Barbara S. Kobs, 100, of Madison, died after a brief illness on June 22 at Middlesex Hospital, surrounded by her family. She was the widow of Erwin F. Kobs, celebrating 72 years of marriage. She was born on March 3, 1914, in Meriden, daughter of Arthur C. and Henrietta Langdon Smith.

Barbara worked part-time in the Meriden school system as a secretary before moving to Madison in 1965. She was one of the originators of St. Andrew’s Thrift Shop and was a member of the Madison Winter Club. During her life, Barbara found a special place in the hearts of everyone who met her.

She is survived by her son, Donald (Nancy) Kobs of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and her daughter, Carol K. Sturges of Killingworth; and grandchildren Deborah (Lou) Kline, Sarah (Neal) Shore, Betsy (Rob) Wadsworth, Jeffrey (Marsha) Sturges, and Melissa (John) Kappus. She is also survived by seven great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Abby Kline, Ryan and Cali Wadsworth, Eliza and Cole Sturges, and John Henry Kappus, as well as several nieces and nephews. She was also predeceased by her sister Betty Smith Calkins.

A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at a later date at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Madison. The Hawley Lincoln Memorial, Guilford, is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to St. Andrew’s Church, Madison, or Middlesex Hospital Hospice. To sign the online guestbook, please visit hawleylincolnmemorial.com.