Barbara L. Colwell

     Barbara L. (Beard) Colwell, age 82, of Tionesta, PA, formerly of Youngstown, OH, died on Thursday evening, June 15, 2023 at her home in Tionesta.  She was born in Johnstown, PA, on April 23, 1941, daughter of the late Donald C. and Hazel (Mardis) Beard.

     Barbara was a tireless advocate for her son, Ron, who, through her hard work, was the first autistic student to graduate from Youngstown City Schools.  She worked as a mail carrier in the Tionesta area before retiring.  She loved animals, especially cats.  Barbara enjoyed cooking for her family and spending time with them, especially her great grandchildren. 

     She is survived by her daughter, Audrey J. Zarbaugh and her husband Dale of Youngstown.  Two grandsons: Zach D. Zarbaugh and his wife Samantha of Berlin Center, OH and Alec T. Zarbaugh and his wife Vanessa of Poland, OH.  One great grandson, Carter D. Zarbaugh of Berlin Center, and two great granddaughters, Zara I. and Alita J. Zarbaugh of Poland.

     In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Ronald S. Colwell on July 20, 2013.

     There will be no public visitation.  All services held will be private.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Norman J. Wimer Funeral Home of Tionesta.  Messages of sympathy may be left at www.wimerfuneralhome.com or find us on Facebook.