Barbara Lee Smith Crowder

Barbara Lee Smith Crowder, 93, of Eagle, Idaho, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025. Born July 1, 1932, in Kewanee, Illinois, to the late Dale and Alice Smith, she was known for her lifelong commitment to service, her passion for tennis, and her warm, welcoming smile.

Barbara Lee spent her early years moving with her family before living in Idaho, where she graduated from Boise High School in 1950. A gifted athlete, she became Idaho State Singles tennis champion at 16 and later won both the State Singles and Doubles titles. She went on to earn a B.A. in history from Carleton College.

After college, Barbara Lee moved to New York City, where she met her devoted husband of 53 years, R. Perry Crowder. They made their home in Edgemont, New York, where they raised three children. Deeply committed to education and community life, Barbara Lee served as president of the local PTA, spent six years on the Edgemont School Board, including two as president, and held leadership roles with the Scarsdale Adult School and the Edgemont Group on Learning Disabilities, among others. She also served as an elder and committee member at Hitchcock Presbyterian Church.

Upon retirement, Barbara Lee and Perry relocated to Pinehurst, North Carolina, where they spent 16 years enjoying travel, forming lasting friendships, and continuing their cherished annual vacations to Chatham, Massachusetts, and Captiva Island, Florida. These trips became treasured traditions for their children and grandchildren. After Perry’s passing, Barbara Lee moved to Idaho to be closer to her daughter Jean.

Tennis remained central throughout Barbara Lee’s life; she played until age 81 and delighted in introducing the game to generations of family. When she retired her racket, she embraced ping-pong, which brought her great joy into her 90s.

Barbara Lee is survived by her children Jean (Kyle) Murphy, Lynn (David) Porter, and Andrew (Karen) Crowder; four grandchildren, Brett (Carlyn) Murphy, Megan Porter, Caroline Crowder, Kelly Porter, and her great-granddaughter Sloane Murphy. She was preceded in death by her husband Perry Crowder, and her sister, Donna Kay Smith Price. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Paramount Parks of Eagle and Bluebird Hospice for their compassionate care.

A private celebration of her life will be held by the family.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bowman Funeral Parlor of Garden City.