Barbara Gene Mast

Barbara Gene Mast, age 89, of Bear, Delaware passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 in the presence of loved ones. Born in Mullens, West Virginia, on October 10, 1936, she was the daughter of the late Zack C. and Minnie M. Lawson. She adored her hometown and held deep pride in being a West Virginian. After graduating from Mullens High School in 1954, Barbara moved to Washington DC, where she worked as a clerk for the FBI. She later moved to Delaware, where she was employed at West Virginia Pulp & Paper and Avon Products. She had an incredible work ethic, always working full-time while raising her three children and maintaining a meticulous household. Throughout her life, Barbara enjoyed ceramics, dancing (specifically the jitterbug), gardening, going to the beach, making family photo albums, and a hot cup of tea. But most of all, she loved caring for her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a fixture at all family events, always with her large video camera in tow. After retirement, Barbara and her husband, Elhanan traveled the country in their RV, with New England being a favorite destination for fresh lobster rolls. They hosted countless family gatherings, always opening their home to everyone for holidays, birthdays, and more. Barbara and El were devoted followers of Christ, and frequently attended Cornerstone United Methodist Church in Bear, Delaware. All who knew Barbara will remember her most for her generous spirit and kind heart. She was relentless in her pursuit to spoil her grandchildren and great-grandchildren in any way she saw fit. Nothing brought her more joy than helping and caring for others. Barbara leaves behind a large blended family, including her daughters, Anita Kuestner (Don) and Catherine Taylor (Gregg); son, Gary Smith (Cindy); step-daughters, Denise Emory (Gene), and Darcel Lowman; step-daughter in-law, Patricia Mast; niece, Sherrie Watson; nephew, Derek Watson; 19 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and 2 great great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Zack C. Lawson and Minnie M. Lawson; her loving husband of over 42 years, Elhanan B. Mast; sister, Rita K. Watson; step-son, Dean E. Mast, Sr.; grandchildren, Nicole Cook and Donny Smith; and great-grandson Arsenius Peck. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Thursday, March 5, 2026 from 10 to 11 AM at Christ the Cornerstone Church, 3135 Summit Bridge Rd. Bear, DE 19701. A service in celebration of her life will begin at 11 AM. Burial will take place immediately following the service at Delaware Veteran Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Rd., Bear, DE 19701. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Barbara’s honor to the American Cancer Society. For directions or to send an online condolence, please visit www.stranofeeley.com. Strano & Feeley Family Funeral Home 302-731-5459

Barbara Gene Mast

October 10, 1936 - February 11, 2026

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