Barbara Ellen Talbot

Barbara “Barby” Talbot, 65, passed away at her home in Menasha, WI on July 22, 2025.

Barby was born on March 31, 1960 to Thomas Talbot and Patricia (Verbrick) Talbot. She graduated from Menasha High School in 1978 and was a proud Menasha resident for most of her life. Barby lived on the east coast during the early years of her marriage to ex-husband Joe Kinney, who remained close to her throughout her life. The years she spent living out east, especially in Maryland, were some of her best. She and Joe were known for opening their home to many, hosting legendary get togethers—most notably, their Labor Day parties, which brought people in from far and wide. Maryland always held a very special spot in her heart. It was here that she welcomed their beloved daughter, Hannelore “Hanne”, into the world.

Barby spent 28 years working as a courier for FedEx, retiring from there in 2014. She loved and was loved by her customers, especially those on her Oshkosh route, which she worked on for several years.

Barby’s friendships meant the world to her. She proudly maintained friendships from childhood, had many close friends from her time at FedEx, and deeply treasured the friends that she made during her time living out East. She never forgot a birthday, was always good for an extra-long hug, and never ended a phone call without saying “I love you”.

Hanne was Barby’s only child, her proudest accomplishment, and the light of her life. They spent many years growing their relationship, and sharing life with her daughter was one of her greatest joys. Barby was especially looking forward to welcoming her first grandchild into the world in just a few months. She was overjoyed about becoming a grandma.

Barby is survived by her daughter, Hannelore (Mark) Kinney, siblings Dan (Jeanne) Talbot, Dorothy (George) Dworshok, Nora (Doug) Kees, Roy “RoyBoy” (Diane) Talbot, Bill (Kathy) Talbot, bonus sister Kathy Bauer, and lifelong best friend Kim (Brian) Holinbeck. She is further survived by many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, godchildren, and countless friends.

She is preceded in death by her father Tom, mother Patsy, and stepdad Don Kuehl.

A celebration of life for Barby will be held at a later date. She didn’t want a funeral, but everyone knew she loved a party full of family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Fox Valley Humane Association in Barby’s honor. Barby was a lover of all animals and deeply loved the many cats she had over the years.

Barby was light and love. She will be remembered by her bright smile, heartfelt generosity, and the endless joy she brought to those around her.