Barbara Ann Dumire

November 19, 1937 - April 24, 2024

Barbara had a talent and passion with sewing, working in alterations for JC Penney’s before eventually opening her own seamstress shop. She was lovingly known as an incredibly talented seamstress, crafting wedding dresses, gowns, and drapes. Barbara was also a member of Ott’s Chapel Sunday School, where her kindness touched the lives of many. In her free time, she enjoyed horseback riding (Western Leisure style), cooking and canning. Barbara was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, finding joy in the company of her family and cherishing every moment spent with them. Her legacy of love, creativity and bravery will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Barbara is survived by her daughters: Ella Jane Dumire, and Mary E. Engel (partner, Richard Walls); son, Henry Dumire (Mary Jo); grandchildren: Kelly Bonnes, Fred Higgins, Kaitlyn Rodriguez, Dorothy Callaway, John Harris, Wade Dumire, Blaine Dumire, Charles Dumire Jr.; great-grandchildren: Jorden Warrington, Darren Higgins, Mia Rodriguez, Aurora Nichols, Alanna Nichols, Aiden Vinyard; sister, Beverly Biederman, and brothers: John W. Burns, Jr. and Robert F. Burns.

In addition to her parents, Barbara was preceded in death by her husband Wade Everett Dumire; son, Charles Wade Dumire; sister, Ella Jane Burns; and brother, George Burns.

Graveside service for Barbara will be held privately and at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Barbara’s name may be made payable to “Compassionate Care Hospice” sent in care of R.T. Foard & Jones, Inc., 122 W. Main Street, Newark, DE 19711.

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Barbara Ann Dumire, age 86, of Bear, DE passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. She was born in Newark, DE on November 19, 1937, to the late John Wesley Burns Sr. and Dorothy Mae (Frazer) Burns. Barbara had a talent and passion with sewing, working in alterations for JC Penney’s before eventually openingContinue Reading

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My thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Barbara. I worked with Barbara at JCPenney in the men's suit department, she was a sweet, kind, loving, and giving person. I have fond memories of our talks together on just about everything. May you all find peace and comfort in the loving memories that you shared with her. Forever in my prayers, Katherine.

I am so sorry for your loss your mom was a wonderful loving person. My mother thought the world of her. Lots of love and prayers for you all

Dumire family: Please accept my deepest sympathy to hear of Barbara’s passing. A beautiful, caring, talented person. I was a JCP associate (I was in children’s department)and made it a point to say hello to Barbara and the ladies in alterations department just about every morning before the store opened. One morning I went to see Barbara to borrow a needle and thread. As she was gathering my request she noticed I still had my coat on. So I told her as I was bending over to stock a shelf the inseam of my pants ripped. Next thing I knew she gave me a robe to put on and she had my pants on her sewing machine patching them up! She also came to the rescue (came to my house) to alter my daughter’s wedding dress. I will be keeping Barbara in my thoughts and prayers.

Dumire and Burns Family, So sorry to hear of Barbara’s passing. Lots of memories from when I was growing up and visiting Barbara and her parents on Welsh Tract Road. Sending prayers at this most difficult time. Johnny

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.