Barbara A. Lukeman

Barbara A. Lukeman, a beloved mother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 16th, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on November 7th, 1946, in Akron, Ohio, Barbara spent her final years in Newark, Ohio, where she made a lasting impact on the people around her.

Barbara spent over 30 years as a social worker, specializing in drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Her work was deeply personal. After overcoming her own struggles with alcohol addiction, she dedicated her life to helping others do the same. Barbara was a proud supporter of Alcoholics Anonymous and celebrated more than three decades of sobriety. Her journey and insights were shared through recovery articles she wrote for the Newark Advocate newspaper, offering encouragement and perspective to others on the path to healing.

Barbara was a vibrant and compassionate individual who enjoyed bowling, gardening, and curling up with a good book. She had a gift for writing, a soft spot for stray cats, and a deep love for the people in her life.

Barbara is survived by her loving daughter, Layli Lukeman; her sisters, Linda Doll and Patricia Stemple; her niece, Melissa Martin; her nephew, Michael "Eric" Martin; her great-nephew, Tanner Justice; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Ruth Stemple, and her nephew, Stephen W. Martin.

In honor of Barbara's love for animals and her community, donations can be made to Licking County TNR, an organization dedicated to the welfare of stray and feral cats.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Criss Wagner Hoskinson Funeral and Cremation Service. Barbara's legacy of compassion, resilience, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered