Barbara Jean Sleeper
Barbara Jean Sleeper, age 82, of Vermontville, MI, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, June 4, 2025.
Barbara was born on April 11, 1943, in Lansing, MI, to Robert and Patricia Shassberger. She graduated from Lansing Eastern High School in 1961 and went on to earn her teaching degree from Michigan State University in 1965. She later received her Master’s degree in Special Education from Western Michigan University. On September 12, 1964, she married the love of her life, LeRoy Sleeper. They shared 50 wonderful years together before LeRoy’s passing in 2014.
Barbara was saved in 1972, a moment that shaped the rest of her life. She had a heart for serving others and a deep love for her family, her faith, and her community.
She began her working life at the D&C 5-and-dime store and later worked at Lansing General Hospital caring for employees’ children alongside her best friend Cheryl. Her greatest professional joy, however, came from her years as a Home Economics teacher at Maple Valley Schools, where she lovingly taught generations of students, including several of her own children. Of all her years in education, these were among her most cherished. Barbara had a special bond with her students and stayed in touch with many of them throughout her life.
After earning her Master’s degree, Barbara went on to teach at Portland Middle School, where she continued her work in special education. She retired from Portland, holding fond memories of the strong connections she formed with students and families there as well. Her dedication and compassion left a lasting impression on everyone she taught.
Barbara was talented and creative, she learned to sew at a young age and even made her own wedding gown. She loved cooking and sharing recipes, and her kitchen was always a warm and welcoming place. She had a deep appreciation for nature, especially watching birds, and she delighted in keeping family and friends informed of every springtime milestone from the first robin sighting to the blooming of wildflowers. She loved reading, gardening, and most of all, spending time with her children and grandchildren. Her faith was her foundation, and she often reflected on the promise of eternal life, once writing: “Death is not the end, something better is waiting for us.”
She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a proud grandmother. Barbara is survived by her six children: Jeff (Kelly) children: Ava and Max; Brian, children: Anna, Gordie; Joshua (Christy) children: Alaina, Caleb, and Tyler; Leah (Dennis) child: Kalel; Bethany (Lonnie) children: Charlotte and Faith; and Michael.
Her legacy of love, faith, and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. If desired donations may be left to the family.