Barbara Ann Handy

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Barbara Ann Handy, who died surrounded by family on June 23rd, 2025 at the age of 77, in Tucson, AZ. Barb was born in Ypsilanti, MI on August 14th, 1947 to Martin and Theresa Wagner. She graduated from Allen Park High School and went on to have a successful life as a great caring mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and wife, and career mostly as a hard-working dedicated employee of Sears Roebuck. She married Brian W. Handy on January 26th, 1968, and they raised two children together, Jeffrey M. Handy and Maureen T. Handy-Thomas (Malek).

Barb did very well in school, had many friends, and played percussion in high school band. After graduation, Barb commuted to Detroit to work alongside her twin sister Betty at Michigan Mortgage and later Sun Oil. Barb tremendously loved family. Family gatherings were always treasured. Barb also enjoyed many years of league bowling with family and friends. She was known for her warmth, generosity, strength, her love of planting flowers and plants and her dedication to her family. She passionately loved all of her many pets she had throughout her life and went to great lengths to make sure they were well taken care of and comfortable.

Later in life Barb married Michael K. Bendz, Jr and eventually retired to Marana, Arizona to be close to her children. There they continued their passion for family, animals and pets. Barb loved watching her many talent oriented and court centric TV shows, and Detroit Tigers baseball.

Barb will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her. She is survived by her two children, Jeff and Maureen, her four grandchildren Brian Thomas, Justine (Alex) Stanhope, James Handy, and Megan Handy, twin sister Betty Berent, brother-in-law Tom Berent, cousins Joyce and Darlene, many nephews and nieces, and her first husband Brian who still participated in family events.

Barb is joining in Heaven her parents, her beloved older brother David Wagner, her sisters-in-law Judi Wagner and Mikkie Peters, and several aunts and uncles.

A celebration of life will be held at a private location on Tuesday, July 8th at 3:30pm. Private invitations will be sent.