Barbara Frank

Barbara "Bobbie" F. Frank, 91, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2026, leaving behind a profound legacy of public service, community dedication, and deep devotion to her family.

Bobbie shared almost fifty years of marriage with her beloved husband, Colonel Winfield C. Frank, U.S. Army (Ret.), a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Class of 1956.  Together, they built a life centered on integrity, service, family, and lasting friendships.  Win preceded her death in 2006.

Bobbie is survived by her children, Steven Frank, Susan Gwozdz (Joseph), and Elizabeth Ward (James).  She was the proud grandmother of Jesse Godby and Jennifer Crowder (Bradley), and lovingly embraced her step-granddaughters, Kate Phelps (Ben) and Rachel Gwozdz.  One of Bobbie's greatest joys was becoming a great-grandmother to Willow Crowder, whose arrival brought her immeasurable happiness.

For decades, Bobbie was one of the guiding forces behind the Town of Occoquan, Virginia.  She served for many years on the Occoquan Town Council and was widely celebrated as the longtime director of the town's nationally recognized Arts & Crafts Shows.  Her vision, organizational talent, and welcoming spirit helped transform the festival into one of Northern Virginia's premier events. Bobbie also dedicated her time to the town's Architectural Review Board, the Occoquan Historical Society Board, the Occoquan Bicentennial Committee, and the Beautification Committee.  Through her visionary leadership and volunteerism, she helped preserve Occoquan's historic charm while fostering a vibrant community for generations of residents and visitors to enjoy.  Outside of her service in Occoquan, she was an accomplished cook and gardener.  She lent her time and talents to other local organizations including the Woodbridge Women's Club, Triangle Trowel Garden Club, the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, and Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church, among may others.

Bobbie's legacy endures in the historic town she helped shape, the civic organizations she strengthened, and most importantly, in the family she loved.

A celebration of Bobbie's life, and her subsequent interment services at Arlington National Cemetery, will be announced by her family at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to organizations supporting historic preservation, community beautification, or other charitable causes that reflect her lifelong commitment to serving others.