Barbara Jean Drager

Mrs. Barbara Jean Drager, age 84, of Temperance, Michigan, passed away peacefully on January 29, 2025, surrounded by love at Hampton Manor in Lambertville.

Born on April 21, 1940, in Columbiana, Ohio, Barb was the beloved daughter of Muriel and Eugene Crawford, who owned the local grocery store, Crawford’s Market. Growing up, Barb and her sister Elizabeth often helped out at the store, unpacking crates of bananas or helping their dad wrap meat for customers. These small, simple acts planted the seeds for Barb’s lifelong care and thoughtfulness toward others.

After graduating from Columbiana High School, Barb continued her studies at Kent State University. Her journey eventually brought her to Toledo, where fate intervened in the form of a blind date with a charming young man named Bob. Bob was smitten from the start; Barb took a little convincing. But six months later, in July 1963, they were married, beginning a beautiful 61-year partnership.

Together, Barb and Bob built a life full of love, adventure, and shared passions. From traveling to raising a family, to their mutual appreciation for the arts, the two were truly inseparable. They spent countless evenings enjoying the symphony or attending plays, often at the Masonic Auditorium. Barb’s creative spirit was always on display—she had a knack for crocheting, knitting, and crafting thoughtful gifts that brought joy to those around her.

Barb loved the simple pleasures of life: daily walks, stopping to chat with neighbors, and spending time with her beloved dogs. Her deep love for animals became one of her trademarks—so much so that saving spiders became part of her lore. As her family would say with a smile, “Well, that’s Barb for you!”.

But nothing brought Barb more joy than spending time with her grandchildren. She adored them, and they knew it. Whether she was hosting sleepovers, cheering from the sidelines at their sporting events, or beaming with pride at a dance recital, she never missed a moment. Watching them grow was one of her greatest joys, and she treasured every second.

Her kitchen was another extension of her heart. Barb delighted in preparing meals for family and friends, and her famous Mississippi Mud Cake and Nana’s ham loaf became cherished traditions. She had an uncanny talent for finding the perfect card or gift, always celebrating the people in her life with heartfelt attention. No recital, graduation, or wedding was ever too far for her to attend—she made sure her presence was a constant source of love and support.

Barbara is survived by her devoted husband, Robert Drager; her children, Tracy (Frank) Pizza and Stephen (Debra) Drager; her grandchildren, Keegan Drager, Dominic Pizza, and Grace Pizza; and her sister, Elizabeth (Edward) Robinson; nephew David (Allie) Robinson, niece Kelly (Jon) Saxton and their families.

Barb’s warmth, generosity, and vibrant spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of love, creativity, and kindness will live on through the countless lives she touched.

We invite you to join us in celebrating Barbara’s life on February 15, 2025. Visitation will be held from 10 AM to 12 PM at Walker Funeral Home (5155 W Sylvania Ave, Toledo, OH 43623), followed by a short prayer service. We’d love for you to come and share memories with us.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Barbara’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org) or Hospice of Lenawee County (www.hospiceoflenawee.org). We sincerely thank Dr. Katie Machanda, the dedicated staff at Hampton Manor, and Hospice of Lenawee for their outstanding care and support throughout this journey.