Barbara Joan Marra

SALEM – Barbara Joan Marra, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and artist, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at the age of 87.

Born on July 2, 1938, to H. Samuel Thomas and Violet May Thomas, Barbara grew up with a deep love of learning and a desire to bring creativity into the lives of others. Though her early education in Greenford, Ohio lacked formal art instruction, this absence became the spark that fueled her lifelong passion. She dreamed of becoming an art teacher so that other children could experience what she had missed.

Barbara achieved that dream, earning her bachelor’s degree in art education from Kent State University. Her teaching career began at United Local Schools, where fate introduced her to Joseph Marra – her future husband and lifelong love. In a charming twist of fate, Joe had orchestrated their shared office space just to get to know her better. Their love blossomed quickly, and they were married for 60 wonderful years until Joe’s passing in 2022.

Barbara went on to teach all grade levels at Salem City Schools in Salem, Ohio, and later at Lisbon Schools, concluding a 30-year career that left an indelible mark on countless students. She was a gifted educator, remembered not only for her warm encouragement but for igniting a love for art that led many of her students to pursue artistic careers and earn recognition at the local, national, and international levels.

Her artistic talents were wide-ranging, but she was best known in her community for her paintings and the whimsical caricature cards she lovingly created for friends and special occasions. She gave her art freely, brightening the lives of many throughout Salem and beyond.

Barbara was an active and respected member of several organizations, including the Butler Institute of American Art in Youngstown, the Burchfield Society and Museum in Salem, and Delta Kappa Gamma, the Teacher’s Honorary Society, where she was once honored as Teacher of the Year.

A woman of deep faith, Barbara was a devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church of Salem, serving as a Sunday school teacher, deacon, and elder throughout the years.

Above all, Barbara cherished her family. She is survived by her loving sons, Dr. Joe Marra (Jennifer) and Dr. Rick Marra (Cyndi), who not only followed professional paths in health care but inherited their mother’s artistic spirit. Her greatest joy came from being “Mimi” to her two grandsons, Roman and Rocco, with whom she shared endless creativity, love, and laughter.

She also leaves behind her dear siblings, Carolyn Gump (Blair) and Jim Thomas, who remained close throughout her life.

Barbara’s life was a tapestry of love, creativity, and service – each thread woven with care, compassion, and imagination. She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever celebrated by all who knew her.

Friends and family will be received from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Thursday, August 7, 2025, at Stark Memorial and from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Friday, August 8, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church.

A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the church with Pastor Annie Parkman officiating. The burial will follow at Hope Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Barbara’s memory to the Burchfield Society, 867 E. 4th St., Salem, OH 44460 or the First Presbyterian Church of Salem, 436 E. 2nd St., Salem, OH 44460, to continue her legacy of nurturing young artists and serving her faith community.

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary “Hugs from Home” program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Barbara’s obituary or send condolences, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

8/2/25