Barbara Louise Austen

Barbara Louise Austen, 73, passed away peacefully at home on April 18, 2026, after a short battle with lung cancer. She was born on September 14, 1952, in Morenci, Arizona, and spent most of her life in Arizona. Barbara graduated from Palo Verde High School in Tucson and built a life centered around family, hard work, and simple joys.

Barbara was a devoted mother to her three children: Jennifer Stewart, Melanie Para, and Eric Codding (Crystal). She was a proud grandmother to Charles Stewart, Kylee Stewart, Christian Parra, Miguel Parra, Ryan Oram (Heather), and Brandon Oram, and a loving great-grandmother to Jay Oram, Elliott Oram, Thomas Oram, and Corbin Oram. She is also survived by her brother, Charles Fleming; her sister, Linda Pennington; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, J.W. Fleming, and her mother, Helen Fleming.

Barbara spent many years working in her family’s business, Jay’s Indian Arts in Flagstaff, where she formed lasting memories and connections. Later in life, she worked as a cashier at Walmart, showing remarkable strength and dedication as she continued working through her first round of chemotherapy.

Barbara had a deep love for animals and especially enjoyed raising hairless terriers. During her middle adult years, she raised many small farm animals and even showed dairy goats. She was happiest being outdoors caring for her animals, tending to her flower garden, and soaking in the simple beauty of nature.

Outside of work, Barbara also enjoyed spending weekends at craft fairs with her daughter Melanie and collecting figurines, especially Bugs Bunny. Her favorite flower, the blue rose, reflected her unique and gentle spirit.

Barbara will be remembered for her resilience, her love of family, and the quiet ways she brought beauty into the lives of those around her. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.