Obituary of Barbara Caroline Townend

Barbara Townend passed early Thursday, April 5 with her two great loves at her side, Jim Johnson, and the “other man in her life”, her dog Baxter.  

Barbara was 78 years old.  She grew up in Southern California and when she made her way to Santa Cruz 46 years ago she decided that there was no other place she would rather be.  

Aside from the love of her immediate family, her life was defined by love and connection with three communities: Santa Cruz real estate colleagues, Imperial Courts Tennis Club, and her 32nd Avenue neighborhood family.  

Barbara invested nearly 40 years of her life as a real estate agent helping families find their new home in the community. The last 35 years she spent joyfully working with her colleagues at Monterey Bay properties.

Barbara cherished community and thought of it as a verb. Neighbors on 32nd Avenue say that she was often the glue that put them together and made everyone feel welcome.  Pastimes that brought Barabara joy included mornings gardening just so she could share flowers with neighbors, gathering with tennis club friends, and chasing low-tide for Baxter‘s walks.

Barbara will be remembered and cherished by her partner Jim Johnson, buddy Baxter, son Jim Townend, daughter Lena Townend, four grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.

Barbara's family is planning a Celebration of Life on Friday, April 20, 2:00 PM at Seascape Resort in Aptos, where they hope that her beloved communities will gather to share stories and celebrate her bright spirit.

In lieu of flowers, those who are interested are encouraged to donate to the Santa Cruz SPCA.