Obituary of BARBARA LUCILLE HALLADAY MAHONEY

Barbara was born October 7, 1931 and grew up in the Los Angeles area of Southern California. A graduate of the Interior Design program at Woodbury College, Barbara worked for furniture and design firms in Los Angeles and Tucson prior to moving to Berkeley while her husband, Albert Mahoney, attended college. Upon leaving Berkeley, Barbara and Al returned to Southern California where their son, Howard, and daughter, Gayle, were born. Barbara never returned to full time work in design but focused on her art and political activities with the Democratic Party. Barbara’s political activities included serving in several positions with her local Democratic Club as well as running regional campaign offices and organizational efforts for Robert Kennedy, John Tunny, Herb Hafif and Jesse Unruh. She was additionally active in efforts to pass the 26th Amendment and supporting the United Farm Workers. After moving to Northern California, Barbara committed herself to volunteering with the local school district and was co-founder of the Carmichael Artist’s League. She also developed an interest in genealogy, widely collaborating on the lineage of several related families: the Yankees, Fraleys and Welches. Barbara is survived by her son and daughter. Our mother was not one to shy away from controversy and in that spirit, in lieu of gifts or flowers, please honor her by taking action to alter the current immigration policies of our country. In explanation, during her final years Barbara lost interest in the news and politics with the single exception of topics concerning immigration. Her father illegally immigrated from Poland and became a US citizen while fighting in World War I. Additionally, Barbara was deeply affronted at age 10 when several classmates of Japanese descent and their families were sent to internment camps. This was a defining moment for her. We are asking that you, at a minimum, encourage your representatives to pursue a true bilateral resolution to immigration and permanent status for the Dreamers. Many of you may take additional actions. As you contact representatives, protest, or are involved in the local community, know that her spirit is with you.