Barbara Anne Nilsen, lovingly known as “Barbie,” was born on March 12, 1954, in Portland and passed away on May 15, 2026, at the age of 72 in Huntington. Those who knew her knew you could call her Barbara or Barbie — but never “Barb.” She was quick to correct anyone who called her that, and she always made it clear that Barbie suited her best.

Barbie most recently resided in Huntington after spending nearly 20 years living in Florida. As her health began to decline, she made the decision to return to Indiana to be closer to the people she loved most.

Barbie’s greatest pride and joy in life were her daughters, Mindy and April. She had a deep love for her family, especially her grandchildren, who lovingly knew her as “Nana.” She also adored her beloved dogs — especially Sammy and Jake — and cared for her many plants like family. Barbie was incredibly creative and artistic. She loved crafting, crocheting, and creating beautiful things, and her creativity continues to live on through her daughters.

Barbie also had a love for traveling and spent many years working for herself as a flea market vendor, something she truly enjoyed. She loved meeting new people and had a kind and welcoming way about her that made others feel comfortable instantly.

Barbie loved older country music, reality television, and relaxing with her favorite shows. While she enjoyed shows like Survivor and Big Brother, nothing compared to her devotion to Days of Our Lives, which she faithfully watched for over 40 years.

Barbie was a true night owl who preferred staying up late into the night rather than waking early in the morning. But whenever she did start her day, one thing was certain — she always had a hot cup of Lipton tea in her hands, a simple comfort that became one of the many things her family will always remember about her.

One of Barbie’s greatest joys in recent years was finally getting to go on a cruise, something she had always dreamed of doing. Sharing that special trip with her sister Betty, brother-in-law Bud, and niece Brandi created memories she treasured deeply and spoke about often.

Barbie shared a special bond with her sisters, Betty Teer and Cindy Dudgeon, who remained an important part of her life throughout the years. Her family, especially her daughters, are deeply grateful for the unwavering love, care, and compassion Cindy showed Barbie during her final chapter of life. Cindy stood faithfully by Barbie’s side as both a sister and caregiver, offering comfort, strength, and support during the moments when it was needed most.

Barbie shared a lifelong connection with her husband, Don Nilsen, who preceded her in death. Although they spent many years living apart, she continued to hold Don close to her heart and lovingly referred to him as her husband until the very end.

During her final days, Barbie found comfort in her faith and spoke openly about being ready to be with the Lord. She found peace in spending time with loved ones, sharing stories, and giving treasured belongings to family and friends she cared about deeply.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Mindy McNally (Aaron) and April Moellering (Jon); her beloved grandchildren Cameron Kamdar, Tyler McNally, Lily Kamdar, Peyton McNally, Madilynn McNally, and Olivia McNally; her sisters, Betty Teer (Bud) and Cindy Dudgeon; along with many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles Fifer and Shirley Fifer; her brother, Chuck Fifer; and her husband, Don Nilsen.

Barbie’s memory will live on through every cup of hot tea, late-night conversation, country song, and cherished family memory shared by those who loved her most.

Visitation will be held on Thursday from 4-7 p.m. at Williamson-Spencer and Penrod Funeral Home in Portland. Funeral services will follow at 7 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be directed towards the family in care of Williamson-Spencer and Penrod Funeral Home in Portland.