Barbara Kahl, of Novi, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, entered eternal life late Tuesday evening, December 12, at Ascension Providence Hospital, Novi.  She was 84 and hospitalized only for a few days.

Barbara was born March 23, 1939, on the family farm in Arthur, Illinois, to the late Jonas and Margaret (Ramsey) Sexton.  She married Richard "Dic" Kahl on March 4, 1962, at the Arthur Christian Church in Arthur Illinois.  Sadly, Dic preceded her in death on February 18, 2022, after a nearly 60-year marriage.

Barbara, a retired school teacher by profession, will be remembered as a deeply caring and vivacious lady who left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew her. She taught for years in the Farmington Public School system and retired in the early 2000s.  Known for her blend of fun-loving spirit and direct honesty, she touched many lives with her genuine warmth and kindness. Her love for her family was boundless, and she eagerly anticipated the arrival of her first great-grandson due in May of 2024.

Remaining remarkably active even in her later years, Barbara found joy in various activities, including pickleball, golf, and tennis, and a passion for card games like bridge, pinochle, and more recently, mahjong. Her vibrant spirit extended to her involvement in the social group, Double Ring, at her cherished Nardin Park United Methodist Church, where she found immense joy in connecting with others. She had a sweet tooth, and few things delighted her as much as indulging in a Snickers Blizzard from Dairy Queen.

In her passing, Barbara leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Her vibrant personality and genuine care for others will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to have known her.

Surviving are devoted daughter, Tammy (Paul) Kochan; and three cherished grandchildren, Craig (Katie) Latham, Hannah Latham, and Scott Latham.  In addition to her husband, Barbara was preceded in death by her son, Craig, on December 24, 1977, her son-in-law, Gary Latham, on April 4, 2009, and brothers, Coen, Mac, and J.C. Sexton.

Friends and family may gather for visitation at Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home on Sunday afternoon, December 17th, from 1-5 pm.

Barbara's funeral ceremony is planned for Monday morning, December 18, at 11:30 am, at Nardin Park United Methodist Church, Farmington Hills.

Burial will take place on Tuesday, December 19, at 11am, at Arthur Cemetery in Arthur, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are kindly suggested to Nardin Park Church.

Though she may no longer be physically among us, Barbara's spirit will live on in the countless lives she touched and the warmth she brought to every heart she encountered.  May she rest in peace.