On February 15, 1933, Barbara Jean Simpson was born in Oil City to parents, Mary “Mickey” Nichols Simpson and Edward Simpson. She passed from this life on June 13, 2019.

At an early age, Barb showed an interest in music and studied piano and organ with the Benedictine Sisters. While in high school, she was the junior choir organist at St. Stephen Church in Oil City.

In high school, Barb participated in many projects. She was Secretary of her Senior Class, Co-Editor of the yearbook, one of the “Six Aces” of her class, served on the Queen’s Court and was valedictorian. She stayed in close contact and communicated regularly with many of her high school friends. She helped to plan and organize all class reunions and social events.

After graduation from Oil City Senior High School, Barb went to work for Quaker State Oil Refining Corporation in Oil City as the private secretary to the Sales Promotion Manager.

On May 26, 1956, she married her high school sweetheart, best friend, and love of her life, Richard “Dick” Dunlap. They were married for 63 years. After Dick’s tour of duty in the Navy, he opened his Podiatry practice in Oil City where Barb was Office Manager. They worked together for over 41 years, retiring in 2001.

Buying and selling antiques was always a passion for Barb, and she displayed antiques at shows and two shops in Ohio. Her daughters also shared this passion, and they traveled together on numerous “hunting trips.” Her other interests were reading, crossword puzzles and interior decorating.

Barb was a member of the Oil City Arts Council, Venango County Humane Society, Venango County Museum, Colonel Drake Cultural Alliance and the Titusville Council on the Arts and served on the board of the Heritage Society.

She is survived by her husband and three daughters, Kelly (Alan) Preston of Harrisburg, Kim Dunlap of Pittsburgh, and Kristine (Tom) Hall of Butler. She also is survived by her “granddogs” who she loved dearly, Hannah, Callie, Emmie, Oliver, and Payton.

Barb was a member of St. Joseph Church in Oil City. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Reinsel Funeral Home and Crematory. At her request, there will be no visitation.

Memorials may be made in her name to any dog shelter or a charity of one’s choice.