Longtime Oregon Journalist Barbara Sherman Dies at 79

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Barbara Jean Sherman, a longtime journalist who reported on Tigard, Oregon and surrounding communities for over 25 years, died on January 20, 2026 at the age of 79 after a brief illness. Sherman had a distinguished career in newspaper journalism, working as a reporter, editor, and copy editor for various publications in the region.

Why it matters

Sherman was a fixture in the civic life of Tigard and neighboring communities, known and respected by many local political leaders. She was known for her meticulous attention to detail and her passion for reporting on the extraordinary lives of ordinary people in the area.

The details

Sherman began her journalism career in 1982 as a reporter for the Wilsonville Times, eventually becoming the paper's editor. She went on to work for several other local publications, including the Wilsonville Spokesman, Tigard Times, and King City Regal Courier, before her final role reporting for Tigard-Tualatin Life. In addition to her journalism work, Sherman was active in the local community, serving in leadership roles with the King City Lions Club and her homeowners' association.

• Barbara Jean Sherman was born on July 27, 1946 in Portland, Oregon.
• She graduated from South Eugene High School in 1964.
• Sherman began her journalism career in 1982 as a reporter for the Wilsonville Times.
• She died on January 20, 2026 at the age of 79 after a brief illness.
• A Celebration of Life for Sherman will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Summerfield Clubhouse in Tigard, Oregon.

What’s next

Barbara Sherman's cremated remains will be mixed with those of her beloved pets and scattered privately by her son, Patrick Sherman.