues through her great‑grandchildren: Lucas, Makayla, Colton, Rhaelynn, Parker, Collins, and Griffin Harp; Brilee Elkins; Anniston and Arden Ivers; MacKenzie Metz; and Beckham Hernandez. Barbara is also lovingly remembered by her nieces Linda Fry, Judy Prusso, Cheryl Crain, and Debbie Nielson.
A celebration of Barbara's life will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Village Baptist Church, 380 Glasgow Road, Bella Vista, Arkansas 72715. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation at 10:00 a.m., prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Village Baptist Church.
Village Baptist Church
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