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LENEXA, Mo. -- On Aug. 18, 2026, our beloved mother, sister, friend, wife, and colleague, Barbara Ann Spreadbury, passed away after a long and valiant fight with ovarian cancer.
Barb was born on June 29, 1954, in Norway, the daughter of Irene and Charles Kavalew. She is survived by her daughter, Cassidy Spreadbury and her husband Hunter James; her brothers, David Kavalew (Marilyn) and Dale Kavalew (Susan); Hunter's parents, Cindy and Frank James and the extended family; as well as colleagues and friends who were basically family.
Those who knew Barb remember her for her infectious smile, calm demeanor, great sense of humor, and the ability to always know what to say in the moment, no matter what the moment was. Her personality was even brighter that her vibrant hair, and she brought her unmatched wisdom, grace, and beauty wherever she went, both professionally and personally.
Barbara graduated from Norway High School in 1972 and she completed a undergrad degree in medical records and a MBA at the University of Loyola-Chicago. She spent her career in healthcare quality and safety improvement at organizations like SSM Healthcare in St. Louis, Missouri; Baylor Healthcare System; Children's Health Corporation of America; Safe & Reliable Healthcare; Vizient Inc.; Kaufman Hall; and so many more. While at SSM, Barb oversaw the efforts that led to that organization's becoming the first healthcare recipient of the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in the nation.
In 1996, she married photographer, artist, and balloon pilot Bill Spreadbury. Whenever work and life permitted, Barb enjoyed traveling to numerous places around the world wherever Bill was piloting his balloon. In 1997, Barb and Bill welcomed their daughter, Cassidy, who became the light of both of their lives. Soon Barb added horse show mom to her extensive resume, following Cassidy across the country while she competed with their beloved horses, all while still working full time and managing the household.
Unfortunately, Bill preceded Barb in death in February 2022, only four months after Barb was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Despite her long battle with cancer, Barb continued her work in the healthcare system, remained steadfast in her faith, and devoted to those closest to her, especially Cassidy.
A celebration of her life is being planned for summer 2027 in the Upper Peninsula.
In lieu of flowers, Barb would greatly appreciate if you supported her love of animals and donate to the following rescues: KC Pet Project: https://kcpetproject.org/donate/ or
Animal Welfare Institute: https://awionline.org/donate/.