Barbara Ann Schaeffer, a vibrant spirit and the heart of her family, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at St. Luke’s Hospice in Bethlehem. At 72, Barbara concluded a courageous battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of music, laughter, and love.

Born in Coaldale on February 12, 1954, she was the daughter of the late Elwood and Dorothy (Kunkel) Gladney. Attending Tamaqua schools, Barbara spent her career in the textile industry, most recently bringing her dedication to Majestic Fire Apparel in Lehighton.

Barbara was truly the life of the party. Whether she was singing along to a local band or shining at a social gathering, her energy was infectious. She had a deep passion for cars and was a fixture at regional car shows, always taking immense pride in her own vehicles. Above all, her greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted "Gram" to her six grandchildren, who were the absolute center of her world.

She is survived by her loving husband, Steven P. Schaeffer; her daughters, Lisa Marie Hill and Summer Schaeffer; her brother, Elwood Gladney; and her sisters, Sandra Kammerdiener and Tracy Chappell. Her memory will be cherished forever by her adored grandchildren: Johnathan, Samantha, Mikey, Deanna, Brandon, and Damien.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Robert S. Nester Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. 2066 West Penn Pike New Ringgold, Pennsylvania 17960. (570) 386-5884A Graveside Services will be held at 2 o'clock P.M. on on Wednesday April 22, 2026 at Odd Fellows Cemetery located on West Broad St. Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252.

Online condolences or a fond memory of Barbara can be expressed by visiting www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com