Barbara Capps

Noted artist, Barbara Ann Capps, died September 28th at her home in Christiansburg. Daughter of Blanche (Chafin) & Byron Capps, she was born June 15th, 1932, in Anchorage, Alaska, where she lived until her father died in 1936. She’s preceded in death by her mother, Blanche Capps; her sister, “Dodie” Simmons; & by her infant sister, Anastasia Barbara Capps, who died in Seward, Alaska.

Barbara is survived by her daughter Terri (Owen) & son-in-law, Bob Ireland; granddaughter, Rhea “Liz” Ireland; brother-in-law Carlyle Simmons; nephews & nieces Steve, Gina, Emily Simmons; Kathie, Mitchell, Laura Matney; & David Simmons; her extended Chafin family; and over a thousand art students she has trained.

After growing up in Christiansburg, Barbara lived in California 23 years where she taught art, owned art galleries, & created illustrations for Carnation used world-wide.

In 1986, she returned to her roots in Christiansburg with a mission, “A Community needs live artists and continuing art activity. My intent is to bring about a merging of the arts for women, both visual and performing, resulting in an appreciation and understanding of the talents in this area”.

She set up a studio and pursued her passion for teaching visual arts in multiple mediums and styles. Her work is internationally acclaimed and her paintings are proudly displayed throughout the United States and in several countries.

In lieu of flowers, anyone wishing to make a memorial gift please donate in Barbara’s name to support the Montgomery Museum & Lewis Miller Regional Art Center, 300 Pepper Street SE, Christiansburg, Virginia, 24073.

Her memorial service will be on Sunday, 7 October, 2pm, at St Paul United Methodist Church, 220 W. Main Street, Christiansburg, VA