Barbara Ann Card, PhD November 5, 1939 – March 6, 2026

Barbara Ann Card, born Barbara Ann Brazel, passed away on March 6, 2026, at the age of 86.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Barbara lived a life marked by deep faith, compassion, intelligence, courage, and creativity. A devout Catholic, she carried those qualities into every part of her life. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Robert Holway and Francis Card.

Barbara was the loving mother of Constance VanSkike, Lee Holway, Thomas Holway, and Holly Holway. She is also survived by eleven grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren, with loved ones gone before her now held in God’s care.

Over the years, Barbara made her home in Denver, Rapid City, Timber Lake, Escondido, Aptos, Monterey, Carmel, and Palm Desert. She devoted her professional life to counseling, education, and advocacy, building a long and meaningful career as an addiction and family therapist. Through her private practice and many professional roles, she offered guidance, care, and steadfast support to individuals and families in both California and South Dakota.

Barbara also shared her knowledge as an instructor of psychology and sociology at California State University, San Bernardino, and College of the Desert. In addition, she served in clinical, supervisory, training, consulting, and program leadership roles throughout her career. Her work included service to Native communities in South Dakota, including Eagle Butte, Standing Rock, and Pine Ridge, where she supported those seeking sobriety, recovery, and hope. She also served on state boards involved in the licensure and continuing certification of counseling professionals and held certifications as an Internationally Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor II.

Barbara had a rare gift for listening and a deep commitment to helping others. She was especially passionate about advocating for children affected by family dysfunction and worked closely with families, judges, and recovery centers to help people find healing and a second chance.

In addition to her professional work, Barbara’s great artistic passion was stained glass. Through her glasswork, she created enduring beauty that reflected both her remarkable skill and her spirit. Her work remains part of her legacy in many of the communities where she lived.

Barbara will be remembered for her fierce compassion, sharp wit, generous spirit, and unwavering willingness to show up for others. She leaves behind family and friends who loved her deeply and will miss her very much.

A small memorial gathering is being planned for the last Saturday in May. More details will be shared as plans are finalized.