Barbara Tevebaugh

Barbara Tevebaugh (née McNichol), 85, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away peacefully on October 31 at home, with her devoted husband by her side.

Barbara was born on January 9, 1941, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Edward and Eleanor McNichol. She grew up in Philadelphia and graduated from Sacred Heart Academy. She went on to earn her BA from the University of Pennsylvania and a master’s degree in counseling from the University of Delaware. Barbara began her career as a social worker at Pennsylvania Hospital, followed by a year working for the Borough of Barnet in London, England, and more than 30 years at Christiana Care. Following her retirement, she continued her commitment to helping others as a volunteer at St. Patrick’s Center. Barbara cared deeply about the underserved, unhoused, and people with disabilities, touching countless lives through her compassion, patience, and unwavering devotion.

Barbara shared 60 wonderful years of marriage with her soulmate, James (Jim) Tevebaugh, and together they raised three children. She was an avid gardener and loved to cook and entertain friends and family, both at home and at their place in Chesapeake City on the Elk River. Barbara’s love of animals spanned her lifetime, from rescuing the family dog, Nicky, to enjoying the companionship of her children’s dogs and cats in her later years. She also enjoyed reading, beating her family and friends by embarrassing margins in Scrabble, and calling out Jeopardy answers long before the contestants could respond.

In addition to her husband, Jim, Barbara is survived by her children, Lee Tevebaugh (Andy Newcombe), David Tevebaugh, and Kate Tevebaugh; and her grandchildren, Graeme Newcombe, Gavin Newcombe, and Sophia Tevebaugh. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Eleanor McNichol; her siblings, MaryEllen, Ed, Joan, and George; and her beloved grandson, Rhys Newcombe.

In keeping with her lifelong commitment to helping others, Barbara chose to donate her body to science, a final act of generosity that will help advance medical education and research. The family will gather privately to honor Barbara’s memory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in her memory to St. Patrick’s Center.