Barbara Ellen Fraley

Barbara Ellen (Everhart) Fraley, 87 of Scottsdale, AZ, went to be with the Lord on September 10, 2025. Barbara was born on April 27, 1938, in Montgomery County, OH. She grew up in Hollansburg, OH and graduated from Westmont High School. Barbara lived a vibrant life marked by her faith, generosity, and love of people.

Barbara married her beloved husband, Robert Reece Fraley on her birthday in 1957, beginning a marriage of 68 years. Together they raised three sons and in 1969, opened their hearts and home to six orphaned children whose parents were killed in an automobile accident, becoming their legal guardians.

Barbara was a woman of boundless energy and enthusiasm. She had a magnetic personality that drew people to her. Her commitment to helping others was often on display. She was an encourager and an inspiration to many, and she gave in ways most people will never know.

Barbara had the gift of hospitality and used that gift to entertain people in her home often for meals and Bible studies as well as throwing grand outdoor luaus, and other themed parties for more than 100 guests, creating cherished memories with her warmth and flair for fun. A talented cook, Barbara’s kitchen was often a hub of activity, producing great food, nourishing body and soul.

A natural athlete, Barbara enjoyed golf, bowling, swimming and tennis. She also loved attending her children and grandchildren’s’ sporting events. In 1974, Barbara and her husband were instrumental in founding Paradise Valley Christian School (now Paradise Valley Christian Preparatory) in Phoenix, leaving a lasting impact on Christian education. In 2000, she, along with her husband, spearheaded the acquisition, extensive renovation and interior design of the former public-school building in Palestine, OH, opening the Golden Eagle Christian Center which hosts group retreats and community events. In 2013, it was Barbara’s heart to open Mom’s Pantry Community Food Bank in Phoenix which is projected to feed 83,000 people this year. Her legacy of kindness and service touched countless lives.

Almost 40 years ago, Multiple Sclerosis began to gradually diminish her ability to walk and do the things she so desired to do. Notwithstanding, she continued to organize and orchestrate dozens of family and school reunions, surprise parties, holiday gatherings and celebratory family trips.

Barbara is survived by her husband, Robert Fraley, three biological sons, Perry (Teresa), Greg (Gina) and Michael (Heather), Guardian children Marilyn Parks (David), Larry Mitchell (Susan), Brenda Allison (Claude), Mary Mitchell, Andrea VanHofwegen (Robert), Alice O’Shell (Shawn), 20 grandchildren and 46 great grandchildren, all of whom she deeply cherished. She is also survived by her sister Mary (Everhart) Prether, her brother Tom Everhart and her sister in-law, Joyce Everhart along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Orville (Bob) and Beulah Everhart and her brother Jim Everhart, as well as her sister in-law Becky Everhart, great grandchildren Reese Fraley and Arie and Hadilyn VanHofwegen. Her family and friends will long remember her vibrant spirit, humor, quick wit and the love she poured into each of them.

A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held at Scottsdale Worship Center in Scottsdale, AZ on Thursday, September 18, 2025. Visitation is at 1 PM followed by a service at 3 PM. In addition, there will be a second celebration in Palestine, Ohio at the Golden Eagle Christian Center September 21, 2025 at 2:30 to 5:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Mom’s Pantry Community Food Bank in her honor. momspantryphoenix.org

Tribute Funeral Homes and Hansen Mortuaries & Cemetery are serving Barbara's family. 

Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.tributefuneralhomes.com.