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Barbara Jean
Wiley
Jun 6, 1942 — Dec 19, 2024
Barbara (Bobbie) Jean Wiley passed away peacefully on December 19, 2024, in Kennewick, Washington, surrounded by her loving family. Born on June 6, 1942, in Jamesport, Missouri, Bobbie lived a full and beautiful life devoted to her family, friends, and the simple joys that made each moment special.
As the daughter of a United States Navy ham radio operator, Bobbie spent her early years moving between the Midwest and Hawaii. After her father completed his service, the family settled in Sunnyside, Washington, before relocating to Richland, where Bobbie's warmth and charisma made a lasting impact on those around her. She married the love of her life, Bill Wiley, in 1968, and together they raised three children. Later in life, Bobbie and Bill moved to Prosser, where they embraced country living on an 18-acre property, creating a home that became a cherished gathering place for family and friends.
Bobbie's life was enriched by her many passions, which reflected her vibrant and joyful spirit. She had an enduring love for music and dancing, cherishing her collection of 1950s and 1960s hits. Favorites like Elvis Presley and Billy Ray Cyrus provided the soundtrack to some of her happiest moments, and she could often be found singingsometimes even shoutingalong with the music she adored. Holidays of all kinds were always a magical time in her home, as she poured her creativity, enthusiasm, and love into decorating, celebrating, and making every occasion special for those she cared about. She was a gifted cook whose homemade meals, sugar cookies, casseroles, and pies became legendary among family and friends.
Bobbie's lifelong love of dogs was another hallmark of her generous and nurturing spirit. She adored her pets, especially her Yorkies, who were her faithful companions and brought her endless joy over the years.
Bobbie's professional life included work at the Hanford Site in an administrative role until her retirement. She later returned to work as a checker at WinCo, a position she truly enjoyed for the camaraderie it brought, and her warm smile brought joy to the hundreds of people she assisted each day. Beyond her work, Bobbie found great happiness in square dancing, jeeping, camping, and taking scenic rides in the countryside with her husband Bill. She delighted in babysitting her grandchildren, sharing songs, rhymes, and stories that left an indelible mark on their hearts. Her "Grandma-isms," like "Don't mess with the best 'cause the best don't mess. Don't fool with the cool 'cause the cool don't fool," "Yar rattler," and "Grandma Wiley is nuttier than a fruitcake," were a source of laughter and comfort, bringing joy to all who heard them.
To know Bobbie, was to love Bobbie. She will be deeply missed by her family and everyone who knew her. She had a way of making everyone feel loved, valued, and important, leaving
an impact that will endure far beyond her lifetime. Her unwavering kindness, boundless warmth, and joy created lasting memories for her family and friends. She reveled in the accomplishments of others, celebrating every milestone, big or small, with genuine pride and delight. Her love and encouragement will remain a treasured gift to all whose lives she touched.
Bobbie was preceded in death by her parents, Calvin and Ruby Pearson, and her stepson, William Wiley Daigle. She is survived by her husband, Bill Wiley; her children, Michelle (Tony) Chunn, Malcom Jr. (Janet) Chunn, and Jim (Debbie) Wiley; her stepchildren, Kristi (Rich) Hutchins and Greg Daigle; her grandchildren, Lance (Courtney) Frisbee, Vanessa (Josh) Griffith, Matt Vickerman, Calvin (Kaylee) Chunn, Alec (Shane) Chunn, Tyler Wiley, Justin (Nicole) Wiley, and Wyatt Wiley; and her great-grandchildren, Carter, Ellie, Xander, Milo Frisbee, Tripp and Nash Griffith, Riley, Carson, and Chase Vickerman, Kenley and Colby Chunn, Ivey, Cassielle, and Navi Wiley.
She is also survived by her step-grandchildren, Rich Jr. (Jillian) Hutchins and their children Clara, Natalee, Trey, Uriah, and Sadie; Kailee (Kelsey) Tanneberg and their child, Palmer; and Rachel (Wesley) Oja and their children Wyatt, Quinlee, and baby Oja.
A celebration of Bobbie's life will be held on February 21, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Temple Baptist Church, located at 4555 Arena Rd. in Richland, WA, where Bobbie enjoyed fellowship, friendship, and worship for many years. Memorial contributions may be made to Tri-Cities Chaplaincy Hospice House or Meals on Wheels. Bobbie's radiant spirit, unwavering love for her family and friends, and passion for life will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
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Temple Baptist Church
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