Barbara Madany, of Farmington Hills, passed into eternal life on Thursday, March 13, 2025.  She was 86 years old.

Born in Petoskey, Michigan, on January 15, 1939, to Louis and Frances (Baumgarten) Schmidt, Barbara's life was a testament to love, generosity, and a deep commitment to family and community.

Barbara graduated from Clarenceville High School in 1956 and went on to earn her degree in education from Eastern Michigan University in 1960, where she played the flute in the marching band. While at Eastern Michigan, she met the love of her life, Ibrahim "Abe" Madany, through mutual friends, and the two were married on June 25, 1960, beginning a beautiful partnership filled with love, adventure, and shared passions. She later earned a master's degree in Math Education from Wayne State University.

Barbara began her teaching career in January 1960, teaching junior high math and science in Riverview, Michigan, until 1963. After raising her two daughters, she returned to the classroom, teaching junior high life science and biology in Taylor, Michigan, until 1977. She later taught math at Schoolcraft College from 1978 until her retirement in 1993, dedicating herself to educating and inspiring countless students. Even in retirement, Barbara continued to share her love of learning, tutoring friends and family, as well as helping to care for her first grandchild, Hannah, who was a joy and a light in her life.

Barbara was a woman of many talents and interests. She loved playing cards, especially Pinochle, bridge, and backgammon, and could often be found with a deck of cards in hand or a board game ready. Cribbage was another favorite pastime. An avid reader and mystery enthusiast, she enjoyed watching shows like Murder She Wrote, Perry Mason, Matlock, and Blue Bloods. Barbara also delighted in making apple pies—one memorable fall, she made and froze 65 pies to share with loved ones. Her culinary skills and hospitality were cherished by all who knew her.

Barbara was deeply involved in her community and church, where she sang in both the church and community choirs, served as a Deacon, participated in the Deborah Circle and Bible studies, and led the FISH organization, ensuring that those without transportation could get to medical appointments. She embodied the spirit of kindness and service, always willing to lend a helping hand.

In retirement, Barbara and her husband enjoyed winters in New Port Richey, Florida, where they built a warm and welcoming community. After his passing, Barbara continued to enjoy life to the fullest, traveling with family and friends, and making every moment count. She was known for her unwavering dedication to her children and grandchildren, attending every event she could, even navigating challenging terrains with a walker to watch a baseball game.

Barbara's love for her family knew no bounds. She was a doting grandmother, always present and supportive, and her legacy of love, honesty, generosity, kindness, and cheerfulness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband of nearly 45 years, Ibrahim, on March 31, 2005.  She is survived by her two devoted daughters, Karen (Andrew) Daily and Katherine "Kathy" Seflic; cherished grandchildren, Hannah (fiancé Steven Anderson) Daily, Drew Daily, and Jacob, Zachary and Luke Seflic; her sister, Betty (David) Smith, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, former students and colleagues.

A memorial service to celebrate Barbara's life is planned for Saturday, April 5, at 12 Noon (visitation from 11:00 am) at the First Presbyterian Church of Farmington, 26165 Farmington Rd., (at Eleven Mile Road), Farmington Hills.  The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association , the First Presbyterian Church of Farmington , or Hospice of Michigan .

Barbara's warmth, intellect, and boundless love will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her life was a true blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing her.