Barbara Pfeifer Shipps
Barbara Jean Pfeifer Shipps, 87, of Zanesville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Thursday,
November 21, 2024, at Brookdale Senior Living of Zanesville, surrounded by love and care.
Born on November 8, 1937, in Youngstown, Ohio, Barbara was the cherished daughter of the
late Robert and Mary Louise Chasko Pfeifer. A proud graduate of Bishop Rosecrans High
School, Barbara began an extraordinary journey that led her to Los Angeles, California, where
she worked as a model in the fashion industry. She later returned to Zanesville, where she
married David E. Shipps in 1960, and together they raised three beloved daughters, a source of
immense pride and joy for Barbara.
Barbara’s professional life reflected her passion for fashion and customer service. She held roles
at Victoria’s Secret in Columbus, Ohio, and Kohl’s Department Store in Zanesville, where she
excelled in sales and built lasting relationships with her colleagues and customers. Barbara
retired in 2020 after decades of dedication and achievement.
As a young woman, Barbara competed in numerous beauty pageants, earning the title of Miss
Southern Ohio in 1957. This accomplishment inspired her dedicated involvement in charitable
work and community events throughout Zanesville and the surrounding areas.
Barbara’s vibrant personality shone in every aspect of her life. She found joy in golfing, tending
to her garden, dancing, and sharing laughter during card games with her dear friends. Barbara
also treasured her time at Buckeye Lake, where she spent 20 wonderful years boating and
hosting social gatherings. However, her greatest happiness came from the time spent with her
children and grandchildren, creating memories filled with love and laughter.
Barbara is survived by her three daughters, Julie (Mark) Antonetz, Kim Nowell, and Lori (Rick)
Smith; six grandchildren, Greta Antonetz, Sophia Antonetz, Nicholas Nowell, Alexander
(Emma) Nowell, Brittany (Jody) Leckrone, and Brody (Samantha) Smith; two
great-grandchildren, Griffin and Tatum Smith; two step-great-grandchildren, Caden and Carter
Leckrone; her siblings Judy Smith of Texas, David Pfeifer of Zanesville, and Patricia Thress of
Florida; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by the father of her children, David E. Shipps, and her dear friend,
Chuck Kramer.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Sarah Vincenzo and the entire staff at Brookdale Senior
Living of Zanesville and Genesis Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Bryan &
Hardwick Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, December 6, 2024, at
10:30 a.m. at St. Nicholas Catholic Church. A private family burial will follow at Mt. Olive Cemetery. All guests are invited to a luncheon at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 275 Sunrise Center Dr., Zanesville, immediately following the church service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to Genesis Hospice, 713 Forest
Avenue, Zanesville, Ohio, 43701.
The Bryan & Hardwick Funeral Home is handling arrangements. To share memories and
condolences, please visit www.BryanHardwickFH.com.
Barbara’s warmth, grace, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed and fondly
remembered by all who knew her.
