Barbara Blackburn

Barbara C. Blackburn, 87, of Salem, Oregon, formerly of Pleasant Hill, was born September 25, 1920, in Pleasant Hill, the daughter of Fielding B. and Fredda (Harris) Henley. She departed this life Friday, April 18, 2008, at Salem Hospital.

Barbara worked for the State Farm Insurance Company in Salem, retiring in 2001. She was the "World's Fastest Typist" and she held this record in the Guinness book of world records, until they removed typing as a category. She was also a pioneer of the DVORAK key board, and fought diligently to see it listed as an alternative keyboard for typists. She was also a life member of the Pleasant Hill Historical Society.

She was preceded in death by her parents 1 brother Norman Henley.

She is survived by her children Clay and Cheryl Rosch of Salem, Oregon, Sonya and Gary Heard of Salem, James and Lisa Blackburn, of Washington, and Fredda Blackburn of Colorado; 3 Grandchildren Nathan Gile, Brandon Gile, and Skyla Blackburn, of Salem; and 1 brother Conrad and his wife Edith Henley of Pleasant Hill; and sister-in-law Joan Henley, of Pleasant Hill; 4 nephews; other relatives and friends.

Cremation has been accorded. A memorial service was held Thursday, May 1, 2008, at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery Chapel. Mr. Ronald Henley officiated.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Pleasant Hill Historical Society and may be sent in care of the funeral home.