Barbara Ann Herber, 81, of Upper Marlboro passed away December 13, 2016 at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis. She was born November 10, 1935 in Washington, D.C. to Martin Joseph and Annabelle (Goldsmith) Thornton. She was raised in D.C and graduated from St. Cecelia High School. Barbara was employed with the Federal Aviation Administration for many years as a writer and editor, until her retirement. She was a resident of Upper Marlboro for 46 years. Barbara was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Upper Marlboro. She enjoyed dancing, animals, and traveling and spending time with her family and friends.

Barbara is survived by children Richard L. Herber and wife Diane of Hagerstown, Mary K. Davis of Dunkirk, Stephen C. Herber and wife Lisa of St. Leonard, and Barbara Downs and husband Jeff of Hughesville. Also surviving are her significant other Gary Richie, six grandchildren, one great-grandson, sisters Mary E. Vallario of Upper Marlboro, and Martina J. Fowler of Dunkirk, and Barbara’s Chihuahua Rocky. She was preceded in death by sisters Kathleen Thornton and Cecelia A. Jewell.