Barbara Alice Brayton

Barbara Alice “Barb” Brayton, lovingly known to family and friends as “Boo,” died peacefully on July 21, 2026, at The Springs at Grand Park in Billings, Montana, at the age of 70.

Barb was born on January 17, 1956, in Sheridan, Wyoming, where she was raised and graduated from Sheridan High School. She possessed a lifelong love of learning and education that led her to earn an Associate of Science degree in Chemical Technology from Sheridan College in 1977, a Bachelor of Science with Honors in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Wyoming, and later, after changing the direction of her career, a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Wyoming in 2004.

Barb’s professional life reflected both her remarkable intellect and her compassionate nature. She began her career with Honeywell Defense Systems and later worked for Bendix Field Engineering Corporation. From 1987 to 1993, she served as a forensic scientist with the Wyoming State Crime Laboratory, where her analytical skills and dedication to excellence earned the respect of those who worked alongside her. Following her career in forensic science, she pursued her passion for helping others by earning her social work degree and serving as Program Director for Mother Seton Housing, where she found fulfillment in improving the lives of those she served.

Though accomplished professionally, Boo will be remembered most for the quiet way she cared about others. She treasured the companionship of her beloved kitty, whose unconditional love brought her comfort and joy throughout the years. Those closest to her knew her as intelligent, thoughtful, and kind—a woman who preferred sincerity over attention and whose gentle spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Barb is survived by her sisters, Patricia Berry of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and Susan Brayton of Sheridan, Wyoming. She is also survived by her nieces, nephews, and cousins, including Greg Von Krosigk, Todd Von Krosigk, Maria (Paige) Pozos, Angela Kiramis, Scott Berry, Tom Berry, Eric Jackson, Jay Brayton, Mike Brayton, Margie Gray, Jodi Brayton, Liz Brayton, Shannon Brayton, John McBride, Mark Shellinger, Sandy Shellinger, Dan Burnett, Robin Patton, and Cindy Burnett.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Don Brayton and Mary Gwen (Shellinger) Brayton; and by her sisters, Donna Marosok, Kerry Brayton, and Kathy Brayton.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and staff at The Springs at Grand Park and St. John’s United Hospice for the compassion, dignity, and exceptional care they provided to Barb during her final days. Their kindness and support brought comfort not only to Barb but also to her family during a difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a local animal shelter or another charity that reflects Barb’s love for animals and helping others.  Based on her wishes, no funeral service will be held, and a family picnic will occur at a later time.

Although she has left this world, Boo’s quiet kindness, gentle heart, and enduring love for those closest to her will never be forgotten.

Online condolences may be made at www.sheridanfuneral.com. Arrangements are under the care of Sheridan Funeral Home.