Barbara J. “Barbie” Ring-McDermott, age 71, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on June 24, 2023, at home while surrounded by her loving family. To honor Barb’s life, a private family service is being held. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Barb’s family.

Barb was born on March 6, 1952, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Robert and Virginia (Hubbard) Motch. She had a zest for life from a young age and spent her entire 71 years among us making the most of each day and finding joy wherever possible. Barb spent her working years as a waitress primarily and enjoyed over 26 years faithful years with her friends and 2nd family at the Shot Tower Inn. I her free-time, if she could be outdoors on a perfectly sunny day, all was well with the world. Her flower gardens were meticulously tended to and if there was time to relax in the lawn chair and simply soak up a few rays, Barb would consider all of it a successful afternoon. She was also a gifted artist who enjoyed painting murals and drawing, as well as sitting down at her craft table to work on her next unique creation. Barb’s was always up for a little Tina Turner or Cher playing in the background and only to be surrounded by family and friends could her day get even better. She was a naturally inclined social spirit who thrived on being around others and hopefully bringing a little light into their day along the way. We will miss Barb and her beautiful smile moving forward, but will always treasure each and every memory which she leaves behind. Thank you, Barb, for being such a simply wonderful woman and may the Lord bless you and keep you in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Barb include,

her three children,

Stacy Rose McDermott, Dubuque, IA,

Robert “Bob” Michael (Katie) McDermott, Asbury, IA,

and Matthew James (Regina) McDermott, LaCrosse, WI;

her grandchildren,

Chloe McDermott, Dalton McDermott, and Morgan McDowell;

her great-granddaughter, Aurora Rose McDowell;

her siblings,

Danny Ring, Leisure Lake, IA,

and Linda (Don) Slattery, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and relatives.

Barb was preceded in death by her mother, Virginia Motch; step-father, Herman Motch; and her siblings, Randy (Sandy) Ring, Wayne Ring, and Sue Ring.

Barb’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with Barb’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com