For Barbara Palau Lipford: Help Us Lay a Fierce and Loving Soul to Rest

Barbara Palau Lipford—Barb to many—passed unexpectedly from natural causes last week. Her body is currently at the Norfolk, VA medical examiner’s office. We urgently need to raise $1,600 to cover her cremation and final arrangements so she can be laid to rest with the dignity and love she gave to so many.

Barbara was a fighter. She stood up for the forgotten and the hurting. She raised her voice for justice, marched for peace, and offered shelter and strength to anyone who needed it—whether human or animal. She was known for her fierce loyalty, her wild humor, her deep compassion, and her unmatched ability to say exactly what needed to be said.

She lived simply, gave endlessly, and stood by those struggling with addiction, abuse, poverty, or grief—because she understood those roads. She walked them herself, and never judged anyone who was just trying to find their way.

Barbara built communities online and off. She showed up in forums, protests, kitchens, and late-night conversations when it mattered most. She made many of us feel less alone. Now it’s our turn to show up for her.

We are asking those who knew Barb - whether in person or through her vibrant online life—to help us honor her memory. Please share this fundraiser widely. Her reach was far greater than one circle can grasp, and we know that somewhere out there are dozens, maybe hundreds, of people whose lives were touched by her.

Any contributions beyond the $1,600 cremation cost will go toward a celebration of her life in early August and support for her family as they navigate this loss.

Barbara had guts. She had grace. She gave without condition. Let’s come together and give her the farewell she deserves.

Please donate if you can, and share this message with anyone who knew Barbara. Help us carry her spirit forward.