Barbara Lee Durham

Barbara Durham of Opelousas, Louisiana, passed away on April 20, 2024, at the age of 77 at Opelousas General Health System in Opelousas, LA.  She was born on July 20, 1946, in New Orleans, Louisiana.  She was preceded in death by her husband, David Roy Durham of 45 years; parents, James Farrell, Sr. and Hilda Vallery Farrell; as well as several siblings.  

Barbara is survived by her son, Carlo (“Joey”) Joseph Moran, Jr.; step-son, Michael Herman Durham and wife, Margie; step-grandson, Christopher Durham and wife, Morgan; step-great granddaughter, Olivia Durham; as well as sister, Cynthia Brown and husband, Jim; sister, Jean Harvison and husband, Donald; brother, Bobby Farrell and wife, Betty; brother, Tommy Farrell and wife, Marilyn; nephew, Dustin Brown and wife, Sarah; great nephews, Connor Brown and Collin Brown; and great nieces, Lydia Brown and Faith Brown. 

Barbara graduated from Hahnville High School in Hahnville, Louisiana.  She spent most of her time studying while her siblings were playing as she enjoyed learning.  Barbara began her career working in the insurance industry for many years.  When Barbara and Dave got married, she transitioned to the accounting industry as Dave was a tax accountant.  Together they built a successful tax accounting practice of Durham & Durham in Harvey, Louisiana. Barbara and Dave always lived on the Westbank of New Orleans.  They loved the Westbank so much; they stayed during Katrina to protect the life they always knew. Upon retirement, they moved to Opelousas to be close to Barbara’s family in 2008.  Barbara became an active member of the Opelousas community throughout the years.  She was a member of the American Legion Post 344 Ladies’ Auxiliary of Port Barre.  Barbara also was an active member of her church, Christian Life Center in Opelousas over the years.  For a few years, Barbara decided to work part-time as a Hostess at the Sibille Funeral Homes.

Barbara and Dave loved to travel by motorhome to visit towns, parks, and racetracks in the deep south and southeast of US.  They would attend NASCAR races by camping in the infield circle.  Along the way, they would seek out country music museums as Barbara loved country music.  Barbara loved finding new restaurants off the beaten path when traveling and at home.  A few times, Barbara and Dave became adventurous and decided to venture out of their usual destinations and went to New York City.  Barbara supported Dave’s passion for NASCAR so much that she did a ride along in a racecar at racetrack speeds.    When Barbara and Dave weren’t on the road, they were rebuilding Volkswagens.  Their pride and joy was “The Thing” as they won awards at restoration competitions.   Barbara’s nickname around the circuit was “Buggin Barb.”

One of Barbara’s hobbies was being a collector over the years.  She collected a variety of themes from time to time.  As mentioned earlier, Barbara loved country music and her lifelong singer love was Conway Twitty.  She actually was able to take a picture with him years ago and collected all of his albums.  As years went on, Barbara developed a love for frogs and owls.  Her more recent passion was for angels.  Since Dave passed away, Barbara loved angel wings specifically.  

Barbara loved to shop, especially for clothes, shoes, purses, and jewelry.  Barbara’s happy place in later years was to be out shopping with Cynthia looking for that great sale. For those that knew Barbara, they would always comment on the great style of her outfits. 

Very loving, kind-hearted, caring, and spiritual, Barbara has found peace and joy as she was reunited with her husband, Dave in heaven, as well as found her angel wings to fly around to be with other loved ones in heaven and look upon loved ones here on earth.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, May 17, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Christian Life Center, 2892 South Union Street, Opelousas, LA, with Rev. Benny Reppond officiating.  There will be a Memorial gathering of family and friends celebrating Barbara’s legacy at 10:00 a.m. in the church prior to the memorial service.

Family and friends are invited to visit our website at www.lafondardoin.com.

LaFond-Ardoin Funeral Home of Opelousas, 2845 South Union Street, Opelousas, LA 70570, (337) 942-2638, has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.