Barbara Ann Lessner's Obituary
Barbara Ann Lessner, 73, passed away on November 14, 2025, at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes, Delaware. Born on July 30, 1952, in Baltimore, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late John and Madeline (Kirsch) Layman.
Barbara spent most of her life in Baltimore, where she graduated from Patapsco High School, Class of 1970. She went on to attend Essex Community College before beginning a 25-year career with the Social Security Administration as a benefits authorizer. Dedicated and hardworking, she retired at the age of 49, embracing a life filled with the things she loved most—time at the beach, creative interior design projects, and meaningful moments with family.
For 20 years, Barbara and her husband, Gary, were devoted participants in Marriage Encounter through their church. Their shared faith and commitment to one another formed the foundation of their marriage and shaped Barbara’s deep love for her family. A woman of unwavering faith, Barbara lived her values with sincerity and strength. She prioritized her children and grandchildren above all else and was known for her loving nature, her moral clarity, and her fierce dedication to protecting and guiding those she loved.
Fifteen years ago, Barbara and Gary moved to Delaware, where she built a close-knit circle of friends and became a cherished part of her community. She also enjoyed spending winters in Florida with Gary, savoring sunshine, rest, and togetherness.
Barbara is preceded in death by her siblings Larry Layman and Kathie Clark.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 54 years, Gary Lessner; her children, Shannon Martin, and Zachary Lessner and Stacey, her daughter-in-law; her beloved grandchildren, Mia, Zoe, Sierra, Ian, and Reese; and her siblings Jeanie, Susie, Chris, and Michael.
A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE 19958, where visitation will begin at 10:00 AM. Interment will be private.
All those unable to attend the services are invited to join the service via live streaming by visiting the following link: http://www.parsellfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/permalink/11963955/LTWebcast .
Please sign the virtual guestbook located on the tribute page.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE DELIVER ALL ARRANGEMENTS BY 5:00 PM ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23RD, 2025, TO OUR LEWES LOCATION.
What’s your fondest memory of Barbara?
What’s a lesson you learned from Barbara?
Share a story where Barbara's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Barbara you’ll never forget.
How did Barbara make you smile?