Barbara Jean Koby

Barbara Jean Koby (née Green), 82, passed away on May 6, 2026, in Charleston, SC.

Barbara was born on December 15, 1943, in Gary, IN. She graduated from Lew Wallace High School and continued her education at Western Michigan University and Indiana University, where she earned her master’s degree.

Barbara dedicated more than 40 years to teaching English and impacted countless students and fellow educators throughout her career. She was outgoing, witty, and never knew a stranger.

She served as president of the Lake County Historical Society and Kiwanis International for many years and generously supported many charitable causes throughout her life.

Later in life, Barbara moved to Mount Pleasant, SC, to be closer to her family and resided at Merrill Gardens for the last two and a half years, where she formed many meaningful friendships.

Barbara is survived by her daughter, Victoria Waldron (Robert); grandchildren Alyssa Strickland (Sebastian), Ashley Julio (Rigoberto), Olivia Waldron, Derick Henry, Evelyn Waldron, and Landon Waldron; and great-grandson, August Strickland. She is also survived by her cousin and dear friend, Jan Shield; her brother, William Green (Susan); nephews Richard Green (Carlie) and Christopher Green (Mandy); great-nephews Nick, Logan, and Gavin; along with numerous cousins and dear friends.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, William R. Green and Dorothy M. Kurczewski.

A memorial service will be held in Indiana on May 26, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barbara’s memory to St. Jude House or the Lake County Historical Society..

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at mcalister-smith.com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation, 1520 Rifle Range Road, Charleston, SC 29464, (843) 884-3833.