Barbara Leach

Barbara J. Leach of Carmel, Indiana, passed away in the comfort of her home on April 23, 2026, at the age of 79. She was the daughter of Carl P. Bear.

Barb retired from Carmel Clay Schools and was a dedicated member of First Baptist Church in Carmel. She was actively involved in her community, including past membership in Tri-Kappa of Danville, Indiana (Epsilon Mu chapter), Indiana Federation of Business & Professional Women, The Garden Club of Indiana in Carmel, the Indianapolis Zoo Guild, and the Carmel Symphony Orchestra Women’s Association.

Her greatest privilege was volunteering at St. Vincent Hospice, where she offered compassion, support, and loving care to patients and their families. She often shared stories of the lives that touched her so deeply. Through her faith, gentle presence, and quiet acts of kindness, she brought comfort in meaningful ways—from tending to patients’ hair when they no longer could, to helping them relax with soothing essential oils. She was truly a light in the lives of those she served in their final days.

Barb loved gardening and Bible study, and reaffirmed the importance of faith, hope, optimism, and joy. She lived a truly grateful life, cherishing her close friends and the beauty of nature--the morning sun, the color of flowers, and the songs of birds. Above all, she was a devoted wife, mother, and nana who treasured her family.

Russ’s devotion to Barb throughout this illness is a profound testament to his love. He consistently placed her comfort above all else. That same love will remain an enduring part of her story.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful home health caregivers and hospice team who cared for Barb with such compassion, dignity, and kindness. Your gentle presence and unwavering support brought comfort not only to her, but to all who loved her.

Barb is survived by her beloved husband of nearly 40 years, Russell K. Leach; her children, Nick Webb (Jodi) of Westfield, IN; Shane Webb (Sherri) of Galena, OH; Jennifer Stock (Tyler) of Nashville, TN; Tammy McDugle (Jon) of Danville, IN; and Bryan Leach (Jennifer) of Amo, IN; her grandchildren, Katie Webb and Carlton Webb, Chad McDugle (Laura), Jessie McDugle, Taylor Leach, Damon Leach, Dylan Leach, Jaclynn Hutte; her great-grandchildren Callan McDugle and Mirren McDugle.

A private burial will take place at a Flanner Buchanan Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Research and Prevention Foundation or Cure Alzheimer's Fund..