Barbara C. Ham, Castro Valley
1943 – 2019
Born in Oakland, raised in Castro Valley, she was an Irish step-dancing state champion. After high school she joined the Carmelite Sisters of Charity for 30 years. Her vocation took her to Spain, Latin America, Castro Valley (as a teacher at our Lady of Grace), Italy, and D.C. She was a teacher, spiritual director, and an advocate for the poor, refugees, and immigrants. She had degrees in Education, Divinity, and Counseling. She left her order to take care of her two parents who both developed dementia. For about 15 years Barbara was a bilingual drug and alcohol abuse counselor for San Mateo county, while also enjoying hikes, travel, her cats, and Starbucks. She was a devoted daughter, cousin, friend, neighbor, and wise spiritual director. Now her life's adventures are done and she can complete her journey to be with her God in Heaven.
A funeral mass will be held July 31st 11am at Our Lady of Grace, Castro Valley.
Barbara was a great friend to the Songey family. We have shared many good times together. I can still hear her saying to my mom”praise the Lord Marie just Praise the Lord”. She will be missed.
Barbara was the kindest,most loving, accepting, empathetic, caring, charitable, gentle, gracious, friendly, thoughtful, understanding, good hearted , good natured, good humored person I have ever had the blessing to have in my life. She honored me by calling me her "pesty" little sister.. Too Much? Naw, I don't think so at all.
God Bless us and watch over us...big sister.
I knew Barbara many years ago in Washington, DC. We protested on behalf of the Salvadoran people who were suffering terribly. Early in the morning we were on the bridge leading into DC with our signs.... I remember Barbara’s dedication, compassion, and wonderful laughter.
