Barbara Lynn Sellin
Obituary
Barbara Lynn Sellin passed away on May 16, 2022 in her Los Gatos home, surrounded by her devoted family. Although she was 67 years old, Barbara was the very definition of "young at heart" with her limitless energy and bubbly enthusiasm. She always had a smile on her face and was ready to have fun (which usually involved a glass of champagne). The epitome of the sunny Southern California girl, Barbara was born on February 12, 1955 in Downey to John M. Thompson Jr. and Ivanette (Lilley) Thompson. She relished the fact that she made her debut the same year as her favorite place on earth, Disneyland. Family and friends called her "Barbie," after the doll. She happily held on to that nickname throughout her life, even in her professional career. Barbie was adored and doted on by her older sister, Diane. In 1966 she met her bestie, Claudia, and the two were inseparable from that moment – going so far as to purchase matching blue Volkswagen Beetles, which they frequently drove to Zuma Beach. Barbie graduated in 1973 from Cleveland High School in Reseda, having served as Drill Team President, and voted "Best Smile" by her classmates.
In 1974, Barbie met the love of her life, Stacey Sellin. Seven days after their first date, they got engaged. Their marriage was a true partnership; throughout both the best and worst of times, they had each other. They made their home in Los Gatos – Barbie loved the town and loved showing it off to visitors. She spent her career as an accountant, but that was secondary to her true calling as World's Greatest Mom to her children, Chelsea and Adam. She also served as a mom to their circle of friends, who knew they could always call Barbie looking for advice or just drop by for a chat. Barbie had a way of making everyone feel special, constantly putting others first and going out of her way to be helpful. Her light shined bright, and she will be deeply missed by the many, many people who consider themselves fortunate to have known her. Barbara was predeceased by her daughter, Shelby; she is survived by her husband of 47 years, Stacey, and her children, Chelsea and Adam. Internment at Los Gatos Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Stanford Medicine's Cancer Discovery Fund
Published in Los Gatan · May 23, 2022