Mrs. Barbara Jo De Grand

Mrs. Barbara Jo “B.J.” De Grand died peacefully in her home surrounded by family on April 30, 2023.  Born July 18, 1946, Mrs. De Grand grew up in Atherton, CA and attended San Diego State University, where she earned her undergraduate degree.  After college, Mrs. De Grand became a flight attendant for Saturn Airlines, serving on charter flights for the US military to Southeast Asia.  One evening in Japan she was approached by a young fighter pilot who asked “Didn’t you take me to Vietnam?”, and by all accounts it was love at first sight.  Soon after they were married and started a family, all while traveling the world courtesy of the US Air Force.  Mrs. De Grand was a connoisseur of fine food and fashion.  She enjoyed playing bridge, sewing, traveling, antiquing and spending time with friends and family.  B.J. was ever-thoughtful of others, never forgetting a birthday, anniversary or holiday.

B.J. is survived by her husband of 51 years, James, sister Jeannie Meyer and her husband Jerry of Loomis, CA, son Alec and his wife Jade of Boston, MA, son Matt and his wife Laurie of Norfolk, VA and grandchildren Nate, Maura, Ezra, Margo and Ellis.  The De Grand family expresses their gratitude to the exceptional care team at Nurse Next Door for their dedication and compassion over the past 12 months.  They also thank Amedisys Hospice for their care over the past few months.  

A memorial service will be held on May 4, 2023 at 10:00AM at Bucktrout Funeral Service, 4124 Ironbound Rd, Williamsburg, VA.  An interment at Arlington National Cemetery is planned for the summer.  In lieu of flowers, a donation in B.J.’s memory to the non-profit of your choice is requested.