Barbara Sheward, 88

Barbara Francis Sheward, age 88, passed away peacefully in her home on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, with her caretaker daughter by her side.

Barbara was born on September 8, 1937 to Marklin and Ruth Welburn. She grew up alongside her two older brothers Keith and Kenneth. She graduated from Decatur High School before continuing her education at Davenport College.

Barbara began her career as an executive secretary at The Upjohn Company, where she met the love of her life, Robert Blaine Sheward. They married on September 20, 1958 and built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work.

Together, Barbara and Robert raised their family on a dairy farm in Constantine, where they taught the value of dedication, perseverance, and caring for others. Throughout her life, Barbara embraced many different roles and business ventures. She worked in the plastics industry, was a realtor and partnered in numerous entrepreneurial endeavors, including operating the Bulldog Tanning and Fitness Center in Vicksburg. No matter what path she pursued, Barbara was known for her determination, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her family.

Barbara was a devoted mother to her adopted children, Marklin, Shelba, Cory, and Sherri. Her greatest joy came from her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she loved beyond measure.

She is survived by her daughter Shelba Forbes and son Cory (Vicki) Sheward as well as her grandchildren Rachelle (Cody) Caswell, Ashley (Jeremiah) Jarvis, and Bryce Johnson, and by her cherished great-grandchildren Caiden, Renna, Ryker, and Calla Caswell, and Taelynn, Raegan, and Braxton Jarvis. She was preceded in death by her parents Marklin and Ruth Welburn, her brothers Keith and Kenneth Welburn, her husband Robert Sheward, her son Marklin Sheward, and daughter Sherri Sheward.

Barbara found joy in the simple blessings of life. She loved knitting, golfing, gardening, traveling, attending Bible study, serving faithfully in her church, line dancing, spending time at Sandy Pines, and doting on her beloved cats. Nothing made her smile more than cheering on her great-grandchildren at their sporting events and activities.

Above all else, Barbara’s life was a reflection of her deep faith. She faithfully attended church and instilled a love for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in her children and grandchildren. Her example of faith, kindness, generosity, and unconditional love will continue to guide her family for generations to come.

Barbara will be remembered for her warm heart, quiet strength, unwavering faith, and the love she freely shared with everyone around her. Though her family will miss her dearly, they find comfort in knowing she is now with her beloved husband and other loved ones, resting in the presence of her Savior.

A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held at the Eickhoff Funeral Home (311 W Main St., Mendon, MI 49072) on Saturday August 8, 2026 with visitation beginning at 10am and the memorial service taking place at 11am with Pastor Carl Litchfield officiating. A small family gravesite burial will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to a local animal shelter, honoring Barbara’s lifelong faith and servant’s heart. Condolences and memories may be expressed to Barbara’s family at eickhofffuneralhome.com