Age 83, Luray, Va.
Barbara Dee Espenhorst, 83, of Luray, Virginia, died peacefully at the Life Care Center in New Market on Sunday, May 4, 2025.
Barbara was born on August 30, 1941, in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Her parents were Frank and Beulah Dee.
She was the beloved wife of Henry Espenhorst, and they were married for 55 years.
Barbara lived in New Jersey most of her life, but relocated to Luray, Virginia, in the early 1990s. Barbara and Henry owned and operated The Barn at Elbow Landing.
For many years Barbara was a full-time substitute at Page County High School and was affectionately called “Mrs. Jolly Rancher!”
She was an active member of the Manor Memorial Church in New Market and a volunteer at the Life Care Center in New Market.
Surviving are two children: daughter Kristin Lute and husband Robert Lute of New Market, Virginia, and son Karl Espenhorst and wife Jacque Espenhorst of Hamilton, New Jersey. Also surviving are four grandchildren: Rachel Lute and Andrew Lute, both of New Market, Virginia, Benjamin Espenhorst and wife Julianne of Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, and Kelsey Espenhorst of Hamilton, New Jersey.
Barbara never knew a stranger. Her hospitality was unmatched and her love for her family and her Savior Jesus Christ was evident in all she did.
She will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts.
A Celebration of Life will occur at the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Wrightstown, New Jersey.
Arrangements are being handled by The Bradley Funeral Home in Luray, Va.
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