Barbara Jean “Barb” Sowers, 80, of Punta Gorda, Fla., passed away Friday, Oct. 19, 2012, at the Tidewell Hospice House of Port Charlotte, Fla.

She was born May 4, 1932, in Detroit, Mich., to Carl and Luella (nee LaRocque) Sowers.

A career public educator and High School Counselor, Barbara moved with her longtime companion Shirley A. Weaver from their hometown of Livonia, Mich., to Charlotte County, Fla., in 1989, following her retirement. In her youth she was a member of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during the 1953 and 1954 seasons. Barb began her Professional League career with the Muskegon Belles, but played with the Grand Rapids Chicks in their 1953 season and Play-Off Champions title win. Her Professional Baseball career ended with the AGPB League’s demise at the close of the 1954 season.

Barbara is survived by numerous cousins; friends; and special furry companion, Gidgette. She was preceded in death by her loving companion of 45 years, Shirley Ann Weaver, in 2006.

Memorial services will be held in Punta Gorda at a later date to be announced. Burial will be held in Detroit. Memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers, may be made to Tidewell Hospice Inc., 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34238; or the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, to Shirley Burkovich, AAGPBL-PA Treasurer, 67-430 Ovante Road, Cathedral City, CA 92234-8402. Friends may visit online at www.robersonfh.com to sign the memory book and extend condolences to the family.

Arrangements are by Roberson Funeral Homes, Punta Gorda Chapel.