Barbara Ann Youngsteadt

Barbara, 77, died on May 15, 2026. She departed this world peacefully, surrounded by the chatter of the Youngsteadt women.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Norman Jr., and many beloved pets. Barb is survived by her sister, Denise “Dinky”; her daughters, Dawn and Heather; her grandson, Harrison; her nieces Susan (Josh) and Jasmine; her nephew, Robert James (Sydney); her great-nieces, Lena, Aubrey, Leilani, and Leila; her great-nephew, RJ; and her feral cat, Tara. She would have been overjoyed to welcome the newest member of the family, Terri, born after her passing.

Born on July 1, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, Barb called many places home throughout her life—and several of them more than once—including Raleigh, North Carolina; Birmingham, Alabama; Khartoum, Sudan; Beirut, Lebanon; Algiers, Algeria; Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; Sarahsville and Caldwell, Ohio; Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Hillsborough, North Carolina; and, of course, Columbus, Ohio.

Barbara was incredibly resourceful, clever, and downright crafty. She could be an artist, a caretaker, a handyman, or a pig farmer. Need a typist for that dusty Smith Corona? Looking to board a horse? In the market for a hand-crocheted afghan? Own a bathhouse in need of janitorial services? Want a line of bespoke bridesmaids’ gowns? Hate that interior wall but only possess a butter knife and hammer to take it down? Call Barb.

She moved often. She fulfilled many roles. In her final years, however, we believe she finally found her truest calling: being Meemaw to Harrison. Of all the hats she wore, that one fit best. The bond between grandmother and grandson was something truly special, filled with laughter, mischief, affection, way too much sugar, and a long list of questionable science-fiction movies. Barb's unique brand of commentary will live on in the heart—and undoubtedly from the mouth—of her boy.

Barb leaves behind a legacy not defined by a single title or address, but by the countless ways she showed up for the people she loved when she was able, and by her remarkable ability to figure things out no matter what life placed in front of her.

An intimate and informal gathering will be held on Wednesday, July 1, to honor her life and celebrate what would have been her 78th birthday. Friends and family are invited to join us between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. at Switch, the speakeasy located on the lower level of The East Market, 212 Kelton Avenue, Columbus, Ohio. Children are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, please let us know of anyone looking for an ancient, largely unsocialized, but undeniably beautiful indoor cat.