Heaven got a little more colorful—and a lot more Irish on September 3, 2026.

Barbara Jeanne Erickson was a woman who brought color, laughter, music, and love wherever she went. Known lovingly by many names—bee jae, Barbie, Barb, Mom—but most importantly, Oma, the title that held the most special place in her heart.

Barbara had a way of making life an adventure. She loved spending time in her garden, crocheting, and, in her younger days, creating beautiful counted cross-stitch pieces. She also loved singing with her friends and enjoyed her afternoon wine-drinking dates, where laughter and conversation were always on the menu.

Her heart had an especially soft spot for animals—sometimes, it seemed, even more than herself. She faithfully fed the stray cats who visited her front porch each day and lovingly cared for the many pugs who shared her life throughout the years.

Halloween was always an adventure with Barbara. Trick-or-treaters quickly learned that getting candy from her sometimes came with a special request: they had to sing a Christmas song first! It was just one of the many ways she made ordinary moments memorable and brought a smile to those around her.

Barbara leaves behind a family who will forever cherish the memories, laughter, and love she gave so generously. She is survived by her children, TyLeigh; Teisha and Geno; and Heather jo and Travis. She was blessed with 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, each of whom added immeasurable joy to her life.

Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Bill and Grace Hurley, her sister, Colleen and her husband Jim.

Though our hearts are heavy, we know Barbara would want us to remember the laughter, the music, the gardens, the animals, the wine dates, and the little moments that made life beautiful.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and a lifetime of colorful memories. And somewhere in Heaven, we imagine bee jae is singing with friends, surrounded by animals, and making sure everyone knows that Oma has arrived.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Funeral service will be 10:30 AM, Saturday, September 12, 2026 at Eddy Funeral Home, Jamestown, ND with Pastor Susan Haukaas officiating. Inurnment will be at a later date.

Eddy Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.